The United States census for 2020 is around the corner. The city of Garland’s allotment of money for federal programs and its government representation are dependent on the count of its residents. The census is an official count of the U.S. population and households.
There are several ways to complete the one-page form: online, mail or by phone. It is provided in English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese, Korean, Russian, Arabic, Tagalog, Polish, French, Japanese, Portuguese and Haitian Creole.
How does the census impact me and my community?
- It’s about Garland getting its share of $675 billion per year in federal funds spent on schools, hospitals, roads, public works and other vital programs. Census data determines how these funds are spent, supporting your state, county and community.
- Businesses use census data to decide where to build factories, offices and stores, which creates jobs.
- Local governments use the census for public safety and emergency preparedness.
- Every 10 years, the results of the census are used to reapportion the House of Representatives, determining how many seats Texas receives.
- After each census, state officials use the results to redraw the boundaries (redistricting) of their congressional and state legislative districts, adapting to population shifts.
Your data is confidential. Federal law protects your census responses. Your answers can only be used to produce statistics. By law, the U.S. Census Bureau cannot share your information with immigration enforcement agencies, law enforcement agencies or allow it to be used to determine your eligibility for government benefits. Data is protected for 72 years.
Dates to know:
- March 12-20: An invitation will be sent, inviting you to respond online.
- March 16-24: A reminder letter will be mailed.
- March 26-April 3: A reminder postcard will be mailed.
- April 1: 2020 census begins.
- April 8-16: A reminder letter and paper questionnaire will be sent.
- April 20-27: A final postcard will be sent before an in-person follow-up.