Fighting 2020 Census Rumors

The Census Bureau has finished collecting responses for the 2020 Census. However, you may still hear from us as we measure the accuracy of the count via our Post Enumeration Survey, release the results, and conduct additional surveys.

Use this page to learn about how the U.S. Census Bureau's Trust & Safety Team protected the 2020 Census count by reporting inaccurate, suspicious, and fraudulent information circulating online.

Setting the Record Straight

Did the 2020 Census ask about citizenship status?

No. The 2020 Census did not ask whether you or anyone in your home is a U.S. citizen.

Were noncitizens counted in the census?

Yes. The 2020 Census counted everyone living in the country, including noncitizens.
 

Can my answers be shared with law enforcement or used against me?

No. The law prevents the Census Bureau from sharing your information with law enforcement or immigration enforcement. Your answers do not affect your eligibility for government benefits—and they cannot be used against you by any government agency or court in any way. Your answers are used only to create statistics about our country. The Census Bureau is bound by Title 13 of the U.S. Code to protect your personal information—every answer, to every question—and keep it strictly confidential.
 

What information is shared with the public?

After the Census Bureau finishes processing responses to the 2020 Census, we release anonymous population and demographic data for communities, states, and the country as a whole.
 

Will my answers affect my eligibility for government benefits?

No. Your answers do not affect your eligibility for any government benefits. Similarly, your census responses do not affect your eligibility to vote. The answers you provide are used only to produce statistics.

Checking the Facts