Starting in March 2010 census forms will be delivered to every residence in the United States and Puerto Rico.  The form will have 10 short questions and a postage-paid return envelope.  The data collected will help communities receive federal funds for community services such as hospitals, schools and emergency services.

Beginning in April and continuing through July 2010, U.S. Census takers will begin visiting residents who did not mail back the form.  The U.S. Census counts every resident in the United States, and is required by the Constitution to take place every 10 years.  The Census Bureau advises people to be cooperative, but cautious, so you will not become a victim of fraud or identity theft.  The first phase of the census will involve workers verifying the addresses of households across the country.  Census workers may only contact you by telephone, mail, or in person at home.  They will not contact you through the internet or by e-mail.  The Bureau advises never to click on any link or open any attachment in an e-mail purported to be from the U.S. Census Bureau.

Door-to-door census workers will only verify address information and verify how many people live at your address.  Do not give out your Social Security number, credit card or banking information to anyone.  While the Census Bureau might ask for basic financial information, such as salary range, you are not required to provide this information.

If a U.S. Census worker knocks on your door, they will have a badge, a handheld device, a Census Bureau canvas bag and a confidentiality notice.  We recommend you ask to see the badge, write down their name, and make sure the worker has the other equipment before answering any questions.

To avoid the possibility of a home visit, return your completed 2010 Census Form as soon as it is received.   For more advice on protecting your privacy and avoiding identity theft and fraud, visit the Census Bureau website at http://2010.census.gov.