Importance of the Data

The 2020 Census will determine congressional representation, inform hundreds of billions in federal funding every year, and provide data that will impact communities for the next decade.

The 2020 Census will provide a snapshot of our nation—who we are, where we live, and so much more.

The results of this once-a-decade count determine the number of seats each state has in the House of Representatives. They are also used to draw congressional and state legislative districts.

Over the next decade, lawmakers, business owners, and many others will use 2020 Census data to make critical decisions. The results will show where communities need new schools, new clinics, new roads, and more services for families, older adults, and children.

The results will also inform how hundreds of billions of dollars in federal funding are allocated to more than 100 programs, including Medicaid, Head Start, block grants for community mental health services, and the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, also known as SNAP.

Did you know…Census results affect planning and funding for infrastructure—including programs for highway planning and construction, Section 8 housing, federal transit, community development, and rural water and waste disposal systems.

Helping Communities… Did you know that census data helps communities respond to natural disasters and secure funding for hospitals and fire departments?

Responding to the Census

The 2020 Census is happening now. You can complete your questionnaire online, by phone, or by mail. Visit my2020census.gov to begin. Or call Area II Agency on Aging at 406-323-1320 for help in completing your Census.

It's Not Too Late: You can still complete the census today.

It's Quick and Easy: The 2020 Census takes just a few moments to complete.