The New York State Department of State and several state agencies today encouraged all New Yorkers to Complete the Census on National Census Day, April 1. All New Yorkers should count themselves at the place where they are living and sleeping most of the time as of April 1, 2020.

“With the 2020 Census count well underway, I encourage all New Yorkers to join me on this National Census Day and complete the Census today,” said New York State Secretary of State Rossana Rosado. “Completing the Census is safe and easy, and during this time when we are all practicing social distancing, the Census can be completed from the comfort of your own home. Under the leadership of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, we are helping to ensure every single New Yorker is counted and New York gets its fair share of federal funding, which has never been more important.”

Once every decade, the nation conducts the Census, which is a constitutionally mandated count of every American, regardless of their citizenship status. The decennial census is one of the nation's most important programs. New Yorkers' fair share of federal funds for programs essential to health care, education, emergency planning, housing, economic development and transportation, as well as our congressional representation in Washington, all depends on an accurate and fully counted census response.

Below is key information on the upcoming Census count for all New Yorkers to keep in mind when completing the Census:

Three Ways to Respond. There are three ways to respond to the 2020 Census: online, by phone or by mail. Visit my2020census.gov to complete the Census online or call 1-844-330-2020 to complete the Census by phone. Additional phone numbers for a variety of languages can be found at 2020census.gov. You can also mail in the form you should have received in March from the Census Bureau.

Questions Asked. The Census asks how many people are living in your house as of April 1, 2020. The Census will ask 10 basic questions: name; number of people living or staying in the home on April 1, 2020; whether residence is a house, apartment, or mobile home; telephone number (only to be used if needed for official Census Bureau business); sex; age; date of birth; Hispanic origin; race; relationship with other household members.

The Census will never ask for immigration status, social security numbers, money or donations, anything on behalf of a political party or for your bank or credit card account numbers.

Protecting your Data. The U.S. Census Bureau is bound by law to protect your answers and keep them strictly confidential. In fact, every employee takes an oath to protect your personal information for life. Under Title 13 of the U.S. Code, the Census Bureau cannot release any identifiable information about you, your home, or your immigration status, even to law enforcement agencies. The law ensures that your private data is protected and that your answers cannot be used against you by any government agency or court. The answers you provide are used only to produce statistics.

Avoiding Scams Online: The U.S. Census Bureau does not contact people by email. The use of any website that mentions being affiliated with the U.S. Census should be verified. The easiest way to verify the site is to check if address includes “.gov,” as only official U.S. and state government websites can use “.gov.” Fraudulent sites purporting to be official government service providers may steal personal information.

Reporting Suspected Fraud: If you suspect fraud, call 800-923-8282 to speak with a local Census Bureau representative. If it is determined that the visitor who came to your door does not work for the Census Bureau, contact your local police department.
Official Census information can be found by visiting the U.S. Census Bureau website and by visiting the New York State Census website.

SUNY Chancellor Kristina M. Johnson said, “I ask every New Yorker to take a few minutes today to complete the census. Crucial federal funding for education programs relies on an accurate snapshot of our state population and demographics. If we all do our part, we can unlock the federal funding we need for higher education and other vital services.”

New York State Department of Labor Commissioner Roberta Reardon said, “It is more important than ever that all New York residents be counted in this year’s Census. In order to serve all New Yorkers to the best of our ability we need an accurate picture of our landscape throughout the State and the needs of the populations we serve. New Yorkers can help us do that, by completing their Census forms today, on National Census Day.”

Superintendent of Financial Services Linda A. Lacewell said, “I urge every New Yorker to complete the 2020 Census so that our communities receive their fair share of federal funding for essential services like health care, emergency planning, and economic development. The Census can be completed online, by phone or by mail, and the information collected is kept strictly confidential. Every New Yorker - regardless of citizenship status - deserves to be represented.”

Office of Children and Family Services Commissioner Sheila J. Poole said, “Now more than ever, it is imperative that every child and their caregiver in New York State be counted. We depend on federal funding to support critical programs and services that New Yorkers depend upon each day --- child care, services for blind individuals, child welfare and other programs that serve vulnerable adults, including survivors of domestic violence. All information provided through the Census is confidential.”

New York State Commissioner of Taxation and Finance Michael Schmidt said, “Census 2020 will help determine how federal money benefits you and your neighbors for the next ten years. Just as your state tax dollars support critical funding for valuable public programs and services, ensuring that you’re counted in this year’s Census will help shape the future of our state and local communities.”

Department of Motor Vehicles Commissioner Mark J.F. Schroeder said, “Our communities across this state depend upon a complete and accurate count, especially now—a time when we cannot afford to lose out on critical federal funding. Billions of dollars for our hospitals, schools, infrastructure projects, emergency response, and even our congressional representation are at stake. The census only takes a few minutes to fill out, you can do it from home, and your personal data is protected. I encourage everyone to do their part and make sure all New Yorkers are counted.”

Office of General Services Commissioner RoAnn Destito said, “New York State is depending on all its residents to fill out the 2020 Census so that our State, communities, and schools will receive their fair share of federal resources over the next 10 years. No matter where you live in New York, the results of the 2020 Census will affect the roads you drive on, the education your children receive, and the representation you have in Washington.”

City University of New York Chancellor Félix V. Matos Rodríguez said, “The COVID-19 emergency intensifies the need for federal funding and representation and hammers home the importance of doing our part to ensure that all New Yorkers stand up to be counted in Census 2020. CUNY is proud to help ensure that New York succeeds in this process, even in the face of new challenges presented by the coronavirus. We simply cannot forget the importance of getting all New Yorkers to respond to the census.”

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Now more than ever, it is vitally important that all New Yorkers fill out their census forms. It’s a quick and easy way for everyone to do their part to ensure that New York gets its fair share of resources from the federal government and it is critical to DOT's ability to fulfill our mission to provide New Yorkers with a modern and sustainable transportation network.”

New York State Department of Health Commissioner Dr. Howard Zucker said, “The results of the 2020 U.S. Census helps determine how federal funding will be distributed to New York State in the next 10 years, including for critical emergency preparedness activities during a public health crisis such as a pandemic. Census workers are appropriately practicing social distancing by not going door to door, and you can help by taking the simple steps of participating safely and securely online, by phone or by mail.”

New York State Office for the Aging Acting Director Greg Olsen said, “Even during this difficult time, it is critical that all New Yorkers participate in the 2020 Census. Not only does the Census provide a snapshot of our state and our nation, it helps determine congressional representation, as well as how much federal funding our communities receive for vital projects and services, which will further our efforts as the first age-friendly state to help older adults and people of all ages remain healthy, engaged, and living in their homes and communities of choice.”

New York State Homes and Community Commissioner RuthAnne Visnauskas said, “Today is National Census Day and now more than ever, an accurate count is critical to assuring our state gets the federal resources it needs for the next 10 years for affordable housing, homeownership, and community development programs. Whether you live in a rural, suburban, or urban community—in an apartment, residential facility, house, or manufactured home—your voice matters and your response will help shape New York’s future. Answers are confidential to protect privacy, and you can complete the Census safely and easily online, over the phone, or by mail. Please, stand up and be counted today!”

New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) Commissioner Basil Seggos said, “To ensure New York's environment and communities get their fair share of federal resources, we must all be counted. I encourage all New Yorkers to take the time to be counted in Census 2020. It's quick and easy to do and we owe it to future generations.”

Parks Commissioner Erik Kulleseid said, “An accurate Census count is important to our State Parks and historic sites as Census figures are used by the federal government to allocate important sources of our funding. I encourage all New Yorkers to fill out their Census forms.”

Office of Addiction Services and Support Commissioner Arlene González-Sánchez said, “The census is an important way that federal funding for many services throughout New York State is determined, including funding to support our nation-leading addiction services. Thanks to Governor Cuomo’s ongoing efforts, we are ensuring that every New Yorker is counted, and that the state continues to receive its fair share of funding. It is vital that all New Yorkers accurately complete the census, either online, or by mail or phone, and guarantee they are counted.”

Office of Mental Health Commissioner Dr. Ann Sullivan said, “An accurate and complete census count is critically important for New York because it will help determine how billions of dollars in Federal aid is distributed, including funding for our schools and hospitals. The information you provide is completely confidential, and you can respond online, by phone or by mail. I urge all New Yorkers to participate in the census to ensure our State gets its fair share.”

Office of Temporary and Disability Assistance Commissioner Mike Hein said, “By participating in this once-a-decade population count, all New Yorkers have an opportunity to be a part of history. From its role establishing representation in Congress to determining the level of federal funding coming to our communities, it is especially important that some of our most vulnerable fellow New Yorkers, including marginalized populations, have their voices heard and it has never been easier to do so. I encourage everyone to complete the Census and do their part to make sure New York gets counted.”

Office for People With Developmental Disabilities Commissioner Theodore A. Kastner said, “The phrase ‘strength in numbers’ strongly applies when it comes to the Census. Historically, people with developmental disabilities have been a difficult population to get an accurate count for, so this year we are encouraging people with disabilities, their families and caretakers to take part. Now more than ever, it’s crucial that people with developmental disabilities are counted since this count will impact funding, services and supports for the next decade.”

Division of Human Rights Commissioner Angela Fernandez said, “All New Yorkers, regardless of their citizenship or immigration status, can feel safe to complete the census and count all family and household members living with them today. The only way for New York State to receive its fair share is for everyone to be counted. Answers to the census are made confidential by law and identifiable information will not be shared even with law enforcement agencies. Census results are crucial because they impact federal funding for healthcare, schools, transportation, community resources, and political apportionment.”

New York Power Authority President and CEO Gil C. Quiniones said, “Filling out your census form is an ideal way for New Yorkers to help ensure New York gets its fair share of federal funds, which is more important now than ever. The census can be done on-line or by phone or mail and is quick, easy and safe. Join me and NYPA employees across the state in filling out your census form and do your part to make sure every New Yorker is counted.”

State Agriculture Commissioner Richard A. Ball said, “The Census is critically important, helping to direct to our communities the federal funds that support so many of the services that New Yorkers rely on—education, healthcare and more. Working in coordination with our partners, we are reaching out to our farmers and their workforce to encourage them to complete the Census and remind them that the Census is safe and secure. We need everyone counted.”

New York State Workers’ Compensation Board Chair Clarissa M. Rodriguez said, “This National Census Day, I encourage all New Yorkers to make sure they’re counted. Right now, many workers are staying home to keep themselves and others safe amid a global crisis. Please consider taking 10 minutes to fill out the Census online or by phone. Your answers are a major factor in the federal money that New York receives and could improve the lives of New Yorkers for the next decade.”

Department of Public Service CEO John B. Rhodes said, “An accurate count of all New Yorkers is fundamental to democracy and government in New York, and in the United States. Everybody counts, and it is our job to make sure that we count all New Yorkers.”

New York State Energy and Research Development Authority President and CEO Alicia Barton said, “Fair and accurate political representation is at the core of our democracy, but we can only capture those goals if every individual completes the 2020 Census. These counts create a blueprint for our state and federal representation and also ensure equitable federal funding for the next generation's education. I encourage everyone to make their voice heard and be counted by filling out their Census today.”

Dormitory Authority of the State of New York’s Acting President and CEO Reuben McDaniel III said, “Participating in the Census is one way every New Yorker can take action to help New York get its fair share of federal funding and representation. This is a safe, short and simple process that can be done from home and has an important impact for the entire state. Under the leadership of Governor Cuomo, we are encouraging every New Yorker to get counted.”

Department of Civil Service Acting Commissioner Lola W. Brabham said, “Your response to the 2020 Census is crucial in shaping New York’s future - and on National Census Day, we are encouraging all New Yorkers, including state employees and retirees, to make their voice heard by responding and filling out the Census questionnaire. Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York State is committed to doing all it can to achieve a complete and accurate count in this year’s Census so that we are fairly represented at the federal level and receive the funding needed to keep our communities thriving.”

State Liquor Authority Chairman Vincent Bradley said, “Everyone needs to do their part ensure our diverse voices are heard and every New Yorker is counted in the 2020 Census. Whether you respond online, by phone, or by mail, it takes just a few minutes to ensure our state receives critical funding for priorities including health care, food assistance and infrastructure, in addition to providing critical data for emergency responders to plan and deploy resources during a crisis.”

New York State Council on the Arts Executive Director Mara Manus said, “We urge all of our state’s cultural workers, artists and creatives to participate in this year’s Census. By making sure they are counted, all New Yorkers play an essential role in securing the resources that they, their families, and their communities need – including our arts sector, which is critical to New York’s health and growth.”

Roosevelt Island Operating Corporation President and CEO Susan G. Rosenthal said, “I encourage all Roosevelt Islanders to complete and submit their Census information as soon as possible. Everyone can complete the Census safely and easily from the comfort of your own home. Under the leadership of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo, RIOC is helping to ensure that every Roosevelt Islander is counted so New York State gets the federal funding it needs now more than ever.”

Battery Park City Authority President & CEO B.J. Jones said, “In the midst of our present challenges, it is even more crucial that New Yorkers from Battery Park City to every corner of our state be counted – our future depends on it. I encourage everyone – online, over the phone, or by mail – to safely and securely complete their Census form today.”

Adirondack Park Agency Executive Director Terry Martino said, “Today is #CensusDay and all New Yorkers are encouraged to participate. Accurate census data has a profound impact on communities across the State and especially here in the Adirondack Park. A high response rate from New Yorkers will ensure we receive the federal funding we need to respond to natural disasters, support rural hospitals and improve critical public infrastructure.”

Olympic Regional Development Authority CEO & President Mike Pratt said, “Census data is very important, as the information allows us to make decisions about our operations that affect the communities in which ORDA serves.”

According to the U.S. Census Bureau, New York’s self-response rate is currently at 31.1%.

The New York State Department of State also offers the following resources to help New Yorkers:

Office for New Americans Hotline 1-800-566-7636: The Office for New Americans’ free hotline is available from Monday through Friday from 9AM to 8PM and can help new Americans in more than 200 languages. For more information on the Office for New Americans, visit newamericans.ny.gov. The Office can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSNewAmericans.

DCP Consumer Helpline 1-800-697-1220: The DCP Consumer Helpline offers safe, direct assistance for any New Yorker who believes they have been treated unfairly while in the marketplace. To report suspected Census fraud or scams, call the DCP Consumer Helpline at 800-697-1220, Monday through Friday, 8:30am-4:30pm or visit the DCP website. The Division can also be reached via Twitter at @NYSConsumer.

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