About 64 million households across the nation have been mailed a paper questionnaire as the U.S. Census Bureau continues to ensure responding to the Census is easier than ever. As of April 12, 48.1% of the nation’s households have responded to the 2020 Census. The remaining households will receive a paper questionnaire starting April 8.

While nearly half of all households have responded online to the 2020 Census, some may prefer to receive a paper questionnaire. About 22% of the country received a paper form at the beginning of the Census.

Some areas where Census takers were originally going to hand-deliver forms in person will now receive a letter in the mail from the Census Bureau reminding them to participate.

Even if households don’t receive a letter in the mail, the Census Bureau will drop off a census invitation and paper form as soon as it is safe to do so. Census takers will also follow up with all households that do not respond on their own.

Households receiving the paper questionnaire can still respond online or by phone, or they can return it by mail in the enclosed envelope. When you respond online, use the Census ID from the letter or provide your address.

The public should respond for the number of people living at that address as of April 1. Responding now to the 2020 Census will minimize the need for a Census taker to follow up and visit your home in person later this year.