ACS Methods Panel

Frequently Asked
Questions

www.census.gov/acs/www
1-800-354-7271

AMERICAN
COMMUNITY
SURVEY

American
Community
Survey
Si necesita ayuda para completar su cuestionario,
llame sin cargo alguno al: 1-877-833-5625

U.S. Department of Commerce
Economics and Statistics Administration
U.S. CENSUS BUREAU

ACS-10SM(2012)
(5-11)

Frequently Asked Questions
What is the American Community Survey?
The American Community Survey collects information
about population and housing characteristics for the
nation, states, cities, counties, metropolitan areas, and
communities on a continuous basis. Based on the
American Community Survey, the Census Bureau can
provide up-to-date data about our rapidly changing
country more often than once every 10 years when the
census is conducted.

How do I benefit by answering the
American Community Survey?
Communities need data about the well-being of children,
families, and the older population to provide services to
them. By responding to the American Community Survey
questionnaire, you are helping your community to
establish goals, identify problems and solutions, and
measure the performance of programs.
The data also are used to decide where to locate new
highways, schools, hospitals, and community centers; to
show a large corporation that a town has the workforce
the company needs; and in many other ways.

Do I have to answer the questions on the
American Community Survey?

Will the Census Bureau keep my
information confidential?

Yes. Your response to this survey is required by law
(Title 13, U.S. Code, Sections 141 and 193). Title 13, as
changed by Title 18, imposes a penalty for not
responding. We estimate this survey will take about 38
minutes to complete.

Yes. All of the information the Census Bureau collects
for this survey about you and your household is
confidential by law (Title 13, U.S. Code, Section 9). By
law, every Census Bureau employee—including the
Director as well as every field representative—has taken
an oath and is subject to a jail term, a fine, or both if he
or she discloses ANY information that could identify you
or your household.

How will the Census Bureau use the
information that I provide?
The Census Bureau can use the information you provide
for statistical purposes only and cannot publish or release
information that would identify you and your household.
Your information will be used in combination with
information from other households to produce data for
your community. Similar data will be produced for
communities across the United States.
We may combine your answers with information that
you gave to other agencies to enhance the statistical
uses of these data. This information will be given the
same protections as your survey information. Based on
the information that you provide, you may be asked to
participate in other Census Bureau surveys that are
voluntary.

Where can I find more information about
the American Community Survey or get
assistance?
You may visit our Web site
or call 1-800-354-7271 if you need assistance or more
information.