Received a Census Survey? Make sure to complete it, or risk a fine

AUSTIN (KXAN) — A KXAN viewer reached out to the station after receiving a mailing from the U.S. Census Bureau. Unsure what to do, that viewer asked for help.

"We have received mailings from the US Census Bureau and the statement that our participation is required. Would like to know why the Census Bureau is sending these and is our participation really required," asked the viewer in an email.

The U.S. Constitution orders the federal government to conduct a census of the population. The results are used to determine the number of seats in the House of Representatives, how many Electoral College votes each state gets, and is used in research.

While the next Census isn't until 2030, the agency sends out other mailers in advance to help plan for that task.

"The 2024 National Census Survey will provide insight into how people engage with the online questionnaire and the invitation materials they receive in the mail," the agency's website reads. "This survey is being conducted as part of a small-scale testing program aimed at gathering initial data about proposed enhancements for the 2030 Census design."

If you received one of these mailers, you must complete the survey by Oct. 31. Failure to do so could lead to a $100 fine, and sending false answers could mean a $500 fine.