"I'm from the government and I'm here to help!"

Remember that old opening line from many jokes?  This time, it's for real.

Sometime this spring, someone might be knocking on your door saying just that.  It will probably be a worker from the US Census Bureau.  Every 10 years, the Constitution mandates that all citizens must be counted.  This is very important, because population count and distribution determines all kinds of things, including how much money gets allocated from the federal government to local governments, how many and where Congressmen and Congresswomen there will be, and it can set political boundaries.  It also helps the government determine the needs of the population and how to distribute assistance.  In short, the 2010 Census is a portrait of America.

Participation in the 2010 Census isn't just important-it's mandatory.

Forms will be mailed to all households in March of 2010.  If you fill out and return the simple 10-question form by Census Day (April 1, 2010), you are finished with the 2010 Census!

On the other hand, if you wish to experience that "knock on the door", simply fail to return your form.  From April until July of 2010, census workers will visit homes which failed to return the forms.

If you do get a visit, what must you do, and more importantly what should you NOT do?

The census workers must present you with picture identification, and have a hand-held data collection device.  You must, by law, answer all 10 of their legitimate questions such as names, ages and occupations of all residents.  You are NOT required, and SHOULD NOT, give out social security numbers, banking information, or other financial data.  Consider it a red flag if information such as this is solicited.  You are also NOT required to permit the worker to enter your premises.

No census information will be collected via the internet, email, or over the phone.  Attempts to do so may indicate an Identity Theft attempt.  Attempts to ask unauthorized questions concerning social security, banking or financial data may also indicate an Identity Theft attempt.  Attempts to enter you home may be an effort to "case" your valuables for a future robbery attempt.  In summary, be smart, be aware and be wary.

What should you do if questions or situations such as this are encountered?

Simply decline the request, refuse entry to your home, and report the incident to law enforcement.  It is our civic duty to provide the necessary information, but it is also our responsibility to stop illegal scams.

For more information, contact the U.S. Census Bureau online at http://2010.census.gov or call Seniors Vs Crime at either of our offices in The Villages at (352) 753-7775 or (352) 753-2799, Extension 4253.