U.S. Census carrying on with new online option

The U.S. Census is still in full swing despite national shutdowns to combat COVID-19, with the option for anyone to file online available for the first time.

Census letters began arriving March 12, with national Census Day taking place April 1. If you haven't filed already, the self-response phase for this year has been extended until Aug. 14.

All household Census visits have been suspended until April 1 and most non-essential visits will be limited to phone calls. Door-to-door visits to non-responders are still on, but have been pushed back to begin on May 7 and go to Aug. 14.

While Census officials have advised everyone to file online via a personal computer, laptop, tablet or even smart phone as soon as possible, it’s still possible to file via phone or return mail.

Those having trouble can look for community workshops through the Mobile Questionnaire Assistance program, which will begin popping up in communities from April 13 to Aug. 14, though availability may be changed pending developments in COVID-19.

Members of the Roosevelt and Curry county census committees did not immediately return requests for information about local efforts.

County Manager Lance Pyle said during a special commission meeting Friday that the turnout in Curry County has been good so far, but anyone who hasn't filed yet is encouraged to do so as soon as possible.

As of Friday, the Census website reported that 26.1 percent of Clovis and 22.9 percent of Curry County had reported so far. Portales has a 21.4 percent self-response rate, while Roosevelt County has a 20.4 percent rate. All of New Mexico currently has a 20.4 percent response rate.

All dates will be subject to change and you can keep up to date by visiting the official Census website.

Information: 2020Census.gov or call 301-763-3030.