2026 Census Test
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About the Test
The 2026 Census Test is the U.S. Census Bureau's first major opportunity to try out new tools and methods in select locations around the United States. It will help us improve how we will count everyone in the country in the 2030 Census.
It is the first of two major on-the-ground tests we conduct in preparation for the 2030 Census.
The public will start responding to the test in March 2026. You will be able to respond online, by phone or by mail. In some areas, census takers will visit homes to conduct the count in person.
Test Locations
We are conducting the test in these six locations, along with a nationally representative self-response testing component.
Nationwide Self-Response Testing
In addition to the test activities in the six sites, the 2026 Census Test includes a separate national sample. We will mail materials to this nationally representative sample of households, inviting them to respond to the test online, by phone or by mail.
This builds upon the Census Bureau’s ongoing small-scale testing.
Important Dates
- October 6, 2025 – Summer 2026: Outreach is conducted to spread awareness about the test and encourage the public to respond.
- October 6, 2025: Applications open for temporary census jobs in test locations.
- March 2026: Public begins responding to the test online, by phone, or by mail.
- April 1, 2026, Census Day: Public is asked to respond to the test based on where they live as of this date.
- Summer 2026: 2026 Census Test concludes.
What to Expect
- Who is included? Households in the test site locations and selected households across the nation will receive an invitation to participate.
- How to respond? You can complete the census test online, by phone or by mail.
- Time commitment? Participating in the 2026 Census Test only takes a few minutes.
Why Your Participation Matters
If you were selected to participate, your response is important. The Census Bureau is testing new enhancements and innovations that may be used in the 2030 Census. By taking part, you help us understand what works well and what needs to be improved.
Each response we receive guides us in making the census easier and more accurate and efficient. Your participation ensures we can build a better census for the future.
Privacy and Confidentiality
The Census Bureau is legally obligated to protect the privacy and confidentiality of your information. Individual responses are kept confidential and cannot be used to identify individuals or businesses. The Census Bureau only uses your responses for statistical purposes.