I have used census lists in the past to research family genealogy, and was grateful it was available.

I understand why they have a census, but during the last census I was working out of town and had a huge problem with them.

I have no problem giving info on whether I have a job, what I do, a general figure as to how much I make, how many people live here, etc BUT:

I got hit with the long form of the census, mailed to me since I wasn't home when they came. It was page after page after page of intrusive questions. It was waaaaaaaaaay more info than I was willing to give. I avoided the guy who came back at least ten times, as if he had the plague or swine flu. I didn't answer the huge questionnaire.

I waited until I was at work at my second job out of town and a guy came by and I reported the minimal info. They gave up after I told them I already answered the other guy.


I have no problem with the short form but I am NOT giving them any of the extra info that they asked for. It's none of their freakin' business and I don't care what they threaten me with.