Kamloops residents slow on completing 2026 census: Statistics Canada

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The census is conducted every five years and it will take most people about 10 minutes to complete as they’re only asked for basic demographical information like age, gender, language and household composition.

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About 25 per cent of households will be asked for more detailed information like education, income and job status.

In a statement, StatsCan said it will begin mailing final reminders to non-responding households with a mailing address, informing residents of their legal obligation to complete the census questionnaire and the possible $500 fine for failing to do so.

Data is used to establish transit routes and determine placement for schools, hospitals and other core services, such as emergency responders.

The census also determines how the federal government allocates tax funding to municipalities.

“While completing the census is required by law under the Statistics Act, Statistics Canada’s priority is the successful collection of data rather than the pursuit of penalties. No fines have been issued at this time nor will they until final reminders have been distributed and collection activities have ended,” said StatsCan officials.

“Once that is done, Statistics Canada can refer cases to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) to initiate summary conviction proceedings against the small number of persons who refused to complete a census questionnaire.”

You can still complete your census by working with StatsCan’s field teams when they come to your door, filling it online using your 16-digit access code, calling the Census Help Line at 1-833-852-2026 and working with an agent (you can call 1-833-830-3109 for hearing/speech impaired service), or by mailing the completed paper questionnaire if one was dropped off at your home.

Legitimate calls from census takers will show “GOC / GDC” in the caller ID and field teams will carry official photo ID cards, which all residents have a right to see upon request.