By: Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
The 2026 federal census is underway across Chatham‑Kent, with Statistics Canada completing its final day of access‑letter delivery on Monday. Alongside the usual demographic questions, this year’s census introduces several new and returning items aimed at closing data gaps on diversity and social conditions. Enumerators were expected to finish distributing secure access codes by the end of May 11, ahead of the official census reference day on May 12. When residents are not home, the notices are typically left at the front door.
Although the letter highlights May 12 as the date to complete the questionnaire, Statistics Canada says the date serves as a reference point for answers rather than a strict deadline. Households can still submit their census online after May 12. Anyone who has not received a letter by census day can call the Census Help Line at 1‑833‑852‑2026 or visit census.gc.ca and select “obtain a secure access code” to request one.
Residents who did not receive their secure access code can request a replacement through the agency’s online portal. To issue a new code, Statistics Canada requires a full civic address and phone number to confirm the dwelling. The agency says the process helps prevent duplicate submissions and ensures every household across Chatham‑Kent is counted accurately.
Follow‑up work begins shortly after census day. A reminder letter is sent in mid‑May, with non‑response visits starting in early June and a final reminder issued in July. Enumerators may contact households by phone or in person and must carry official identification showing their name, photo and Statistics Canada credentials. Residents can verify an employee’s identity by calling the Census Help Line.
Participation in the census is mandatory under the Statistics Act, and failure to respond can result in fines of up to $500.
This year’s questionnaire includes new measures to identify people who have experienced homelessness in the past 12 months, as well as questions on general health and sexual orientation for Canadians aged 15 and older. The religion question, normally asked every decade, has also returned early to help track social trends.
About three‑quarters of households will receive the short‑form questionnaire, while one‑quarter will be selected for the long form. Statistics Canada says the results guide federal and provincial decisions on healthcare, housing and infrastructure funding.
The agency notes that census employees will never ask for a social insurance number, banking information or donations. Any request for such details is fraudulent and should be reported to the 2026 Census misinformation watch mailbox. Residents can complete the census online at census.gc.ca.