Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Privacy
Isn't this information already available from other government records?
The census is the only source of detailed, small-area statistics. In developing the content for the census, all questions are carefully designed to meet important information requirements that cannot be satisfied from any other source, including other government departments or records.
Why do you need all this personal information?
The census collects detailed economic, cultural and social information on everyone living in Canada. This information is used by all levels of government, academics, businesses and others to make many important decisions affecting our daily life — such as where we need schools; homes for senior citizens; fire, police and emergency services; roads or bus routes; and new types of social services.
Why do pensioners and retired people have to answer income questions?
These questions cover all types of income whether from employment income, or investments, pensions and interest. This information, from pensioners and retirees, is as important as other groups in determining the economic well-being of Canadians.
If a person does not want to list their income information on the questionnaire, question 51 now asks permission for Statistics Canada to access tax information directly from the Canada Revenue Agency. This will only be done if a “yes” answer is provided to question 51.
What are question 8 in the Short Form and question 53 in the Long Form?
Question 8 in the Short Form and Question 53 in the Long Form are the same question. This question will give Canadians the ability to decide whether they want their personal census information publicly released for historical and genealogical research after 92 years. This change is in keeping with the privacy principle that everyone has the right to decide how their personal information will be used.
For those who give explicit permission, Statistics Canada will transfer their information to Library and Archives Canada in 2098, which in turn, will make it publicly available. For those who do not give permission, their personal information will not be transferred.
