Retrieve Census Records

The Federal Population Census began in 1790 and is renewed every 10 years. All census information is made available for public access under the Freedom of Information Act. You can usually obtain official copies of census records by following these steps:

STEP 1: Download this form. Click Here.

STEP 2: Fill out the application. The application is broken into three sections:

                        Section A: Identification information about the census record you are looking for.

                        Section B: For the National Archives Staff to fill out. Continue to Section C.

                        Section C: Fill out your preferred method of payment and mailing information.

STEP 3: Print and mail the application to the address provided on page 1.

Delivery:

To receive your census records you must be able to fill out blocks 1-7 (and 8, when applicable). Make sure to provide your mailing address as the National Archives destroys any requests missing return information. Allow up to 90 days for processing of all census record orders.

Other Useful Census Records Resources Include:

U.S. Census Bureau - The Census Bureau is the leading source of statistical information on the nation's economy and population.

U.S. Census GenWeb Project - US GenWeb volunteers coordinated a U.S. census transcription initiative to provide free access to census research.

National Archives and Record Administration - The NARA provides an introductory guide on gathering census records for genealogy research purposes.

State Archives Offices - A directory of state level archives offices, complete with web links and address information.