May 12 is Census Day in Canada.

Not filing the census on time can lead to fines.

Here's what you need to know.

The census is done every five years by law.

Canadians must complete their census questionnaire by law.

Census questionnaires were sent out in early May.

Canadians are encouraged to complete their census questionnaire as soon as possible.

Census Day is a reference point for answers.

The census results will be based on May 12, 2026.

The spring census helps collection procedures run smoothly.

Not completing the census can mean a fine of up to $500.

Refusing to submit records can mean a fine of up to $1,000.

The threat of jail time was removed in 2017.

The penalty for not completing the census is supported by law.

The law says people must provide accurate information.

Households that refuse to provide records can face stiffer penalties.

The law explains penalties for obstructing census workers.

Statistics Canada will send reminders to households that haven't completed the census.

Households that haven't completed the census will get a reminder letter.

Statistics Canada will follow up with households that haven't completed the census.

The census is important for the government to monitor Canada's changes.

Most households will get the short-form census questionnaire.

The Census of Agriculture uses the same questionnaire for all farms.

Census data is used for election boundaries, business development, and more.

The census results will be made public in about 18 months.

Statistics Canada aims to release census data quickly.

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