Why does the Census ask for Personal Information?

The Census collects some personal information as a means to verify identity. Accuracy is critical for the Census, and without having a means to identify those responding, the Census would have now way to ensure people are not being double counted or even know if they actually have a complete count. Furthermore, since it is a legal responsibility of residents to respond to the Census (13 U.S. Code § 221), there must be a way to verify citizens have completed that legal responsibility. The Census has prepared extensive measures to keep your information secure and private, and your name and other personal information will never be released, even to other government agencies; by law the Census is forbidden to do so.