The census is a once-in-a-decade survey that gives us the most accurate estimate of all the people and households in England and Wales.
It has been carried out every decade since 1801, with the exception of 1941.
It will be the first run predominantly online, with households receiving a letter with a unique access code, allowing them to complete the questionnaire on their computers, phones or tablets.
Census day will be on Sunday 21 March 2021, but households across the country will receive letters with online codes allowing them to take part from early March.
The census will include questions about your sex, age, work, health, education, household size and ethnicity.
And, for the first time, there will be a question asking people whether they have served in the armed forces, as well as voluntary questions for those aged 16 and over on sexual orientation and gender identity.
Sandwell Council Deputy Leader, Councillor Maria Crompton, added: “The census helps us understand what Sandwell needs now and what it’s likely to need in the future. The information it collects helps plan and fund services in your area. This could include transport, education and healthcare”.
You must complete the census by law. Results will be available within 12 months, although personal records will be locked away for 100 years, kept safe for future generations.
