Residents could face a $5,000 fine if they fail to fill out a random U.S. Census Bureau survey, which will be used to determine community needs.

Nearly 12,000 residents in Hawaii are expected to receive, or have received, the American Community Survey this year. The form, which is different from the Decennial Census, is sent to residents year-round and asks questions about income, socioeconomic status, transportation and family.

Reminder letters will be sent to the household if residents fail to complete and submit the form. Calls by a representative and a visit to the home will follow.

“It’s mandatory,” said Tommy Randle, of the bureau, noting the survey helps with demographic information and where to allocate resources such as highway improvements, school programs and military benefits. Questions on the form are intrusive but necessary, he said.

About 3 million households will receive the random survey across the country.

Skeptical residents can call the U.S. Census Bureau at 818-717-5820 to verify the legitimacy of the form, which is numbered. The bureau also can verify the employment of representatives who visit the household.

(Correction: A previous version of this story had an incorrect figure for the fine.)