If your business received a 2007 Economic Census form in December, and you returned it on time, the Somerset County Planning Board thanks you.  Businesses that missed the Feb. 12 deadline are urged to seek a 30-day extension and complete the form as soon as possible.

Many very small businesses were not sent a form, and no action is required from them, but businesses that received forms are required by law (Title 13 of the U.S. Code) to respond.

In today's changing economy, timely and relevant facts and figures are essential for sound business and government decision-making.  The Economic Census is the primary benchmark for measuring 96 percent of the gross domestic product. Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke has said, "The Economic Census is indispensable to understanding America's economy."

Businesses can request a 30-day reporting extension, or get help with their form, online at http://business.census.gov or by calling toll-free 1-800-233-6136 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.