Election season is upon us, and before long it will be time to vote in this year's general election. Are you registered to vote? Have you checked your registration status? Wondering if you can vote by mail? Read on for answers to these questions and more.
Who is eligible to vote?
You can vote in U.S. federal, state, and local elections if you:
Are a U.S. citizen
Meet your state’s residency requirements
Are 18 years old on or before Election Day
Are registered to vote by your state's voter registration deadline.
How do I register to vote?
The process to register varies by state. Click here to select your state and find more information on how to register specific to where you live!
Where do I check my voter registration?
Even if you've already registered, it is important to check your current registration for accuracy and to make sure it is still up-to-date.
You must check your registration through the state in which you are registered to vote, as each state has its own guidelines. You can contact your local elections office, or click here to search for more information by state.
How do I make changes to my voter registration?
If you change your name, move to a new city or state, or even decide to change your political affiliation, you can check your registration here and find out more about how to make changes that ensure your ability to vote in the next election will not be affected!
What information do I need to register?
Requirements vary by state, so check here for details based on where you live.
When is the deadline to register?
Each state has its own voter registration deadline. You can check your state’s deadline by using the U.S. Vote Foundation’s website.
Do I have to vote in person?
Many states allow you to vote by mail with certain guidelines and provisions, although there is online voting is not allowed in the United States.
How do I vote if I am a college student or military member?
As a college student, you can vote either in your hometown or in the city where you attend college, depending on your state’s rules. You may decide based on a few factors:
Which location is more convenient for you?
Who is on the ballot in each place?
Are there local policies or particular issues that are important to you in either place?
Find more information here to make sure you are prepared before Election Day!
If you are a member of the military living outside your voting residence, you can request an absentee ballot. This allows you to vote by mail, although many states require a valid excuse for not voting in-person. Find out more about rules for absentee voting for members of the military here.
Who else can vote by absentee ballot?
If you are a United States citizen who previously lived in the U.S. but are now living outside the country, you can request an absentee ballot by filling out a Federal Post Card Application. Your state must then send your ballot to you at least 45 days before the election. It is a good idea to submit your FPCA by August 1 for the general election in November.
Is absentee voting the same as voting by mail?
Generally, voting by mail is the same as absentee voting. State rules regarding voting by mail vary. Check Can I Vote and choose your state from the dropdown menu to view your state’s requirements for voting by mail.
How do I vote if I am disabled or have special needs?
The Americans With Disabilities Act, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, and the Voting Accessibility for the Elderly and Handicapped Act of 1984 all help ensure no one is prevented from exercising their right to vote. Again, while each state has its own rules, general information about voting if you are disabled, elderly, or have special needs can be found here.
Where can I find more information about voting?
If you have further questions about the voter registration process, visit the Secretary of State website for your state, your local elections office, or helpful websites such as VOTE411, USA.gov, or the U.S. Election Assistance Commission.
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