How to Vote Using the Federal Services Ballot

Have your vote counted on Election Day, even if you're in another part of the world that day. The Federal Services Voting Assistance Program allows qualified voters to vote absentee while away from their precincts. Several close elections demonstrate that every vote counts, even those ballots cast in absence.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Apply to vote via a federal services ballot at your election commission office. Fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA SF-76) completely and include the address of where you want the ballot to go.
2. Receive your federal services ballot. Read the instructions that come with ballot. Follow the instructions thoroughly to ensure that your vote is counted on Election Day.
3. Read the vote related instructions that come with your federal services ballot. Review the ballot thoroughly to make sure you know which options goes with which candidate. Make your selections carefully. Punch the selection hole through completely, removing any chads if necessary.
4. Review your options. Mail the completed ballot back in the federal services ballot return envelope provided. Go through the pre mailing checklist they give you. Get another registered voter to sign for you as a witness. Have proper postage--even if you're military mailing from the combat zone.
5. Mail your federal services ballot back to your election committee as soon as possible.