How to Order an Absentee ballot

If you are a college student, traveler, disabled person or someone serving in the military, there’s no reason to miss your opportunity to vote in an election. If you are a registered voter, read on to learn how to order an absentee ballot.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Apply for an absentee ballot by checking with your state’s Board of Elections. Most states will permit you to download and print an application for an absentee ballot. Fill it out with your information and return it to the Board of Elections. You can also apply in writing by submitting a letter to the Board of Elections. Make sure you specify where you live and what elections you intend to vote in. Sign any letter you submit.

2. Be aware of the deadlines for applying for an absentee ballot. While most states give you plenty of time to get your application in, the sooner you do so, the better, particularly if you attend school out of state. Remember that you will then have to wait for the application to be processed before you receive your actual ballot.

3. Visit the Overseas Vote Foundation website or the Federal Voting Assistance Program for information about registering and voting if you are a member of the military serving overseas or a U.S. citizen or military dependent living overseas. See the Resources section below for a link.

4. Check your mail often, especially in the fall, for your actual absentee ballot. Absentee ballots, particularly for a general election, are generally mailed out about three weeks before the election.

5. Read your absentee ballot carefully before voting. If both sides are printed, be sure to read both sides. To record your vote, you will be asked to completely fill in the oval to the left of your choice. Use only a No. 2 pencil to fill in your ballot.

6. Mail or hand-deliver the absentee ballot back to your hometown elections office that sent it. In most states, you will be required to get your ballot postmarked before the close of the polls on election day. Many state require overseas voters to postmark their ballots by the day before the election. Some states will allow you to return your ballot up to 10 days after the election, but be sure to check the rules for your home state. Don’t sign the ballot.

7. Visit your Board of Elections office two or three weeks before the election if you are able to cast your ballot in person before election day. In some states, you can apply for your absentee ballot and cast your vote in one visit.

Tips & Warnings

• If you're a college student, check your college website for information about voting and casting absentee ballots. Most colleges are extremely helpful to students who need voting information.
• Remember that you can only vote for the number of people or propositions specified on the absentee ballot, although you can vote for fewer people or propositions than specified.