Are you registered to vote? Have you sent in your ballot? If not, don’t worry! There are still several days left before Election Day. In fact, if you’re a first-time voter or need a refresher on the voting process, here’s what you need to know about voting laws:
The deadline to register varies from state to state
The deadline to register varies from state to state. In some states it’s as early as 30 days prior to the election and in others it’s as late as the day before or even on election day. The majority of states require you to register by mail or in person, so be sure to check your local regulations regarding registration deadlines and requirements.
Some states allow same-day registration while others have extended dates allowing you to register up until 5 p.m. on Election Day itself. If you’ve missed these specific deadlines, don’t worry you can still request an absentee ballot instead.
For those who wish not only vote but also help register their fellow citizens, there are several organizations that donate time and resources toward helping increase voter turnout among underrepresented groups such as minorities, young adults and felons who have been convicted of minor offenses like drug possession charges that shouldn’t prevent them from exercising their civic duty.
Make sure your voter registration information is up to date, and double check that you’re registered before the deadline.
Registering to vote is quick and easy, and you can do it online in most states. You may also be able to register at the polls on Election Day if your state allows same-day registration.
Most people who are eligible to vote have already registered but it’s still important to double check that you’re on the rolls before the deadline arrives. If you move or change your name, be sure to update your voter registration as soon as possible so that you don’t miss out on casting a ballot. And if there’s any doubt about whether or not you’ve registered, contact your local election officials directly for assistance with finding out where you should be listed.
Check your state’s voting laws ahead of time, especially if you’re mailing in your ballot.
If you’re mailing in your ballot, make sure you know how to do so. Some states allow people to send their ballot through email or fax, but others require physical delivery of the completed document. If you are mailing it in, double-check that you have enough postage on the envelope or package and that you sent it with enough time for it to arrive before Election Day.