Vote Absentee–Like a Pro

By Beka Dychtwald

It’s never too early to make your voting plan–especially if you want to vote absentee. If, like me, you won’t be home to cast your ballot on Election Day, absentee voting allows you to still perform your civic duty! Whether it’s your first time voting absentee or your first time voting in general, here are five easy steps to get you voting absentee like a pro:

1. Register to vote

We can’t say it enough! Registering to vote–and doing it early–is crucial to making your voice heard this election season. There are many ways to register–you might even be registered already. You can check your voter registration status, and–of course–register to vote at https://vote.gov/, on your state’s website ([yourstate].gov), or even at the DMV (thank you, Motor Voter Act!). 

2. Check your state’s registration period

Each state has its own timeline for voter registration, and that includes absentee voting. The first step is to know when registration opens, when your ballot should arrive, and when you need to send it in! You can check your state’s deadlines here. 

3. Request your ballot

Head to your state’s website and sign up to request an absentee ballot. The steps are pretty simple: just have your home state’s driver’s license, your social security number, and your address handy. To start the request for an absentee ballot, follow the instructions here. 

PS: Once you request your absentee ballot, you may be able to track it on your state’s website or here. The level of ballot tracking depends on state availability and can range from updates for a ballot-by-mail application to notifications for completed ballot delivery. 

4. Research, research, research

You’re registered, but that doesn’t mean your job is done. It’s time to lock in and research who–and what–is going to be on the ballot. From the presidential candidates to your state and local officials to important amendments to your state and county constitutions, you’ll be able to share your perspective on a lot of things by voting! I know, that sounds like a lot, but take it step by step. Explore this Build Your Ballot tool from Vote411 to get started, then revisit our webinar How to Stay Informed This Election Season to create your voting game plan.

5. Vote!

Remember to mark your calendar for when you need to send your ballot in–and make sure to send it on time! Most states will tell you the date your ballot needs to be postmarked by, which may be as late as Election Day itself. Fill out your ballot with confidence, make sure you have your stamps close by* (so old fashioned, I know), and think about other ways to stay active in your community even after sending in your ballot: becoming a local poll worker, rallying your community to vote, supporting a candidate you feel strongly about, considering elected leadership yourself…There are myriad ways to stay involved! Finally, enjoy feeling a little less stressed knowing you voted ahead of the game. 

*Some states have paid postage on ballots, but it’s always good to be prepared!

PS: while you don’t get an I Voted sticker this year, you can still share the joy with these creative I Voted stickers.