How to preview your ballot online before you vote in the US midterm elections 2026, skip all the guesswork at the polling place, and go in prepared

Going to the polls without knowing what will be, on your ballot can mean spending time trying to figure things out at the last minute. For the 2026 US midterm elections voters can preview their ballot check the candidates and review ballot measures before heading out to vote. A little preparation can make the voting process much easier. The information is sourced from League of Women Voters and the official website of United States Government.

The November 3, 2026, General Election includes federal, state and local contests, although the exact races and measures depend on where you live. California's Secretary of State also provides an official Voter Information Guide with information about statewide candidates and propositions.

How can you see your ballot before Election Day?

A simple option is to use a sample ballot or voter guide. The information provided with a sample ballot can show the candidates and measures that will appear on your actual ballot. Voter guides go a step further by providing background information about candidates and ballot measures.

The material provided for the election points voters to VOTE411, where they can enter their address to find candidates and measures on their ballot. The tool can also provide voter registration information, voting options, deadlines and polling-place details.

California voters will also receive a County Voter Information Guide. The Secretary of State explains that this guide, formerly known as a sample ballot, contains a sample of the voter's ballot along with information about local candidates and ballot measures.

The state also has an Official Voter Information Guide for the November 3 election. It includes information about statewide candidates and propositions.

What should you check before voting?

Once you have found your ballot, go through it before Election Day.

Look at the candidates and ballot measures that will actually appear on your ballot. The races can vary depending on where you live, so checking your own address is important.

The supplied voter information also points voters toward candidate forums, debates and interviews as ways to learn more about candidates and their views. For ballot measures, voters can review the official voter information materials, including explanations and arguments for and against statewide propositions.

You can also use a sample ballot to make notes before voting. The information provided says voters can bring notes, a voter's guide or a sample ballot into the voting booth. Some polling places may restrict cell phone use, so paper copies can be useful.

The goal is to arrive knowing what you will see on the ballot instead of trying to work it out while voting.

What are the key 2026 voting dates?

California county elections officials will begin mailing ballots on or before October 5, 2026. Secure ballot drop boxes open October 6. October 19 is the last day to register to vote, while in-person early voting locations throughout California will be open on October 31.

Election Day is November 3. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and voters can return their ballots by 8 p.m.

Voters can choose to vote by mail, use a drop box or vote in person. Those using mail ballots are encouraged to send them back early. The Secretary of State recommends mailing a ballot at least seven days before Election Day.

Previewing the ballot is one of the easiest ways to prepare. Instead of walking into the polling place and seeing every race for the first time, voters can check their candidates and measures ahead of time, review their voter guide and decide how they want to vote.

FAQs

Can I see my ballot before voting?
Yes. Sample ballots and voter guides can show the candidates and measures you will see.

Can I bring a sample ballot to vote?
Yes. You can bring notes, a voter guide or sample ballot.