How to vote early in the US midterms: Check your state’s dates, locations and rules before election day
US midterm elections: In the United States, early voting means that eligible voters can cast a ballot prior to Election Day. The process differs from state-to-state and even between local jurisdictions. Voters should check when early voting begins...
As the US midterm elections approach, voters who may not be able to cast their ballot on election day should find out if they can vote early. Early voting allows eligible voters an opportunity to vote ahead of the official election day, but the process varies depending on the rules in their state and local area.
Rules on voting vary around the country, including when early voting is available, where voters can go and what process they have to go through.Voters can check this information using official election resources to know their options before heading to a polling site.
Is your state an early voting state?
Some states have early in-person voting periods, so eligible voters can cast their ballots before Election Day. Most states don’t require voters to provide a reason for voting early.But some states require voters to request an absentee ballot to vote before Election Day.
The National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL) has a map that voters can use to determine if their state allows early in-person voting.
Voters also can look at the USAGov’s early voting guide to learn how to begin checking their state’s procedures.
Where can I find early voting dates and locations?
The location and time for early voting varies by state and local jurisdiction.To avoid relying on outdated or incorrect information, voters should contact their state or local election office.
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In any area, voters can check with election officials for information about the early voting period, designated polling places and specific requirements.
If a state’s election website does not separately list early voting information, voters may want to check its absentee voting instructions. This is especially relevant in states where voting before Election Day is handled through absentee ballot processes.
<p>US midterm elections: In the United States, early voting means that eligible voters can cast a ballot prior to Election Day.(Photo by Adam J. Dewey/Anadolu via Getty Images)<br></p>
Why your current address is important
The election office and ballot that apply to a voter are determined by their current home address. Consequently, information regarding an early polling location, a different county or another voter's experience may not apply to their circumstances.
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Voters should confirm their registration status and learn the official voting information for their area. They should also confirm that the early voting site they intend to visit serves their address and check its operating hours for the selected day.
Early Vote: What You Should Know
Before you head to an early voting site, voters need to check:
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Dates: Know when early voting begins and ends in their state.
Voting site: Check the address of the designated site and whether they have residential area.
Checking identification: Check identification requirements and acceptable alternatives.
Accessibility: Find out about the accessibility provisions and help available.
Registration process: Check if other registration requirements are applicable to their situation.
Voters shouldn’t expect to use the same location for early voting as they will on Election Day. Separate locations and arrangements may apply.
Eligible voters can cast their ballots before Election Day through early voting. The options available will depend on state and local guidelines.The best way is to check the official resources, rather than assuming it’s the same procedures in the country.
