Vermont midterm elections 2026: What happens if there is a problem with your mail-in ballot?

With Election Day approaching on November 3, voters who return their mail-in ballots need to make sure the required information is complete. In Vermont, a ballot can be marked defective if the voter fails to sign the certificate envelope or does not place the marked ballot inside the required envelope. However, state law gives voters an opportunity to correct certain errors before the polls close on Election Day.

What can make a Vermont mail-in ballot defective?

According to the Vermont Secretary of State’s office, election officials check returned absentee ballots to make sure the certificate envelope is signed and the ballot has been placed inside the correct envelope.

Under Vermont law, a ballot can be marked defective if officials cannot determine the voter’s identity, the voter is not legally qualified, the voter has already voted in the same election, the certificate is unsigned or the marked ballot is not inside the certificate envelope. In primary elections, failing to return unvoted primary ballots can also result in a defective ballot.


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Can voters fix a defective mail-in ballot?

Yes. Vermont law allows voters to correct certain ballot problems, a process known as “curing” a ballot.

When officials identify a defective ballot, they must notify the voter and explain the reason. The voter may correct the error, submit a new ballot in person at the clerk’s office or polling place. Or else return an affidavit included with the notice.

Voters may also vote by mail to obtain a new ballot. The new ballot must arrive at election official’s offices before the polls close on Election Day. Generally, voters will have time under Vermont law to fix an improper ballot until the polls close on Election Day.

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However, the deadline for returning an affidavit electronically is earlier: it must be received by the close of business on the day before the election.

For the November 3, 2026, election, voters should contact their town or city clerk immediately if they learn that their ballot has a problem. The law also limits voters to curing a defective ballot twice in a single election.

How can Vermont voters check their ballot status?

Voters can visit the Vermont Voter Portal to check their ballot status. The Secretary of State’s office also advises voters to contact their local clerk if they need help correcting an error.