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Absentee and mail ballot rules

Voting by mail and voting by absentee ballot work the same way. Both involve using a mail-in ballot to vote instead of voting in person.

The majority of states will let any registered citizen vote by mail. Some states require that voters provide a reason or an excuse for voting by mail instead of voting in person.

If anything on this page is incorrect, please fill out this form.


Details

Alabama
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in Alabama if:

  • you will be absent from the county on Election Day
  • you are ill or have a physical disability that prevents a trip to the polling place
  • you are a registered Alabama voter who is temporarily living outside the county
  • you are an appointed election officer or poll watcher at a polling place other than your regular polling place
  • you work a required shift of 10 hours or more that coincides with polling hours
Ballot request

You must include a photocopy of a valid government-issued photo ID with your absentee ballot application. Acceptable forms of ID include any photo ID issued by the State of Alabama or the Federal Government, a tribal ID, or a student or employee ID from any accredited American college or university. Additionally you must include your driver's license number OR the last four digits of your Social Security Number on the application.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. Additionally, your voted ballot must be notarized or signed by two witnesses.

Request your Alabama absentee or mail ballot
Alaska
No excuse required

Any registered Alaska voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

To submit an application online or by using a paper application, you will need to provide the last 4 digits of your social security number and either your Alaska driver's license number or state ID number. The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter file to ensure they match.

Ballot return

You must include a driver's license number, Social Security number, or voter ID number. Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Alaska absentee or mail ballot
Arizona
No excuse required

Any registered Arizona voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online applications: You must include the last 4 digits of your social security number and either your AZ driver's license number or AZ nondriver ID number.
  • Paper applications: You must include the last 4 digits of your social security number and either your AZ driver's license number or AZ nondriver ID number.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Arizona absentee or mail ballot
Arkansas
Excuse required

You may vote by absentee ballot in Arkansas if:

  • you will be unavoidably absent from your polling site on Election Day
  • you will be unable to vote in person on Election Day due to illness or physical disability
  • you are an Arkansas resident who is living overseas
  • you are an active duty member of the military or merchant marine who is stationed away from home, or the spouse or dependent of such a person.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

You must include a photocopy of a valid photo ID with your voted ballot. Your ID must show your must show your name and must have been issued by the State of Arkansas, the Federal Government, or an accredited Arkansas school. If the ID is expired, it cannot have expired more than 4 years ago. If you are unable to provide a copy of acceptable ID, you may sign an affidavit.

Request your Arkansas absentee or mail ballot
California
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All California elections are vote-by-mail. This means that California will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your California absentee or mail ballot
Colorado
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Colorado elections are held by mail. This means that Colorado will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • Colorado does not support one-time absentee ballots, so if you will be away from home during a specific election, you need to register to vote again and update the address where you want to receive your ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

If you are are a first time voter, you may need to include a copy of your ID with your voted ballot. Acceptable forms of ID include a photo ID issued by any state or the Federal Government. If you don't have a photo ID, include a photo copy of a recent utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document that shows your name and address.

Request your Colorado absentee or mail ballot
Connecticut
Excuse required

You may vote by absentee ballot in Connecticut if:

  • You will be absent from town during all the hours of voting
  • You are ill
  • You have a physical disability which makes it difficult for you to get to the polls
  • You are active duty within the US military
  • Your religion forbids non-religious activity on Election Day
  • Your will be working as a poll worker at a polling place other than your own during all the hours on Election Day
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Connecticut absentee or mail ballot
Delaware
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in Delaware if:

  • you are unable to vote in person due to work obligations (if you are a student, eligible incarcerated people, or are providing care to a parent, spouse, or child you may use this excuse)
  • you are sick or physically disabled,
  • you will be absent from your county during voting periods, or
  • you are restricted from voting in person due to religious beliefs.
  • you are in public service of the U.S. or the State of Delaware (or are a spouse or dependent thereof),
Ballot request
  • Online applications: you will need a Delaware driver's license number or Delaware state ID number.
  • Paper applications: The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Delaware absentee or mail ballot
District of Columbia
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • The District of Columbia will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of the 2022 elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

If you are a first-time voter, you must include your drivers license number, any current government-issued photo ID, or a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government‐issued document that shows your name and address

Request your District of Columbia absentee or mail ballot
Florida
No excuse required

Any registered Florida voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

You must include a copy of a non-expired Florida driver's license, state ID card, U.S. passport, debit or credit card, military ID, student ID, retirement center ID, or any ID issued by the Federal Government. If you do not have a valid ID you can provide a coyp of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or government document. Additionally, your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Florida absentee or mail ballot
Georgia
No excuse required

Any registered Georgia voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online applications: you must provide your Georgia driver's license number or state ID number.
  • Paper applications: You must provide your Georgia driver's license or state ID number. If you do not have one, you can supply a photocopy of another type of valid ID.
Ballot return

You must include your Georgia drivers license number, state ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Additionally, your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Georgia absentee or mail ballot
Hawaii
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Hawaii elections are vote-by-mail. This means that Hawaii will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

Hawaii is an all vote-by-mail state and you are not required to present ID to request an absentee ballot. However, if you need to request a temporary change of address for your ballot to be sent, you must include your Hawaii drivers license or state ID number. If you do not have an ID, you must include the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number. If you have none of these, there is a box to check indicating that you do not have the requested ID. The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Hawaii absentee or mail ballot
Idaho
No excuse required

Any registered Idaho voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Idaho absentee or mail ballot
Illinois
No excuse required

Any registered Illinois voter may request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

Online application: You can apply online if you have an Illinois driver's license number or Illinois state ID number. Paper application: The signature on your application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Illinois absentee or mail ballot
Indiana
Excuse required

You can vote using an absentee ballot in Indiana if:

  • You will be absent from your county on Election Day
  • you have a disability
  • you are at least 65 years old
  • you are prevented from voting due to the unavailability of transportation to the polls,
  • you will be confined due to illness or injury or you will be caring for an individual confined due to illness or injury during the 12 hours that the polls are open
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

You are not required to submit ID with your voted by-mail ballot unless you are a first-time voter and did not provide proof of residence with your by-mail ballot request. In this case, acceptable forms of ID can be a state-issued ID where the address matches their registration, or a bank statement, utility bill, etc.

Request your Indiana absentee or mail ballot
Iowa
No excuse required

Any registered Iowa voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Iowa absentee or mail ballot
Kansas
No excuse required

Any registered Kansas voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration records to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Kansas absentee or mail ballot
Kentucky
Excuse required

You can vote by mail in Kentucky if:

  • you are advanced in age, disabled, or ill
  • you are a military personnel or their dependent, or an overseas citizen
  • you are a student who temporarily resides outside the county
  • you are a voter who temporarily resides outside of Kentucky and who maintains eligibility to vote in Kentucky, such as a “snowbird”
  • you are incarcerated, but not yet convicted of a crime
  • you are employed outside of the county all hours the polling place is open.

You can vote in person at your County Clerk's office before Election Day if:

  • you will be out of the county on election day
  • you are advanced in age, disabled, or ill
  • you are a military personnel, their dependent, or an overseas citizen
  • you are a military personnel confined to base and learn of your confinement within seven days or less of an election
  • you are a student or resident who temporarily resides outside of the county
  • you are a voter or the spouse of a voter who has surgery scheduled that will require hospitalization on Election Day
  • you are a pregnant woman in third trimester
  • you are a precinct election officer appointed to serve in precinct other than his own, an alternate precinct election officer, County Board of Elections members or staff, Deputy county clerk, or State Board of Elections staff
Ballot request

You must include a photocopy of a government issued ID, such as a Kentucky driver's license. If you don't have a government issued ID, you can indicate this and provide a photocopy of a document that shows your name and address, such as a recent utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or any government document that shows your name and home address.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Kentucky absentee or mail ballot
Louisiana
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in Louisiana if:

  • you are 65 years or older
  • you are a student or teacher located and living outside of your parish of registration, or the spouse/dependent thereof
  • you are a minister, priest, rabbi, or other member of the clergy assigned outside of your parish of registration, or the spouse/dependent thereof
  • you are or expect to be temporarily outside the state or absent from your parish of registration during the early voting period and on Election Day
  • you moved over 100 miles away from your former residence within 30 days of Election Day
  • you are involuntarily confined or incarcerated in an institution either for mental treatment (must be confined outside of your place of registration and not be judicially declared incompetent) or for a conviction (although you must NOT be serving time for a felony conviction)
  • you expect to be hospitalized on Election Day and did not know until after the early voting period OR you were hospitalized during early voting and expect to be hospitalized on Election Day
  • you are a participant in the Department of State’s Address Confidentiality Program
Ballot request
  • Online application: you can apply online if you have a Louisiana driver's license or state ID card.
  • Paper application: the signature on your absentee application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. Your application must also be signed by two witnesses.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Louisiana absentee or mail ballot
Maine
No excuse required

Any registered Maine voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your corresponding return envelope to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Maine absentee or mail ballot
Maryland
No excuse required

Any registered Maryland voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online applications: you will need to provide your Maryland driver's license number, state ID number, or learner's permit number.
  • Paper applications: the signature on your application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Maryland absentee or mail ballot
Massachusetts
No excuse required

Any registered Massachusetts voter may request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

Your signature on your application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Massachusetts absentee or mail ballot
Michigan
No excuse required

Any registered Michigan voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online application: You must provide the last 4 digits of your social security number AND either your Michigan driver's license number or Michigan state ID number.
  • Paper application: The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration record to ensure they match.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Michigan absentee or mail ballot
Minnesota
No excuse required

Any Minnesota resident can request an absentee ballot. If you are not yet registered, you will receive a voter registration form along with your absentee ballot.

Ballot request

You must include your Minnesota driver's license, state ID Number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number on your absentee ballot application. If you have none of these, you may sign a statement indicating that you do not have any of these numbers.

Ballot return

You must include your Minnesota driver's license number, passport number, state ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security Number. Additionally, your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Minnesota absentee or mail ballot
Mississippi
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in Mississippi if:

  • you will be away from your county on Election Day for any reason
  • you have a temporary or permanent physical disability that renders you unable to vote in person without substantial hardship
  • you are the caretaker for a person with a temporary or permanent physical disability
  • you will be away at school, either as a student, teacher, or administrator and will be unable to vote in person on Election Day
  • you are 65 years of age or older
  • you will be unable to vote in person because you are required to be at work on Election Day during the times at which the polls will be open
  • you are hospitalized, or you are a caring for someone who has been hospitalized
  • you are a member (or spouse or dependent of such a person) of the military, the Merchant Marine, or American Red Cross.
  • you are quarantining due to COVID-19
Ballot request

You must have your absentee ballot application notarized or signed by a witness unless you are physically disabled or over the age of 65. If you are disabled or over 65, your absentee ballot application must be signed by a witness who is at least 18 years old.

Ballot return

To return your by-mail ballot you must include your signature and the signature of a notary or court clerk. However, if you are over the age of 65, out of your county, or are disabled, then anyone over the age of 18 may sign as a witness. Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Mississippi absentee or mail ballot
Missouri
Excuse required

You can vote using an absentee ballot in Missouri if:

  • you will be away from home on Election Day
  • you are incapacitated or confined due to illness or physical disability
  • you are the caretaker for an incapacitated or physically disabled person
  • you are restricted by religious belief or practice
  • you will be working at a polling place on Election Day that is not your designated polling place.
  • you are incarcerated but not yet convicted of a crime
  • You are a participant in the Department of State's Address Confidentiality Program
Ballot request

You must include your Missouri driver's license, state ID Number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number on your absentee ballot application.

Ballot return

To return your by-mail ballot you must include your signature and the signature of a notary or court clerk. Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Missouri absentee or mail ballot
Montana
No excuse required

Any registered Montana voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Montana absentee or mail ballot
Nebraska
No excuse required

Any registered Nebraska voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

If you are a first time voter and did not provide valid ID when registering or applying for your ballot then you must provide a non-expired photo ID or a current utility bill, bank statement, government check, paycheck, or other government document dated within 60 days.

Request your Nebraska absentee or mail ballot
Nevada
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Nevada elections are vote-by-mail. This means that Nevada will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections unless that voter has chosen to opt out of receiving mail ballots.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Nevada absentee or mail ballot
New Hampshire
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in New Hampshire if:

  • you will be absent from your county on Election Day
  • you cannot appear in public on Election Day because of religious observances
  • you are unable to vote in person due to a disability
  • you cannot appear during the designated polling hours because of employment obligation or childcare.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your New Hampshire absentee or mail ballot
New Jersey
No excuse required

Any registered New Jersey voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your New Jersey absentee or mail ballot
New Mexico
No excuse required

Any registered New Mexico voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online application: You must provide your New Mexico driver's license number, state ID number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number.
  • Paper application: The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

You must provide the last four digits of your Social Security Number on the return envelope, underneath the privacy flap. Additionally, your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your New Mexico absentee or mail ballot
New York
No excuse required

Any registered New York voter may request an early mail ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Request your New York absentee or mail ballot
North Carolina
No excuse required

Any registered North Carolina voter may request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

You must include your North Carolina driver's license number, state ID number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number on your absentee ballot application. The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your North Carolina absentee or mail ballot
North Dakota
No excuse required

Any North Dakota resident can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

You must include your North Dakota driver's license number, state ID number, or tribal ID number on your absentee ballot application. If you do not have one of these numbers, or if your ID has expired, you must include a photocopy of another government issued document that shows your name and your current North Dakota address. The signature that you provide on your application will be compared to the signature on your ballot affidavit envelope.

Ballot return

You must include your North Dakota driver's license, state ID, tribal ID, or a long term care ID. If you do not have a valid ID you can provide a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, check, or document issued by the federal, state, local, or tribal government.

Request your North Dakota absentee or mail ballot
Ohio
No excuse required

Any registered Ohio voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

You must provide your Ohio driver's license number or the last 4 digits of your social security number on your absentee ballot application. If you do not have either number, you must include a photocopy of a different form of current photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID (must not be expired):

  • Ohio driver's license
  • State of Ohio ID card
  • Interim ID form issued by the Ohio BMV
  • A US passport
  • A US passport card
  • US military ID card
  • Ohio National Guard ID card
  • US Department of Veterans Affairs ID card

The copy of the photo ID must include images of the front and back, except for a passport which must include the passport's identification page.

Ballot return

You must provide your Ohio driver's license number or the last 4 digits of your social security number on your identification envelope. If you do not have either number, you must include a photocopy of a different form of current photo identification. Acceptable forms of ID (must not be expired):

  • Ohio driver's license
  • State of Ohio ID card
  • Interim ID form issued by the Ohio BMV
  • A US passport
  • A US passport card
  • US military ID card
  • Ohio National Guard ID card
  • US Department of Veterans Affairs ID card

The copy of the photo ID must include images of the front and back, except for a passport which must include the passport's identification page.

Request your Ohio absentee or mail ballot
Oklahoma
No excuse required

Any registered Oklahoma voter may request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. Additionally, your ballot must be signed by either two witnesses or notarized.

Request your Oklahoma absentee or mail ballot
Oregon
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Oregon elections are held by mail. This means that Oregon will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

The signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Oregon absentee or mail ballot
Pennsylvania
No excuse required

Any registered Pennsylvania voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online applications: You can apply online if you have a PA driver's license number or PennDOT issued nondriver's ID number.
  • Paper applications: You must provide a copy of your current and valid Pennsylvania driver’s license, PennDOT photo ID card, or the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number. If you don’t have a valid ID or a social security number, you can provide a photocopy of your passport or other ID issued by the Federal Government, a photo ID issued by a Pennsylvania public or private school, or a photo ID issued by a Pennsylvania care facility. Your ID must be non-expired. Additionally, the signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Pennsylvania absentee or mail ballot
Rhode Island
No excuse required

Any registered Rhode Island voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. Additionally, your voted ballot must be signed by 2 witnesses or a Notary Public.

Request your Rhode Island absentee or mail ballot
South Carolina
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in South Carolina if:

  • you are physically disabled
  • you are away at school
  • you are unable to vote on Election Day due to work, illness, or a death in the family
  • you will be outside of your county on Election Day
  • you will be serving as a juror in state or federal court on Election Day
  • you are 65 years of age or older
  • you are unable to vote at polling locations due to religious observances (presidential primaries only)
  • you are a member of the Armed Forces, Merchant Marines, American Red Cross, or the spouse or dependent of someone who is
Ballot request
  • Online application: You must include the last 4 digits of your social security number.
  • Paper application: You must include your voter registration number.
Ballot return

To return your voted ballot you will be required to sign the voter's oath and have your signature witnessed. The signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your South Carolina absentee or mail ballot
South Dakota
No excuse required

Any registered South Dakota voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

You either need to have your absentee ballot application notarized, include a photocopy of a government-issued photo ID that shows your name and South Dakota address, or send an email to your county auditor with a picture of a your South Dakota driver's license or state ID card, passport or photo ID issued by the Federal Government, a photo tribal ID, or a photo student ID for a South Dakota school.

Ballot return

The signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your South Dakota absentee or mail ballot
Tennessee
Excuse required

You can vote by absentee ballot in Tennessee if:

  • you are 60 years of age or older
  • you will be outside of your county during the early voting period and all day on Election Day
  • you are a full time student outside of your county
  • you reside in a nursing home or living facility outside of your county
  • you serve as an Election Day official
  • you will be unable to vote in person due to jury duty
  • you have a physical disability and are unable to vote in person
  • you are a member of the military or an overseas citizen
  • you are on the permanent absentee list.
Ballot request

You must include your full social security number on your absentee ballot application.

Ballot return

The signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. Additionally, if you hand-deliver your voted ballot you will need to show a government issued photo ID to the election official. Student IDs are not considered valid in Tennessee.

Request your Tennessee absentee or mail ballot
Texas
Excuse required

You can vote using an absentee ballot in Texas if:

  • you are 65 years or older
  • you are disabled
  • you will be out of the county on Election Day and during the early voting period
  • you are in jail but not yet convicted of a crime
Ballot request

You must include your TX driver's license number, or state ID number, or the last four digits of your Social Security Number on your absentee ballot application. Additionally, the signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return
  • If you return your voted ballot by mail, your local election official will compare your signature on the outside envelope to the one on your voter registration form to make sure they match.
  • If you return your ballot in person, you will need to show a government issued photo ID card. You cannot show a student ID card, even if the ID was issued by the University of Texas.
Request your Texas absentee or mail ballot
Utah
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Utah elections are held by mail. This means that Utah will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

The signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Utah absentee or mail ballot
Vermont
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Vermont elections are vote-by-mail. This means that Vermont will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request
  • Online application: You will need to provide your Vermont driver's license number, state ID number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number.
  • Paper application: The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

You must sign the outside of your ballot envelope for your ballot to be valid. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Vermont absentee or mail ballot
Virginia
No excuse required

Any registered Virginia voter may request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

You must provide the last 4 digits of your social security number on your absentee ballot application. Additionally, the signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. Additionally, if you did not submit valid ID when registering to vote by mail then you must include a copy of a non-expired photo ID or a current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck that shows name and address.

Request your Virginia absentee or mail ballot
Washington
Ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters
  • All Washington elections are vote-by-mail. This means that Washington will automatically send a mail-in ballot to every registered voter ahead of all elections.
  • If you need to update your mailing address temporarily for a specific election, request a one-time absentee ballot.
Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration records to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Washington absentee or mail ballot
West Virginia
Excuse required

You may vote using an absentee ballot in West Virginia if:

  • you have an illness, injury, disability, or another medical issue that makes it hard to vote in person
  • you are elderly
  • you have to work during polling hours
  • you will be away from home on Election Day and during the early voting period
  • you are a student attending school outside of your county
  • you are currently incarcerated or under home detention but have not been convicted of any felony, treason, or election bribery
Ballot request
  • Online application: you must provide your West Virginia driver's license number, state ID number, or the last 4 digits of your social security number.
  • Paper application: the signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.
Ballot return

Your voted ballot must be signed by one witness who is at least 18 years old. Additionally, if you are a first time voter you must send a copy of a valid photo ID that shows your name and address. If you do not have a valid ID, you can send a copy of a utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or other official government document that contains your name and address.

Request your West Virginia absentee or mail ballot
Wisconsin
No excuse required

Any registered Wisconsin voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request
  • Online applications: you will need to upload a photo of your ID if you are voting in Wisconsin for the first time. Acceptable forms of ID include any ID issued by the State of Wisconsin or the Federal Government, or a non-expired student ID card issued by an accredited Wisconsin college or university.
  • Paper applications: you will need to include a photocopy of your ID if you are voting in Wisconsin for the first time. Acceptable forms of ID include any ID issued by the State of Wisconsin or the Federal Government, or a non-expired student ID card issued by an accredited Wisconsin college or university.
Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected. You must also have your voted ballot signed by a witness who is at least 18 years old.

Request your Wisconsin absentee or mail ballot
Wyoming
No excuse required

Any registered Wyoming voter can request an absentee ballot and vote by mail.

Ballot request

The signature on your absentee ballot application will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match.

Ballot return

Your signature on the return envelope will be compared to the signature on your voter registration card to ensure they match. If you forget to sign the return envelope, your ballot might be rejected.

Request your Wyoming absentee or mail ballot