Voting & Elections
How to vote by mail (absentee voting)
Most states allow voters to cast a ballot by mail rather than in person. The process requires requesting a ballot in advance, completing it correctly, and returning it before the deadline.
Rules vary significantly. Some states are all-mail and automatically send ballots to every registered voter. Others require an excuse (illness, travel, disability) to vote absentee. A handful require a witness or notary signature on the return envelope.
Last reviewed: June 5, 2026
Steps
Check your state's rules
The first step is finding out what your state allows. All-mail states (Colorado, Oregon, Washington, others) automatically mail you a ballot. Most other states allow no-excuse absentee voting, meaning anyone can request one. A few states still require a qualifying reason.
Request your absentee ballot
Most states require you to request a mail ballot separately — it is not automatically sent unless your state is all-mail. Request through your county election office website or your state's official election website. Request early — typically 7–15 days before the deadline.
Tip: Many states allow you to sign up for permanent absentee status, meaning you automatically receive a mail ballot for every future election without re-requesting.
Receive and review your ballot
Your ballot arrives by mail along with instructions, a secrecy envelope (in most states), and a return envelope. Read the instructions fully before marking your ballot — errors are a leading cause of ballots being rejected.
Mark your ballot carefully
Use the specified pen (usually black or blue ink). Follow directions exactly — some ballots require filling in ovals, others require completing arrows. Do not make stray marks. If you make a mistake, contact your election office for a replacement ballot.
Seal your ballot correctly
In most states, you must place your marked ballot inside a secrecy envelope first, then seal that inside the return envelope. Sign the outer envelope where indicated. Some states require a witness signature or notarization — check your state's requirements.
Return your ballot before the deadline
You can typically return your ballot by mail (check postage requirements) or drop it off at an official ballot drop box or your county election office. Be aware of deadlines — some states require the ballot to be received by Election Day, others accept ballots postmarked by Election Day.
Tip: Track your ballot after returning it. Most states offer a ballot tracking tool on their election website so you can confirm it was received and counted.