Please note important changes to mail-in absentee voting due to the coronavirus. Each state makes its own voting rules. Check with your state or local officials for the latest changes for the 2020 elections.

Coronavirus and Voting by Mail-In Absentee Ballot

States are making it easier for citizens to vote absentee by mail this year due to the coronavirus. Every state’s election rules are different. And each state has its own rules for mail-in absentee voting. Many are still in the process of deciding how they will handle voting during the pandemic. Visit your state election office website or contact your local election officials to find out if you can vote by mail. Can I Vote takes you right to your state's absentee voting page.

Every State Offers Mail-In Absentee Voting

Each state has mail-in voting, but some allow you to take part only in certain circumstances.

Some states require an excuse for voting by mail. Due to the coronavirus, some states are giving all voters an excuse to vote by mail for certain elections.

Because of the coronavirus, your state may automatically send you an absentee ballot or a form to fill out to request one.

Your state election office has specific rules for your state.

Request an Absentee Ballot

If your state doesn’t automatically send you an absentee ballot or a form to fill out to request one:

Tips for Getting an Absentee Ballot

If you’re in the U.S., you must be registered to vote before your state will send you an absentee ballot. Overseas voters and military members have other options.

Your state’s next election may be a primary rather than November’s general (presidential) election. Read carefully to make sure you know which absentee ballot you’re requesting.

Remember the deadlines. Find out which elections are coming up in your state and the absentee ballot deadlines for each. Your state may extend these deadlines or waive other requirements. Keep checking for updates.

You Received an Absentee Ballot but Want to Vote In Person

You might be able to vote in person on Election Day, even if you received a mail-in ballot. Check with your state or local election office for the specific procedures for you. Typically:

You’ll take your absentee ballot to your designated polling place on Election Day. Your polling place may change, especially during the coronavirus pandemic, so check it before you go.

Either you’ll exchange your uncast absentee ballot for an in-person ballot, or you’ll complete your absentee ballot and hand it in.

If you forget to bring your absentee ballot with you, you may be able to cast a provisional ballot. Provisional ballots are counted once your election officials verify your voter status.

No Online Voting

In federal elections in the United States, you can't vote online. The only way you can vote without going in-person to a polling place is to use an absentee ballot.