3 Easy Steps + FAQs
Step 1: Register to vote & request your absentee ballot
Register to vote and request your absentee ballot by filling out the Federal Post Card Application, which allows you to register and request your absentee ballot at the same time. Be sure to indicate that you want the absentee ballot sent to you by email. All states do this, but you have to choose it on the form. (Why we need it: It cuts weeks, if not months, out of the process.) Do it ASAP because some states require you to mail back a hard copy of the registration form. (For state-by-state rules and deadlines, see: https://www.votefromabroad.org/states.)
Step 2: Return your absentee ballot
You should receive your absentee ballot by email by September 19 – or shortly after if you registered very close to that date. Once you receive yours, fill it out and send it back ASAP.
All states are required to send out absentee ballots 45 days before the election (which falls on September 19th this year). All states allow you to return it by postal mail but 18 states require it. The rest allow you to return your absentee ballot by electronic means – by email, by uploading to a secure website, or by fax. (See https://www.votefromabroad.org/states for specific state rules and deadlines.)
Step 3: Confirm your absentee ballot arrived
Confirm that your absentee ballot arrived and will be counted by clicking on “Track Your Ballot” on the state voting rules at Vote From Abroad.org. If your absentee ballot hasn’t arrived – or you haven’t received an absentee ballot – use a federal back up ballot.
Register and request your absentee ballot right away. Here in Greece, the only way to get your ballot back by mail is through the Greek post office or courier service, and you have to reckon that may take a few weeks. Unfortunately, you can’t vote at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate and, in our experience, sending things via the diplomatic pouch takes even longer.
So, if you have any questions go to Vote from Abroad FAQ page or, if you need help problems, send us a message at: [email protected].
Your vote is your voice and every vote counts!