Update Aug 24:
The U.S. Postal Service recently announced they’re prepared to roll out new procedures which comply with Trump’s mail-in voting restrictions. And on Monday, August 24th, the Supreme Court decided these procedures can move forward.
Don't let these voter suppression tactics keep you from voting.
The uncertainty surrounding mail-in voting is designed to make voters hesitate and is EXACTLY why overseas voters should act now.
There are two important steps voters abroad can take immediately:
1. Request your ballot be sent to you by email
If you haven't already requested your 2026 absentee ballot, do it now and request electronic (email) delivery.
Submitting a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) allows U.S. voters abroad to register and request their ballot, and it gives you the option of receiving your ballot electronically rather than relying on international mail.
Request your ballot at VoteFromAbroad.org.
2. Use the Backup Ballot now
If you vote in a state that requires ballot return by postal mail, don’t wait for your official ballot to arrive.
The Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB) is a backup ballot specifically designed for overseas voters who are concerned they won't receive their official ballot in time. You can use it now, rather than waiting for your state ballot to arrive.
Find out more about a back up ballot at Votefromabroad.org.
States that always require ballot return by postal mail: Arkansas, Connecticut, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Maryland, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Dakota, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
States that require ballot return by postal mail unless you’re military or in a hostile zone: Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Texas
More information about your state’s rules!
The bottom line
As an overseas voter - you have the right to receive your ballot by email. But you must request your ballot this year, and ask to have it sent to you that way.
Request to receive your ballot by email. And if you vote in a state that requires postal mail ballot return, use a back up ballot.
Your vote is your voice. Use it now!