Are mail in ballots absentee
In the United States, the terms "mail-in ballot" and "absentee ballot" are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference between the two.
Absentee ballot: An absentee ballot is a ballot that is cast by a voter who is unable to vote in person on Election Day due to a valid reason, such as:
- Being out of town on Election Day
- Having a disability that prevents them from voting in person
- Being a member of the military or a civilian living overseas
- Being a student or worker away from home on Election Day
In most states, absentee ballots are requested by the voter and are typically mailed to the voter's address. The voter then completes the ballot and returns it to the election office by a specified deadline.
Mail-in ballot: A mail-in ballot, on the other hand, is a ballot that is automatically sent to all registered voters in a state or locality, allowing them to vote by mail without having to request an absentee ballot. This is often referred to as "universal vote-by-mail" or "all-mail voting."
In states that offer mail-in ballots, voters do not need to provide a reason for voting by mail, and the ballots are typically sent to all registered voters. This can include:
- All registered voters in a state or locality
- Voters who are 65 or older
- Voters with disabilities
- Voters who are members of the military or overseas civilians
In summary:
- Absentee ballots are requested by voters who cannot vote in person on Election Day due to a valid reason.
- Mail-in ballots are automatically sent to all registered voters in a state or locality, allowing them to vote by mail without having to request an absentee ballot.
It's worth noting that some states use the terms "absentee ballot" and "mail-in ballot" interchangeably, while others have distinct definitions and processes for each.