How do you vote by mail in texas

Voting by mail, also known as absentee voting, is a convenient way to cast your ballot in Texas. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you vote by mail in Texas:

Eligibility: To vote by mail in Texas, you must:

  1. Be a registered voter in Texas.
  2. Be 65 years of age or older.
  3. Be disabled.
  4. Be out of the county on election day and during the hours the polls are open.
  5. Be confined in jail, but otherwise eligible to vote.
  6. Be assigned to active duty or stationed outside of the county of residence.

Requesting a Ballot by Mail:

  1. Online: Go to the Texas Secretary of State's website (www.sos.texas.gov) and fill out the online application for an absentee ballot.
  2. By Mail: Download and complete the Absentee Ballot Application (PDF) from the Texas Secretary of State's website and mail it to your county election office.
  3. In Person: Visit your county election office and request an absentee ballot application.

Filling Out the Ballot:

  1. Once you receive your ballot, carefully read the instructions and fill it out according to the instructions.
  2. Make sure to sign and date the ballot envelope.
  3. Fill out the ballot itself, following the instructions provided.

Returning the Ballot:

  1. Mail: Return the completed ballot by mail to your county election office. Make sure to affix the correct postage and use a trackable mail service.
  2. In Person: Return the completed ballot to your county election office in person.

Important Deadlines:

  1. Application Deadline: The deadline to request an absentee ballot is 11 days before the election.
  2. Return Deadline: The deadline to return your completed ballot is 5:00 PM on election day.

Tracking Your Ballot: You can track the status of your absentee ballot online through the Texas Secretary of State's website or by contacting your county election office.

Additional Tips:

  1. Make sure to sign and date the ballot envelope to ensure your ballot is counted.
  2. If you make a mistake on your ballot, you can request a new one by contacting your county election office.
  3. If you're unable to return your ballot by mail, you can return it in person to your county election office.

Remember to check with your county election office for specific deadlines and requirements, as they may vary. Happy voting!