How to vote by mail in california
Voting by mail, also known as absentee voting, is a convenient way to cast your ballot in California. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you vote by mail in California:
Check if you're eligible:
- You're a registered voter in California.
- You're unable to vote in person on Election Day.
- You're a member of the military, a voter living overseas, or a voter with a disability.
Request an absentee ballot:
- Online: Go to the California Secretary of State's website (www.sos.ca.gov) and fill out the online application for an absentee ballot.
- Phone: Call your county elections office and request an absentee ballot application. You can find your county elections office contact information on the California Secretary of State's website.
- Mail: Download and print the absentee ballot application form from the California Secretary of State's website, fill it out, and mail it to your county elections office.
Fill out the absentee ballot application:
- Provide your name, address, and voter registration information.
- Specify the election(s) you want to vote in.
- Sign and date the application.
Receive your absentee ballot:
- Once your application is processed, your county elections office will mail you an absentee ballot.
- Make sure to sign the envelope and return it by the deadline.
Fill out the absentee ballot:
- Read the instructions carefully and fill out the ballot according to the instructions.
- Make sure to sign and date the ballot.
Return the absentee ballot:
- Mail the completed ballot back to your county elections office by the deadline.
- You can also return the ballot in person at your county elections office or a designated drop-off location.
Deadlines:
- Request an absentee ballot: Typically 7-10 days before the election.
- Return the completed absentee ballot: Typically 3-5 days before the election.
Important tips:
- Make sure to sign and date the envelope and ballot.
- Use a secure and trackable method to return your ballot, such as certified mail or a delivery service.
- If you need assistance filling out your ballot, contact your county elections office or a voting assistance organization.
Track your ballot:
- You can track the status of your absentee ballot on the California Secretary of State's website or through your county elections office.
By following these steps, you can exercise your right to vote by mail in California. Remember to request your absentee ballot well in advance of the election and return it by the deadline to ensure your vote is counted.