When does voting by mail start

Voting by mail, also known as absentee voting, typically starts several weeks before Election Day in the United States. The exact timing varies by state and even by county, so I'll provide some general information and a few examples.

When does voting by mail typically start?

In most states, voting by mail begins:

  1. 30-45 days before Election Day: This is the typical timeframe for states that allow voters to request absentee ballots by mail.
  2. 15-30 days before Election Day: Some states may allow voters to request absentee ballots in person or online, with a shorter deadline.

Examples of states with early voting by mail:

  1. California: 29 days before Election Day
  2. Colorado: 15 days before Election Day
  3. Oregon: 21 days before Election Day (all voting is done by mail in Oregon)
  4. Washington: 18 days before Election Day
  5. Utah: 22 days before Election Day

How to request an absentee ballot:

To request an absentee ballot, you'll typically need to:

  1. Check with your state or local election office to confirm the deadline and requirements.
  2. Fill out a request form, which can usually be found on the election office's website or obtained by phone or in person.
  3. Submit the completed form, along with any required identification or proof of residency.

Important dates to remember:

  1. Request deadline: The last day to request an absentee ballot, usually 7-10 days before Election Day.
  2. Ballot return deadline: The last day to return your completed absentee ballot, usually Election Day or the day before.
  3. Election Day: The day when polls are open for in-person voting.

Remember to check with your state or local election office for specific details on voting by mail, as rules and deadlines may vary.