How will I vote?
There's more than one way to cast your ballot. Here's what each option looks like, and what to consider when picking the one that works best for you.
Vote by mail (absentee)
You request a ballot ahead of time, it's mailed to your home, you fill it out at your own pace, and return it by mail or at a drop-off location. In many states, any registered voter can request a mail ballot without needing a specific reason. A handful of states (Colorado, Oregon, Washington, Utah, and Hawaii) mail ballots automatically to all registered voters.
- Vote from home on your own schedule — no standing in line
- More time to research candidates and measures while your ballot is in front of you
- No need to take time off work or arrange childcare on Election Day
- Can drop off in person if you don't trust mail timing
- Requires planning ahead — request deadlines can be 1–2 weeks before Election Day
- Mail delays can be a risk if you return by mail close to the deadline
- Ballot can be rejected for signature mismatches or other errors (some states allow you to "cure" these; others don't)
- Not available without excuse in every state
Best for: people with busy schedules, mobility challenges, frequent travelers, or anyone who wants to take their time.
Early in-person voting
Most states offer a window of several days or weeks before Election Day when you can go vote at a designated early voting location. Unlike your assigned Election Day polling place, early voting sites are often open to all voters in the county (not just your precinct), and they often have extended hours including evenings and weekends.
- Flexibility to choose a date and time that works for you
- Often less crowded than Election Day
- Any issue with your registration can usually be resolved on the spot
- No mail timing risk — you hand it in directly
- Not available in every state — a few states have very limited or no early voting
- Early voting locations may be fewer and farther away than your Election Day polling place
- Hours and locations vary — requires checking ahead of time
Best for: people who want the convenience of choosing their own time but prefer voting in person and handing their ballot directly to an election worker.
Election Day in-person
The traditional option: go to your assigned polling place on Election Day (the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November), show ID if required, and vote. Polls are typically open from 6 or 7 AM to 7 or 8 PM, and in most states you have the right to vote if you're in line by the time polls close.
- No advance planning required — just show up
- You can vote on the most up-to-date information (helpful if something changes close to Election Day)
- Poll workers can help resolve most issues on the spot
- Available to all registered voters in every state
- Lines can be long, especially in the morning and early evening
- You must vote at your specific assigned polling place (not just any location)
- If something comes up on Election Day, you have no backup
- Requires taking time during business hours or working around your schedule
Best for: people who prefer a simple, familiar process and don't mind planning around Election Day.
A few things to keep in mind
- You can usually only vote once, one way. If you request a mail ballot, you typically can't also vote in person on Election Day (or you'll need to surrender the mail ballot at your polling place).
- Make a plan — and a backup. Life happens. If you're planning to vote by mail, request your ballot early. If you're planning to go in person, know your polling place in advance.
- Rules vary by state. Not every option is available everywhere, and deadlines differ significantly. Check your state's official election website for the specifics.