If you can’t vote in person in NYC, vote by mail
Voting by mail is a safe, easy, and secure option for those who need it!
You can request an absentee ballot if you have a valid reason, such as being away from New York on Election Day or having an illness or physical disability.
Did you know: Over 33x more voters requested absentee ballots in the June 2020 presidential primary election than in the 2016 presidential primary election.
How to Vote by Mail
Frequently Asked Questions
What are valid reasons for requesting an absentee ballot?
You can request an absentee ballot if you are away from New York City on Election Day, have an illness or physical disability, are a primary care provider for people who are ill or physically disabled, a resident or patient of a Veterans Health Administration Hospital, or if you are imprisoned or awaiting trial. You can mark your reason on your absentee ballot request form. Request your absentee ballot.
Can I still vote in person if I request or submit an absentee ballot?
If you requested an absentee ballot, then you should plan to vote with it. You can drop off your completed absentee ballot at any voting site while polls are open. However, if you choose to vote in person after requesting an absentee ballot, you will have to vote with an affidavit ballot at your poll site. This ballot will look different. Ask a poll worker for help if you need it.
Can I vote absentee in person?
Sounds strange, but it’s true! You can vote absentee in person at your borough’s Board of Elections office. Offices are open 9am-5pm Monday through Friday, and on the weekend prior to Election Day. This can be a helpful option if you miss the deadline to request a ballot online or by mail. On Election Day offices are open until 9pm. Find your local Board of Elections office.
Can I join a permanent absentee ballot list?
Yes! If you are permanently ill or disabled and cannot get to your poll site, you can join the Board of Elections permanent absentee ballot list. To join, check the box marked “permanent illness or physical disability” on the absentee ballot application. The Board of Elections will automatically send you an absentee ballot application for every election you are qualified to vote in.
