Voting when in the military or living overseas is always complicated but a necessary part of ensuring that all Americans have a voice in the process. The 2024 elections will follow certain guidelines under the Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, commonly referred to as UOCAVA, which cuts through red tape for service members and citizens who reside abroad and would like to vote. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this process or you can go through this article for a brief summary, US Election 2024: How can I get absentee ballot to vote? And also this, US Election 2024: How to vote absentee if you are in the military or outside of the United States
Understanding UOCAVA
The Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act protects the right of members of the uniformed services, their family members, and U.S. citizens residing overseas to register and vote absentee in all federal elections. These elections include presidential and congressional races, as well as some state contests. The UOCAVA permits all such voters to submit applications for voter registration and to request absentee ballots by mail, email, or fax.
Step 1: Register to vote
The first thing a military member or overseas citizen needs to do in order to vote in the 2024 elections is to register. This could be done by filling out the FPCA, which can be found online through the FVAP website. Here are the key steps:
- FPCA application: The FPCA serves as both a voter registration application and an absentee ballot request. You should allow at least the length of time from mailing the form to receiving your ballot by mailing this form no later than August 1 for the general election.
- Determine your voting residence: This is usually the legal residence that is your domicile in the United States. Check with your state for specific requirements for voter registration and deadlines.
- Submit Your FPCA: Once you have completed the form, mail, email, or fax your completed FPCA to your local election office. Check to see if your state prefers one method over another.
Step 2: Receiving your ballot
After your FPCA is processed, you should receive your absentee ballot 45 days before the election. Here are some tips for managing this step:
- Check Your ballot status: If you don’t receive your ballot by early October you should call your election office to verify your FPCA was received and processed.
- Use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB): If you do not receive your official ballot in time to vote and return it by Election Day you can use the FWAB as a backup ballot. The FWAB is also available if you have not yet received your ballot. You can use it to vote for candidates in federal offices for President, Vice President, and members of Congress.
Step 3: Voting your ballot
Your ballot arrives, and it is time to vote. Here is how to ensure your vote is counted:
- Complete your ballot: Follow the instructions provided with the ballot very carefully. Make sure you sign in all of the appropriate places.
- Return your ballot: Mail your ballot back at the first opportunity. Receipt deadlines for ballots vary state by state; make sure to check them on your state’s election website.
- Track your ballot: The majority of states provide an online tracking service for which you can confirm your ballot has been received and accepted.
Additional resources
For further information regarding voting while in the military or living overseas, please consider contacting the resources below:
- Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP): On this website, you will find detailed information regarding registering to vote and voting absentee as a military member or overseas citizen.
- State Election Offices: Each state has its own individual rules on absentee voting, and visiting your state’s election office website will give specific guidance tailored to your situation.
- Voting Assistance Officers: Voting Assistance Officers are available at duty stations, and the military can get personal assistance with the processes of registration and voting.
Read more: US Election 2024: Are state and local elections held at the same time as Presidential Elections?
Read more: Why Election Day is always the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November?
