Early voting is a convenient option for those who want to cast their ballot ahead of Election Day in Iowa. Whether you plan to vote by mail or in person, it’s important to know the dates, deadlines, and requirements. Here’s a detailed guide to help you navigate early voting for the 2024 elections in Iowa.
Absentee Voting: Request and Return Process
Identification is an important condition to meet in order to qualify for an absentee ballot. The request form must contain either your driving license, non-driving license identification number, or the four-digit PIN on your voter ID card. Without this information, your request shall not be considered.
Deadline for Requesting an Absentee Ballot: Every absentee ballot request you submit is to be addressed to the county auditor and must reach them by 5:00 p.m. on October 21, which is 15 days prior to the Election Day. Note that in case your request is advanced to the county auditor too late in the season for them to send you a ballot by mail and have that completed and sent back to them in time, you will be informed by that county auditor.
Voting by Mail: Key Deadlines and Instructions
The cut-off date for mailing out absentee ballots to voters for the 2024 general elections will not go beyond October 16, which is 20 days prior to the elections. For other polls, ballots are sent within a short period of time after their preparation. Instructions on how to fill and send the ballot back will also accompany the ballot provided.
In order to realistically expect that your vote is counted, you should ensure that the county auditor’s office receives your absentee ballot by 8:00 pm on Election Day, which is November 5. Remember, you cannot return a filled-out absentee ballot to your polling venue on Election Day.
If you cannot return the ballot, you can authorize someone from your household or immediate family to return the ballot on your behalf. Blind or handicapped voters are allowed to assign a person to help in the return of an absentee ballot.
In-person Early Voting in Iowa: Dates and Locations
For those who prefer to vote in person but want to avoid Election Day crowds, Iowa offers in-person early voting.
When Does In-Person Early Voting Begin? In-person early voting begins on October 16, 2024, exactly 20 days before Election Day. This period extends until November 4 at 5:00 p.m., the day before the election.
Where Can You Vote Early In Person? You can vote early in person at your local county auditor’s office. Some counties may also set up satellite early voting stations, but these will only be available if enough voters petition for one. Satellite stations must be accessible to people with disabilities. To find out if your county offers a satellite voting location, contact your county auditor’s office.
Voting in Person After Requesting an Absentee Ballot
In case you have applied and received an absentee ballot but feel that you are ready enough to vote in person, there is no need to worry. There are the following alternatives available:
- Bring your absentee ballot to the county auditor’s office ahead of Election Day.
- Return an absentee ballot at the voting precinct and fill in a regular ballot instead.
- Cast a provisional ballot in case you are not able to return the absentee ballot at the polling location.
Here are some suggested topics for you:
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Stay Informed
To track your absentee ballot or check on satellite voting locations, visit the Iowa Secretary of State’s website or contact your local county auditor’s office. Staying informed about deadlines and voting options ensures your voice is heard in the 2024 elections.
Make your plan early to vote either by mail or in person to avoid any last-minute issues!
