Voting by mail in Wisconsin: The do’s and don’ts

Voting absentee has increasingly become more common in recent years, but many voters may still have questions about how to cast their ballots by mail before the 2024 election. Here are some do’s and don’ts for voting by mail this year.

DO: Know your rights

Under state law, every citizen who is eligible to vote is also eligible to request an absentee ballot for any reason. You don’t need to provide any excuse or reason for requesting to vote absentee, and it can be a convenient way to ensure that your vote counts without having to deal with any long waits at your polling place. 

DON’T: Wait too long

You must request your absentee ballot prior to 5 p.m. on the Thursday (Oct. 31) before Election Day, but it’s recommended that you submit your request much earlier. Absentee ballots are mailed out up to 47 days before the national election, and the U.S. Postal Service recommends that you mail back your ballot at least one week before Election Day in order for it to be returned on time. If you’re running behind, no worries – you can drop your absentee ballot off in person, at a drop box, your municipal clerk’s office, or your local polling place no later than 8 p.m. on Election Day.

DO: Find a witness

To complete your absentee ballot, you will need the signature of a witness to confirm that you are the one who filled it out. A witness can be any U.S. citizen aged 18 or older, given that they are not a candidate for any race on the ballot. Ask a family member, friend, neighbor, or coworker for five minutes of their time so your vote can count – and volunteer to be their witness in return!

DON’T: Skip the instructions

Don’t get ahead of yourself while filling out your ballot – make sure to carefully follow the instructions included in your ballot envelope. Use a black or blue pen, double-check that the name and address listed match yours, and sign and date the return envelope. Also ensure that your witness signs where needed, and properly seal the envelope upon return.

DO: Track your ballot

After you mail your ballot, it’s a good idea to use the MyVote Wisconsin website to track its status as Election Day gets closer. The portal lets you check when your ballot was sent, when your ballot has been received, and if there have been any issues with the return of your ballot.

Are you ready to vote? Make sure to check your voter registration status, see who’s on your ballot, and make a voting plan here.