Mail- in Ballot reminders

Voters planning to cast their ballots by mail should take a few extra steps to help ensure their ballots can be processed.  Texas law generally requires mail-in ballots to be received by 7 p.m. Nov. 3, Election Day, with certain exceptions.  Ballots mailed from within the United States may qualify for the late-arriving ballot rule if they are postmarked by the applicable deadline and received by the county by 5 p.m. Nov. 4, the day after Election Day.  Voters should confirm the requirements that apply to their ballots.

For ballots being returned close to Election Day, it is recommended you visit a post office to have the envelope hand-stamped with the date.  Voters who have already mailed their ballots can use their respective county’s ballot tracker.  Before returning a mail-in ballot, voters should:

~Use the white secrecy envelope.  Place the ballot inside the designated envelope before putting it in the carrier envelope.

~Check identification information.  Provide the required Texas driver’s license, personal identification card or Social Security number information, as applicable, and ensure it matches the information on the application.

~Complete required sections.  Anyone who assists a voter must complete the appropriate assistant section.  Witness information must be provided when required.

~Seal and sign the carrier envelope.  Follow the instructions for sealing the envelope and signing across the flap, ensuring the signature is visible.

~Return the ballot early.  Check the applicable deadline and delivery requirements rather than waiting until Election Day.

For more information visit VoteTexas.org or sos.state.tx.us.