How to Vote Safely and Securely This Fall
Dear Neighbor,
The most important election of our lives has begun.
Mail-in voting has been up and running in Illinois for weeks now. And just yesterday, in-person early voting began at the supersite downtown.
I strongly encourage you to consider voting by mail in the current public health emergency. It's easy, it's safe, and despite any assertions to the contrary, it's extremely secure, with many checks in place to prevent fraud or abuse. Find how to do it below.
If you prefer to vote in person, we've provided information about that option as well. The city's taking precautions to make it as safe as humanly possible. But no matter how you do it, please, please vote. Vote like your life depends on it. This time more than any election I can remember, it really might.
Sincerely,
- Will
Voting Q & A's
How do I register to vote?
You can register to vote online, in person at any early voting site, by mail or with a deputy registrar. Deadlines for registration vary by method - so be sure to register as soon as possible! Click here to register to vote. You can click here to check your voter information.
How do I vote by mail?
You can apply online for a vote by mail ballot through Thursday, Oct. 29. Click here to apply for a vote by mail ballot. Once you apply for a ballot you will receive emails letting you know when your application has been received and when your ballot is being mailed to you. You'll also receive an email once the Election Board receives your completed ballot. If you already applied for a vote by mail ballot you can confirm your application status here.
Once you receive your ballot, and vote from home, you can return your ballot by mail using the ballot return envelope, in person at the Election Board at 69 W. Washington, Sixth Floor, or at a secure drop box. You can find a list of secure drop box schedules and locations here.
How can I vote safely in person?
Early voting began yesterday at the Loop Super Site, 191 N. Clark St. Early voting in the city's 50 wards starts Oct. 14. Chicago voters can use any Early Voting location in the city to cast their early vote. Social distancing guidelines will be in place at all voting sites and plexiglass will be erected near poll worker stations. Masks will be available for voters at each early voting site. Learn more about early voting here.