The rundown on how absentee ballot works.
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With less than two months to go, the U.S. Presidential Election is progressing in full throttle. Regardless of where you are in the world in this instant, the 2016 election has been unlike any other in American history. If you’re traveling, or will not be in the U.S. on November 8th, then you must be wondering how absentee ballot works. Is it complicated? How does one get started? How the heck do you vote from abroad?
Don’t fret. Since much of our team is living abroad, we thought you might find this article helpful. Here’s an easy step by step guide to casting your ballot for your candidate.
1. Confirm your registration.
Have you registered? Don’t know? Check here. If you’re unsure of your state of legal residence, it’s typically the last state you lived in prior to moving abroad.
vote.org2. Fill out your FPCA form.
The best two-in-one for any voter not in the U.S.! If you haven’t registered to vote, FPCA form can be both a registration and an absentee ballot request form. The government website fvap.gov is a fantastic resource setting you up for absentee ballot with deadlines clearly noted for each state requirement. For example, this is what the California deadlines look like:
fvap.gov3. Forget about fax, just mail back the FPCA form!
Yes, fax is listed as an option but not email for most states. Let’s not get into that…BUT for the states that require a hard copy return by mail, be sure you do so. If you’re ever confused, you can contact a consulate or U.S. embassy for help.
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4. Request electronic ballot delivery.
This is listed as a question addressed to you on the FPCA form. Make sure you check the box for electronic ballot delivery, afterwards you’ll receive a blank ballot 45 days prior to the general election. In case you don’t receive your ballot 30 days before the election, vote at Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot instead.
5. Last step: mail your ballot!
The most important step also differs from state to state. Some states allow returns electronically while others require you to do it by mail. In any case, whether it’s too much work or not, be sure to follow through with this final step and make your voice heard!
