Voting 101: Tips & Resources

☑ Before You Vote

• Check your Louisiana voter registration and if not active, make sure to register to vote.
• Know your state election information, including registration deadlines, early voting dates, absentee ballot requirements, and identification requirements.
  • Learn about how COVID-19 may be impacting the election in your state.
• If planning to vote by mail, request an absentee ballot.
  • Check the qualifications for early and absentee ballot voting for your region.
• Sign up for election reminders (i.e., text, email).
• Locate your polling place, and make a plan for how to safely return your ballot.
  • If you have concerns on making sure your ballot gets counted or questions on open polling sites, contact your local county clerk to ask how they plan to secure your ballot.

🏃🚗 Voting In Person Arrangements 🚲💃

• Make sure your polling location remains open for in-person voting.
• Some counties have the option to consolidate polling places amid COVID-19–ensure yours remains open by contacting your local county clerk. Take careful considerations for voting in person at polling locations amid COVID-19, as increased individual interactions lead to higher risk of spread.
• Remember to bring an acceptable photo or non-photo ID to the polls–identification requirements vary by state.
• Plan for transit issues and delays amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Stay on the lookout for organizations offering free rides on election day.
• Wear your personal protective equipment (PPE) to ensure your safety and the safety of others. Consider brining extra PPE for other fellow voters.

​📬 Voting By Mail Arrangements 📭

• Request your mail-in ballot:
  • Check your state election office for specific rules for your state. You must be registered to vote before you will be sent an absentee ballot.
  • If your state doesn’t automatically send you an absentee ballot or form to fill out, request one – use this website to help you complete an absentee ballot request.
  • Plan for absentee ballot deadlines and which elections are coming up in your state.
•  Returning your absentee ballot:
  • Learn about your options to exercise absentee or early voting in your state.
  • Mail or drop off your ballot as soon as can.
• If you prefer to hand-in your ballot in-person:
  • Check with your state or local election office for specific procedures before you go.
  • If available, you can take your absentee ballot to your designated polling place on Election Day.

Your polling place may change, due to COVID-19, so check before you go. You may either uncast your absentee ballot for an in-person ballot or you will complete an absentee ballot to be turned in.