Below you'll find information about voting rights, where and when to vote, absentee ballots, early voting, and why you need to know about provisional ballots.
Know Your Rights
"The right of citizens of the United States, who are eighteen years of age or older, to vote shall not be denied or abridged by the United States
or any State on account of age."
26th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, ratified in 1971
However, young people and other groups of people have historically been marginalized as voters. Whether they are students, soldiers, out of the country, or have a criminal history, ALL U.S. citizens eighteen years of age or older have the right to cast a ballot on election day and have their vote counted.
Go here for the whole resource on voting rights that Rock the Vote put together.
So, you're eligible and you've registered to vote. Now what?
Voting at the Polls
Before you walk out the door on you way to perform your civic duty, there are a few things to check on. Since every state is different, you need to do a little research.
When you go to vote some states will require you to show some identification, anything from a student ID to an electric bill. Only three states—Florida, Georgia, and Indiana—require photo ID. If you're a first time voter, the requirements might be different. Check out Vote411.org for your state's requirements.
You can't just vote anywhere. First, you must find a polling place, the specific location where you will cast your ballot. Many times they are at schools, community centers, or churches.
When are the polls open? CanIVote.org will take you directly to your state's official election website, where you can find out what time polls open on November 4 down to the smallest details that could be really important.
Early Voting and Absentee Ballots
If for some reason, you know you are unable to make it out to the polls on November 4, you still have some options.
Some states offer a polling station for a period of time before the election so you can avoid the traffic of Election Day. Find out if your state has early voting as an option.
Absentee ballots are a great way to vote if you will not be in the area on election day or are unable to get to your polling place. If you have arranged to vote absentee, you will receive your ballot in the mail. All states offer absentee ballots, but the rules are different for each. Be sure to check the deadline and return your ballot by mail on time.
Provisional Ballots
So, you registered, you brought your proper ID, even your voting card, but the poll worker cannot find your name on the list. If you are at the right polling place, you can vote with a Provisional Ballot, which can be different state to state. After the polls close, the election officials will check on your registration status and any mistakes that could have taken place down the line. In the end, the State must tell you whether your ballot counted or not.
With all that said, it is possible that you had or will have trouble with your voting experience.
Trouble at the Polls
If you have a problem while you are voting and think that your rights were denied, you can call (866) OUR VOTE (866-687-8683). There will be lawyers there that can help guide you in the right direction.
The Student Association for Voter Empowerment will also be responding to voting irregularities and problems especially for youth and students. Just fill out a quick report form to let them know and the organization will get back to you.
