FAQs

How will COVID-19 impact voting?

The COVID-19 pandemic threatens our right to a safe and secure election. It is the job of local and state officials to protect our right to vote while adapting to meet health and safety needs. As a result of the pandemic, we urge every Minnesotan voter who can to vote absentee before Election Day. This will keep you and your community safe by reducing crowds on Election Day. 

How do I vote absentee?

Check-out our “Absentee Voting” page or visit MN.votes.org for help applying for or submitting your absentee ballot.

Do I need an excuse to vote absentee?

No. In Minnesota, you do not need an excuse to vote absentee. Any eligible voter who has a mailing address may vote this way. 

Do I need a witness to sign my absentee ballot? 

Most years, absentee ballots require a witness signature. However, in 2020, your ballot will be accepted without a witness signature for the Aug. 11th Primary Election as long as you are already registered to better protect those voters who live alone from exposure to COVID-19. If you are not yet registered to vote, you will need a witness to sign off on your ballot. 

Can I vote absentee if I am not a registered voter?

Yes. If you are not a registered voter, you can apply for an absentee ballot on MNvotes.org, and registration documents will be mailed to you with your absentee ballot.

Can someone else drop-off my absentee ballot for me?

Yes. Eligible Minnesota voters may drop-off ballots for up to three other voters before 3pm on Election Day. They will need to show identification to election workers and sign when they do so. 

How do I know if my vote was counted?

You can check the status of your absentee ballot here. Your absentee ballot will be counted as long as it: 1) has no errors and 2) arrives before the voting deadline of 3pm drop-off or 8pm by mail. If any of these are not true, your ballot can be rejected.

What if my ballot is rejected?

Your absentee ballot can be rejected if any portion of it is filled out incorrectly. If your ballot is marked as rejected prior to 5 days before Election Day, your local election office should mail you a replacement ballot. If your ballot is marked as rejected within 5 days of Election Day, the ballot board must try to contact you by phone or email so you can cast a ballot in another way. 

What if I made a mistake on my absentee ballot?

If you make a mistake on your ballot, contact your local election office so they can send you a replacement ballot. If there is not enough time for you to receive and return a replacement ballot before Election Day, cross out the name of the candidate you accidentally marked completely and mark a new candidate. You do not need to make any additional markings.

What if my ballot is lost or damaged?

If your ballot is lost or damaged, contact your local election office so they can send you a replacement ballot. They will cancel your original ballot. Fill-out and send in your replacement ballot; do not send in your original ballot. 

How do I cancel an absentee ballot?

If you change your mind about a candidate, you can cancel your absentee ballot up to seven days before Election Day by contacting your local election office. Once they’ve canceled your ballot you can submit a new ballot by mail, in-person at your local election office, or at the polls on Election Day. 

How do I vote absentee if I am in the hospital?

If you are a long-term resident at a nursing home or other long-term care facility, you can vote absentee via agent delivery by visiting MNvotes.org. If you become a resident or patient in a healthcare facility (ie. licensed hospital, sanitarium, licensed nursing home, or other authorized institution) on the day before Election Day, you may apply for an absentee ballot if you either:

1. Submit an absentee ballot application through the normal process;

2. Submit an absentee ballot application to the election judges engaged in delivering absentee ballots;

3. Request an absentee ballot from your municipal clerk by telephone no later than 5pm on the day before Election Day. 

What if I need to vote in-person on Election Day?

Polling locations will be open for in-person voting on Election Day, but we encourage all who can to vote early or absentee. If you must vote in-person, try to go to the polls at an off-peak time and be sure to wear a mask. Election workers will be enforcing social distancing policies and disinfecting voting equipment to keep you and others safe.

Where is my polling location?

Many polling locations have moved out of long-term care facilities or schools in response to COVID-19. Be sure to look up your polling location here before your vote in-person.