When will ballots be mailed prior to an election?
In accordance with G.S. 163-227.10, absentee ballots will be made available as follows:
- Statewide General Elections in even-numbered years: 60 days prior to the election
- Other Non-Municipal Elections: 50 days prior to the election, unless 45 days is authorized by the State Board of Elections
- Municipal Elections: 30 days prior to the election
Is ID required for absentee by-mail voting?
Yes. Civilian and Military/Overseas absentee voters are required to submit a photocopy of acceptable photo ID or an ID Exception Form along with their absentee by-mail ballot. Click here for more information on photo ID for absentee by-mail voters.
Who is qualified to vote an absentee by-mail ballot?
Any registered voter may vote an absentee by-mail ballot. No reason is required.
How can I receive an absentee by-mail ballot?
In order to receive an absentee by-mail ballot, you must first complete a request form. This form is available here on our website or through the online submission portal. The form must be completed and returned in-person, through our online portal, or by mail. You will not be able to receive an absentee by-mail ballot unless this required form is properly completed and signed by the voter or requester. Click here for more information.
May I request an absentee by-mail ballot for someone else?
If you are a near relative, a verifiable legal guardian or a person the voter requests assistance from due to a disability, you may request an absentee by-mail ballot by completing the required request form.
I have completed my absentee by-mail ballot request form. Is there a way to track when my ballot will arrive?
To track your absentee by-mail ballot through BallotTrax, click here.
May I mail my voted absentee by-mail ballot together with another voter's absentee by-mail ballot in the same envelope?
No. Each voter receives an absentee by-mail ballot return envelope. That envelope is specific to each voter and should be returned only with that voter's completed ballot inside.
I am a visually impaired voter, is there an easy way for me to request and vote with an absentee by-mail ballot?
Visually impaired voters can request and vote with an accessible ballot through the Absentee Ballot Portal here.
I live in a care facility, how do I request an absentee by-mail ballot and vote?
If you live at a facility such as a hospital, clinic or nursing home, find out how to receive assistance with absentee by-mail voting and other services provided by a Multipartisan Assistant Team (MAT), by reviewing the information at this link: Assistance for Voters in Care Facilities.
