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 voting?
Yes. All absentee voters are required to submit a photocopy of an acceptable photo ID or an ID Exception Form along with their absentee ballot. Click here for more information on photo ID for absentee voters.
Who is qualified to vote an absentee ballot?
Any registered voter may vote an absentee ballot. No reason is required.
How can I receive an absentee ballot?
In order to receive an absentee ballot, you must first complete a request form. This form is available in the Request an Absentee Ballot section of this page and via the Absentee Request Portal. The form must be completed and returned in-person, through the Absentee Request Portal, or by mail. You will not be able to receive an absentee 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 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 ballot by completing the required request form.
I have completed my absentee ballot request form. Is there a way to track when my ballot will arrive?
To track your absentee ballot through BallotTrax, click here.
May I mail my voted absentee ballot together with another voter's absentee ballot in the same envelope?
No. Each voter receives an absentee 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 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 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 voting and other services provided by a Multipartisan Assistant Team (MAT), by reviewing the information at this link: Assistance for Voters in Care Facilities.