Voting Checklist for First Time Voters

Wow. This year has been one heck of a ride so far. 

How’s everyone doing? ARE WE OK??

Saying that this year’s election is significant is an understatement. Now more than ever, it has become evident how important it is to make sure you make your voice heard by voting. 

If you don’t think your vote counts, you are wrong. 

Your vote matters! You matter. This is your opportunity to be a part of the decision making that will shape your life and the world around you. That’s pretty awesome!

So, let’s make sure you are ready to go this Election Day. This voting checklist for first-time voters will help you understand the voting process so that you know what to expect at the polls and how to vote. 

Register to Vote

Registering to vote is super easy to do! Go to https://vote.gov/ to register now!

If you’ve voted before, make sure to check your voter registration. Even if you’ve voted in previous elections, state and local election offices tend to purge their lists from time to time.

Other reasons you may not be registered are if you’ve been inactive, moved, or sometimes there’s just an error. That’s why it’s better to check now so that you have peace of mind heading into the election deadline. 

You can start by going to usa.gov/election-office to confirm your registration status. If you’re on the list, make sure to double-check that all information, like your current mailing address, is up to date. 

Check Your Local & State Guidelines for Voting

Know your rights! Look into all your options and make sure you’re aware of all deadlines and voting options. For example, check to see if your state allows you to take time off to vote. 

• To find voter information by state: https://www.vote411.org/select-state
• To check when early voting begins in your state: https://www.vote.org/early-voting-calendar/

Find Your Polling Place (or Alternatives for In-Person Voting)

Find out where and how you can cast your vote in this year’s elections. I recommend checking out all your options early on so that you can evaluate what option works best for you.

• To find polling places in your area: https://www.vote.org/polling-place-locator/ 
• Mail-in absentee voting has been a hot topic this year, thanks to coronavirus. Make sure you do your homework to find out what your state regulations allow you to do. For example: 
  • Some states are giving all voters the option to mail-in vote due to coronavirus, or they may automatically send you a mail-in ballot. 
  • You might be able to exchange your uncast absentee ballot for an in-person one, but check your state or local election guidelines for specific procedures.
  • If you receive a mail-in ballot, you may have the option of turning your completed ballot by mail, dropbox, or in-person. Again, check your local and state guidelines. 

See What’s On Your Ballot

Check out what will be on your ballot in the upcoming election.

As the election date gets closer, you’ll start to see lots of political ads running to influence how you vote. And while those ads will do a good job bringing awareness to specific issues, it’s imperative to take the time to do your own research. 

For tips on researching and making sure you’re casting informed votes this year, check out my How to Be An Informed Voter post. 

There’s a lot on the line in this year’s election. Being an informed voter allows you to select candidates based on their stated platforms without relying on party propaganda or media coverage.

Being informed ensures that your vote counts towards candidates and platforms that support your beliefs. 

Check to see if you need an ID to vote!

Before you leave the house, check your state regulations to confirm what type of ID is required to vote. According to federal law, first-time voters must bring a valid photo ID or a bill, pay stub, or government document showing their name and current address.

Vote!

Take advantage of this opportunity and exercise your right to be heard. Vote for the change that you wish to see.

“A vote is the best way of getting the kind of country and the kind of world you want.”

Harry s. truman

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