With the presidential election looming, you might be coming up with a plan to vote. Whether you are voting in person or by mail, it’s important to plan ahead and avoid things that could disqualify your ballot. Here we’ll discuss 7 common voting mistakes that could make your vote not count.
1. Ballot Submitted Too Late
If you are mailing in a ballot, make sure you pay attention to deadlines. Every state has different requirements. If you are unsure of your state’s deadlines, you can visit vote.org. Your ballot will be disqualified if your ballot isn’t postmarked or received by the deadline.
2. Issues with Your Signature
Only correctly signed ballots will be accepted. If your ballot is missing a signature it also will be disqualified. Make sure that your signature matches the one on your voter registration. If it doesn’t this could also disqualify your ballot.
3. Insufficient Documentation
Thirty-six states have laws requiring voters to show some form of identification at the polls. The remaining 14 states and Washington, D.C., use other methods like a signature to verify the identity of voters. Examples include witness signature, copy of photo ID, or notary seal. If you fail to provide this documentation, you may not be allowed to vote.
4. Wrong Polling Location
Polling places and collection boxes change frequently. Make sure you know where your polling place is and their hours. It’s important to have a solid plan on election day to make it to the polls on time. You don’t want to miss the opportunity to vote.
5. Problems with Postage
If you are mailing in your ballot, first you need to make sure you use sufficient postage. Some states pre-pay for postage, but not all. Additionally, make sure you use the proper envelope for your ballot. When your ballot arrives it comes with everything you need Your ballot packet includes everything you need. This includes an interior privacy-shield and exterior return-mail/drop-off envelopes. If you use the wrong envelope or mail in an empty envelope by mistake, your vote won’t be counted.
6. Improperly Filled Out Ballot
Make sure that you follow all instructions on your ballot. Using the wrong ink can disqualify your ballot. In addition, improperly filling out the ovals next to your selection could disqualify your ballot. Don’t go outside the lines, use X’s or checkmarks on your ballot.
7. Overvoting
According to Ballotpedia, an overvote occurs when an individual casts more votes in a contest than is allowed. This results in a spoiled vote. As a result, the vote will not be counted. Make sure that you are voting appropriately for your vote to count.
Don’t Have Your Vote Disqualified
Remember, voting gives us the power to create change in our communities, states, and nation. Exercising our right to vote is one of the benefits of our democracy. It’s not just a right, but a responsibility that allows us to influence policies, leadership, and the direction of our society. Make sure that your voice is heard by avoiding these common voting mistakes.