Voting is a great way to have a say in the direction of the government and this is especially true for the upcoming elections in New York City. Questions about subjects like who’s running, how and when to vote, and what constitutes a valid vote can become convoluted, making many voters give up before they get to the polls. To help make the voting experience easier, here’s everything you need to know about your NYC election ballot: putting a stamp on it (or two!)
What Is a Ballot?
A ballot is the document that allows a person to cast their vote. In NYC, the ballots typically come as a white sheet of paper with ballot options and boxes printed on it. It’s important that you fill out the ballot correctly and securely so that your vote is counted.
Before You Vote
Before you vote it’s important to do some research into the candidates and issues on the ballot. This research may include reading up on candidate bios, looking into their past positions and voting records as well as reading about any proposed amendments or initiatives.
Additionally you’ll want to make sure you’re registered to vote in New York City and that you are eligible for the upcoming election. It’s also important to check that your name is listed on the poll book if you vote in person and whether or not mailed ballots must include postage.
Casting Your Vote
Once you’re prepared and ready to vote, it’s time to cast your ballot. This is done by reading the instructions at the top of the ballot, filling in the bubbles or check boxes next to your choices, and finally by signing your name in the designated space. If you accidentally make a mistake or change your mind, don’t worry – as long as you do not sign your name, you can throw away the ballot and ask for a new one.
Mailed Ballots
If you’re voting by mail in New York City, you’ll need to make sure your a ballot is sealed properly in the enclosed yellow envelope and signed in the designated space on the envelope. Once your ballot is complete, you’ll need to mail it using the appropriate postage which is typically based on the weight of the envelope and contents.
It is extremely important that you carefully check the expiration date on your postmark as ballots must be postmarked by the election date to be counted. Additionally, beware of timing because it may take a few days to arrive at its destination.
Public Drop Box Locations
Voters in New York City can also drop off their ballots in public drop boxes located throughout the city. It’s important to make sure you drop off your ballot in an official box that’s been designated by your county or borough.
Only ballots that are marked as “indefinitely registered” are allowed to be dropped off in public drop boxes. These are marked on the envelope your ballot is sent in but you can always confirm with your local election office if you’re unsure.
Polling Locations
Other voters may prefer to cast their ballot in a polling location. Polling locations are where registered voters are able to cast their ballots on the day of the election. These locations are typically found in churches, schools, libraries and other community centers, and each one is supervised by election workers.
On the day of the election, you’ll have to bring the ID required by your local polling place which may include a valid driver’s license, Social Security card, or a utility bill or bank statement with your name. Private or federal government issued documents like a pilot or military ID are not accepted.
What Happens After You Vote?
Hooray, you’ve successfully cast your vote! Now that your ballot is done and you’re on your way out of the polling location, you may have noticed a small stamp that your ballot was marked with. This is a simple way for the polling place to remember who already voted and prevent any potential voter fraud.
It’s very important to keep this stamp safe and not lose it. If you do need to replace it, you should contact your local election office and request an affidavit. This is a form that will need to be completed, signed and notarized, and will serve as proof that you voted in the election.
With everything we’ve discussed above, you’re now ready to cast your vote in the upcoming election! It’s important that you’re equipped with the right information and familiar with the official process so that you can have an easy and successful experience at the voting booth. No matter the result, you’ve worked hard to make sure your voice is heard and that’s something that should be celebrated. Now it’s time to put a stamp on it (or two!) and cast your vote!
