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Voting

You Can Make a Difference

ID Requirements

Massachusetts does not have a voter ID law. However, according to the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website, a voter may be asked to show ID at the polling station if: 

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  • They are voting for the first time in Massachusetts in a federal election;

  • They are an inactive voter;

  • They are casting a provisional or challenged ballot;

  • The poll worker has a reasonable suspicion that leads them to request identification.

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More details can be found on the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website.

Where Do We Vote?

Voters can locate their polling location on the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website or by contacting their local election official.

When Do We Vote?

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NOTE: Per the Secretary of Commonwealth's website, "the deadline to register to vote in any election or regular town meeting is twenty (20) days prior to the date of the election or meeting. The deadline to register to vote in a special town meeting is ten (10) days prior to the special town meeting."

Early Voting

In 2016, the 2014 Election Reform Law was implemented. This law permits early voting for 11 business days preceding Election Day. Hours for early voting occur during the usual business hours for the town or city clerk.

Absentee Voting

Massachusetts permits absentee voting for one of three reasons: 

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  • You will be away from your city/town on Election Day; or

  • You have a disability that keeps you from voting at your polling place; or

  • You have a religious belief that prevents you from voting at your polling place on Election Day

 

Absentee ballot applications can be downloaded from the Secretary of the Commonwealth's website. ​

Vote-by-Mail

In 2021, Massachusetts extended its temporary vote-by-mail law. Eligible voters do not need an excuse to vote by mail. The Vote-by-Mail Application must be submitted to their local election official in time to receive a ballot by mail. The Secretary of the Commonwealth suggests requesting a vote-by-mail ballot 14 days in advance an election, and returning ballots seven days in advance of an election to ensure delivery.

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