Election Reminder: Oct. 6 is the last day to register to vote

Michigan Secretary of State sent this bulletin at 10/01/2014 11:37 AM EDT
Election Reminder from Secretary of State

Oct. 6 is the last day to register to vote for the Nov. 4 general election

Michigan votes website

People who aren't registered to vote have until Monday, Oct. 6 to register at any Secretary of State office, or at their county or local clerk's office.

Check your registration status at the Michigan Voter Information Center at www.Michigan.gov/vote.

You also can view your sample ballot as well as find your polling location and track your absentee ballot.

If you're already registered in Michigan but need to update your official address, you may be able to update your address online at www.ExpressSOS.com. 

How you can get an absentee ballot

Voters who qualify may choose to cast an absentee ballot. As a registered voter, you may obtain an absentee ballot if you are:

  • Age 60 or older.
  • Physically unable to attend the polls without the assistance of another.
  • Expecting to be absent from the community in which you are registered for the entire time the polls will be open on Election Day.
  • In jail awaiting arraignment or trial.
  • Unable to attend the polls due to religious reasons.
  • Appointed to work as an election inspector in a precinct outside of your precinct of residence.

Those who wish to receive an absentee ballot by mail must submit the application by 2 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 1. 

Visit us online to find out more.

Voter ID reminder

Voters will be asked to provide identification when they visit the polls on Election Day. 

They will be asked to present valid photo ID, such as a Michigan driver’s license or identification card. 

Anyone who does not have an acceptable form of photo ID or failed to bring it with them to the polls still may vote. They will be required to sign a brief affidavit stating that they’re not in possession of photo ID. Their ballots will be included with all others and counted on Election Day.

Find out more.

Voters may notice new text on ballot application 

Voters may notice a small change on their ballot application, both at the polls and if they are absentee voters. Under Michigan law, by signing the application, the voter certifies that he or she is a U.S. citizen. The revised application forms also remind voters that they must be citizens in order to vote.