Early voting starts in Cook County for Nov. 8 elections

Cook County voters can now visit any of the 53 polling locations countywide to cast their ballot for the Nov. 8 general elections. Illinoisians can still choose to permanently vote by mail until Nov. 3.

Cook County residents can cast their ballot in person for Nov. 8 general elections starting Oct. 24 as polling places open countywide for early voting.

Registered voters can now visit all 53 Cook County polling locations any day of the week until 7 p.m. on Election Day. You can find polling locations and voting times here.

If you are not registered to vote, Illinoisans can still sign up in person at a polling place up until Election Day. Online voter registration ended Oct. 23.

Additionally, state residents can file an application to vote by mail in Illinois. Online requests must be completed or received by the election authority if mailed, emailed or delivered in person by the Nov. 3 deadline.

Studies show mail-in voting could increase voter turnout at Illinois’ general elections by as many as 216,000 residents. Mail ballots give voters more time to review their choices and conduct research on candidates and policies.

If you’re still undecided about registering to vote by mail in Illinois, consider the following benefits:

1. Election security: By claiming your vote, you block anyone else from voting in your name. Once registered, your ballot will come to your mailing address. All ballots received by the county clerk must be approved by a bipartisan panel that matches your signature and information with those on file.
2. Convenience: Requesting a mail-in ballot does not take away your right to vote in person. Vote-by-mail ballots can be returned in person at early voting and Election Day polling places if you decide to vote in person.
3. Certainty: Permanent vote-by-mail status assures that your vote is counted if you become sick or are forced to miss Election Day voting for unforeseen circumstances. You will receive a ballot for all future elections, so you never miss a vote.
4. Vote smart: Nobody likes wasting their vote. Registering to vote by mail means you can study all candidates, judges and ballot questions from the comfort of your home.

If you still have questions or concerns, take a look at our myths and facts guide to voting by mail in Illinois. Or if you don’t know whether you’re already registered, click here to find out.