Illinois early voting starts as vote-by-mail ballots go out

With 40 days until the election, Illinois residents can vote early at their local county clerks’ office. Vote-by-mail ballots should arrive soon, but there is still time to apply for one.

Sept. 26 marks the first day Illinois voters can start submitting their choices, as both early in-person voting begins and mail ballots are received and may be returned ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

Here’s what you need to know.

What’s on the ballot?

You’ll be voting for U.S. president, U.S. representative, Illinois state senator, Illinois state representative and some county leaders. Depending on where you live, there are races for Illinois Supreme Court justice, appellate judge, circuit judge and retention of some judges.

There are statewide advisory questions on election workers, in vitro fertility and increasing income taxes on some Illinoisans to provide property tax relief for others. There are also local questions ranging from public pension reform to tax increases. Chicago is electing 10 school board members.

When does early voting open?

Per the Election Code, Illinois voters may begin in-person voting Sept. 26, which is 40 days before the general election. The same date applies to voting by mail.

Who can vote by mail?

Under Illinois law, any registered Illinois voter can choose to vote by mail. Voters can click here to download a vote-by-mail registration form and should submit it to their local election authority.

What’s permanent vote by mail?

Voters can register to receive all their ballots in the mail for all elections. Voters can still vote in person but must take their mail ballot and surrender it to the election judges. Find more information about permanent vote-by-mail registration here.

How do I vote in person?

The first step to voting, either in person or using vote by mail, is to ensure you’re registered. Not sure if you’re registered? Click here.

Where can I vote early in person?

Illinois residents should contact their local county clerk’s office for information on early voting locations and permanent early voting locations or check the Illinois State Board of Elections early voting center location tool.

Important dates, deadlines

Tuesday, Oct. 8 – Last day for voter registration using mailed-in forms. Forms must be post-marked by Oct 8. Voters can still register online or in person at the polls. Voters should confirm with their county clerk’s office which polling places will accept same-day registration.

Sunday, Oct. 20 – Last day for online voter registration. Residents can register online at the Illinois State Board of Elections website.

Thursday, Oct. 31 – Last day for vote-by-mail requests to be completed online or received by the election authority if mailed, emailed or delivered in person.

Tuesday, Nov. 5 – Election Day. Polls are open 6 a.m.–7 p.m. Mail-in ballots must be postmarked by this date.

Other election information

What dates should I know this election?

How do I vote early in Illinois?

Here’s what to know about Chicago’s 31 school board candidates