The June 23 primary elections are fast approaching. Given the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the current restrictions, you may be wondering, “How do I vote?” Well, you have three options:
Option 1: Mail-in Absentee Ballot (application deadline is today!)
If you never want to step foot in the polls, vote Absentee.
To prevent the spread of COVID-19, Gov. Andrew Cuomo signed an executive order making absentee ballots available to all registered voters. You must apply ahead to receive an absentee ballot. If you’re requesting the absentee ballot because you don’t want to risk contracting COVID-19, check “temporary illness” as the reason why you’re requesting the ballot.
The application for absentee ballots and instructions for how to apply are available online on the New York City Board of Elections website. The application can be submitted online, by email, fax, snail mail or by calling 1-866-VOTE-NYC (1-866-868-3692).
Once you submit your application, watch your mail for the ballot. When you receive it, simply fill it out and mail it back! The ballot must be postmarked by June 23.
NOTE: Today, June 16, is the last day to apply for an absentee ballot. If you are applying by mail, your application must be postmarked today at the latest.
Option 2: Early Voting
If you want to go to the polls (and get your fun “I voted” sticker to shame your friends who didn’t vote), but want to hopefully avoid lines and crowds so you can properly social distance, vote early.
This is New York City’s second go around with early voting. Early voting works like regular voting –– you show up at a poll site and cast your ballot –– except you have more time to do it. Early voting started on Saturday, June 13 and runs through Sunday, June 21.
Be careful though. Early voting poll sites are different from election poll sites and there are fewer of them so you’re most likely not going to the same place you would go to vote on election day.
To find your early voting poll site, visit New York City’s poll site locator and type in your address. The poll site locator website will also give you a sample ballot for your district so you can see who’s on your ballot and do your research ahead of time.
For a list of early voting poll sites, their addresses, phone numbers, and hours, visit the New York City Board of Elections website.
Option 3: Voting on Election Day
Finally, if you want to vote in-person at the polls on election day itself, you can.
The polls will be open on June 23. To find your election day poll site and a sample ballot, use the poll site locator.
Just remember to wear your mask, wash your hands and keep your distance.
Onward and vote! Or don’t! It’s your choice!
