print | email

Massachusetts

A State-by-State Guide to Absentee Voting

How do I request an absentee ballot?
Applications must be made in writing, in the form of a letter, postcard, or the official application form, and include your name, registered address, ward and precinct (if known), mailing address, party selection for the primary, and signature. Mail or hand-deliver your application to your city/town clerk. For official applications, go here.

Where do I send the request?
The address for your city or town clerk can be found at this website.

What is the deadline for requesting an absentee ballot?
The application must be received no later than noon the day before Election Day:
Feb 4 for the Primary Election
November 3 for the General Election
You are advised to send your application earlier to ensure that you receive and return your absentee ballot by Election Day.

What is the voting procedure?
Vote the ballot and return it to your city/town clerk.

What are the deadlines for voting absentee?
The complete ballot must be received by time polls close on Election Day:
Primary Election: Feb 5
General Election: November 4

What are the election dates and deadlines for 2008?
Primary Election: Feb 5
General Election: November 4
Voter registration closes 20 days prior to Election Day.

How do I contact the Secretary of State / election officials?
William F. Galvin
Secretary of the Commonwealth
Citizen Information Service
One Ashburton Place, Room 1611
Boston, MA 02108-1512
Tel: 617-727-7030
Fax: 617-742-4722
E-mail: cis@sec.state.ma.us
http://www.sec.state.ma.us

Secretary of the Commonwealth
Elections Division
McCormack Building, Room 1705
One Ashburton Place
Boston, MA 02108
Tel: 617-727-2828
Fax: 617-742-3238
Toll-free: 1-800-462-VOTE
E-mail: elections@sec.state.ma.us

Is permanent absentee status available?
No.

Additional information:
FAQ on Absentee Voting
A family member who is qualified to vote absentee can also apply absentee for you.

Application here