One week ahead of Election Day, voters encouraged to return absentee ballots to clerk, drop box

Ahead of Election Day for hundreds of Michigan jurisdictions, voters should hand deliver their absentee ballots to their clerk’s office or local drop box to avoid postal delays. Absentee ballots must be received by the voter’s city or township clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day, Nov. 2, to be counted.

“One week ahead of local elections, returning your absentee ballot to your clerk’s office or local drop box by hand is a secure option to ensure your vote is counted and your voice is heard,” said Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson. “Whether you choose to vote with an absentee ballot or in person on Election Day, you can be confident your ballot will be handled and counted securely.”

Voters can find the locations of their clerk offices and ballot drop boxes at Michigan.gov/Vote. They can also track their ballot on the website to ensure it is received by their clerk

Registered voters who do not yet have an absentee ballot can visit their local clerk’s office to request, complete and submit one all in one trip prior to 4 p.m. on Nov. 1. Eligible citizens who have not yet registered can also do so at their clerk’s office and then request and vote an absentee ballot in one trip through 8 p.m. on Election Day.

Clerk’s offices are required to be open for eight hours the weekend before every election. Voters should contact their local clerk for their hours of operation this weekend.