Political Dictionary
An absentee ballot is a ballot cast by a voter who does not vote in person at the voter’s regular polling place.
Definition
An absentee ballot is a ballot provided to an eligible voter for completion away from the usual Election Day polling place. Depending on state law, the voter may need an approved reason, or any voter may request one without an excuse. The ballot is usually returned by mail or authorized drop-off.
Why It Matters
Absentee voting enables participation by military personnel, overseas citizens, travelers, people with disabilities or illness, and others unable or unwilling to vote at a polling place.
How It Works
A voter requests a ballot by the deadline, election officials verify eligibility, and the voter completes and returns it with required identification or signature information. Officials review the return materials before counting.
History
Absentee voting expanded significantly during the Civil War for soldiers and later broadened through state legislation. No-excuse absentee voting is now available in many jurisdictions.
Example
A student attending college outside the home county requests an absentee ballot and returns it before the deadline.
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