WASHINGTON, DC — With Election Day less than three weeks away, the League of Women Voters is urging Americans to act now and vote early wherever possible by releasing five essential tips for navigating the election. Ahead of Vote Early Day on October 24, the League and its more than 800 state and local Leagues are helping voters understand their options, navigate voting requirements, and make their voices heard in the 2026 midterm elections.
With 94% of voters now able to vote early in some way, Americans across the country have an opportunity to cast their ballots before Election Day on November 3.
“Election Day is November 3, but your opportunity to use your power may start much sooner,” said Celina Stewart, CEO of the League of Women Voters. “Don't wait for Election Day. Find out when early voting begins in your community, and make a plan to cast your ballot. Voting early gives you more flexibility and more time to address unexpected problems. Your vote is your power, and now is the time to use it.”
The League’s Top 5 Tips for Voting in 2026
- Check Your Registration Status Right Away: Visit VOTE411.org/check-registration to confirm that you are registered to vote and that your information is accurate and up to date. If you cannot find your registration or believe your information is incorrect, contact your local election office or call 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683) for assistance.
- Know Your Local Early Voting Options: Early voting rules, locations, and hours vary significantly by state and sometimes by county. Determine whether in-person early voting, mail-in voting, or absentee balloting is allowed and fits your schedule.
- Research Your Specific Ballot: Go beyond federal races to examine local measures and candidates. Personalized, nonpartisan ballot information is available at VOTE411.org.
- Make a Concrete Voting Plan: Lock in the date, time, location, and method you will use to vote. If submitting a mail-in ballot, review postal deadlines and official drop-box locations immediately and return your ballot as soon as possible.
- Help 5 People Make a Voting Plan: Amplify your civic impact by ensuring family members, colleagues, and neighbors have verified their registration and made a voting plan.
Early voting options vary by state. Some voters can cast ballots in person before Election Day, while others may be eligible to vote by mail or absentee ballot. Deadlines, identification requirements, ballot return procedures, and early voting locations also vary. The Election Protection Coalition hotline is available to answer questions on or before Election Day. The hotline provides one-on-one assistance to voters with questions or problems that may arise. Call 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683) for assistance.
Through VOTE411.org, the League's trusted, nonpartisan election information resource, voters can find personalized information about their ballots, voting options, registration requirements, and important deadlines.
Don't wait until November 3. Find your early voting options and make your plan today at VOTE411.org.