Voting by Absentee Ballot
Under Wisconsin law, voters do not need a reason or excuse to request an Absentee ballot. Any voter who prefers to vote by absentee ballot may request one for each election.
To request an absentee ballot, you have to submit a request in writing to the clerk's office (see below on ways to do that).
If you are not already registered, you will need to register to vote before an absentee ballot can be sent to you. A new voter registration application is required any time you move (even minor changes such as apartment units), change your name, or if you have not voted in the past four years. Check the myvote.wi.gov website to see if you are already registered.
Photo ID is Typically Required to Apply for an Absentee Ballot
Unless you are a military voter, permanently overseas, or are indefinitely confined, you must provide the Election Commission with a copy of your photo ID with your written absentee ballot application. The address on the ID does not need to be current.
Click here for a list of acceptable photo IDs.
What is the deadline to request an Absentee Ballot?
- Applications for absentee ballots must be received no later than 5:00 p.m. on the Thursday before the election.
- The easiest way to request an absentee ballot is at myvote.wi.gov
- Unless you are disabled and permanently confirmed to your home or a member of the military, you will need to provide a scan of your Photo ID to request an absentee ballot online.
What is the deadline to return my completed Absentee Ballot?
- Your ballot must arrive by Election Day to be counted.
- If you are within 10 days of election, or are worried your ballot won't get to us in time, you can drop off your ballot at an early voting site.