Frequently Asked Questions - Vote By Mail

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Permanent vote-by-mail is an option that allows registered voters to receive a ballot for every election automatically through mail. It's intended to make voting easier for those who prefer to vote by mail, have physical challenges getting to a polling place, or are often out of town on election day. 

No, registering to vote by mail permanently does not restrict you to only voting by mail. If you decide to vote in person instead, you should bring your mail-in ballot to the polling station.

Every registered voter in Will County, Illinois, can apply for permanent vote-by-mail status. 

You should contact the Will County Clerk's office to cancel your permanent vote-by-mail status. This process can typically be done by sending a written request through mail or email. 

To verify your vote-by-mail status, check online at the Will County election office website or contact the Will County Clerk's office directly for assistance. 

-Return by mail: You can mail your completed ballot in the postage-paid envelope provided. 

-Dropbox: You can drop your completed ballot around the county in a secure drop box. 

-Early vote: If you decide to vote early in person, bring your mail-in ballot to be voided at the polling station. 

-Polling place/Election day: If you decide to vote in person on election day, bring your mail-in ballot to be voided at your polling place. 

VBM processes are designed with numerous safeguards. They include verification of voter identity through signature matching, secure printing and delivery of ballots, and precise tracking, collecting, and counting methods. All these processes are conducted under the oversight of local election officials to ensure their integrity. 

After the election office receives your mailed ballot, you can track its status online through the Will County election office's website. This system will inform you when your ballot has been received and counted as a vote. 

Vote-by-mail secures your vote more by not exposing it to the last-minute mishaps that could occur on election day, such as long lines, transportation issues, or sudden illness. Additionally, it allows for a more thorough verification process, including signature matching and the opportunity to correct any issues with your ballot, such as a missing signature, before it's counted. Furthermore, it allows you to vote at your own pace and time, allowing for more thoughtful decision-making.