Voting FAQ     

Q: I’m a member of Democrats Abroad and I voted in the Global Presidential Primary this spring. Am I registered for November 4?

A: Probably not. In order to vote, you must be registered with your local election office in your home state. Your state, not Democrats Abroad, is conducting the election. You must register yourself; we aren’t allowed to do it for you.

Q: I voted from abroad in the 2004 and 2006 elections. Do I need to re-register again this year?

A: Yes. Everyone must re-register in 2008 to vote in the 2008 election. If you’re not sure if you’re registered, you can do it again just to be sure. Do it before the end of September — in fact, the sooner, the better.

Q: Can I vote if I never voted before or never lived in the United States?

A: Yes. All American citizens born before November 4, 1990, can vote. You can register to vote at http://www.VoteFromAbroad.org, and the website will guide you through all the details. You must register to vote at the last address where you or your parents lived in the United States.

Q: What happens at www.VoteFromAbroad.org?

A. The site will ask you a series of questions. Because every state has slightly different requirements for voting, the site will gather the information you need for your particular state. Then print, sign, and send in the form to the address that VoteFromAbroad gives you. The site also allows you to print an addressed envelope. The site is confidential, and it will register everyone regardless of their voting preference.

Q: What if my ballot doesn’t arrive in time?

A: You should get your ballot from your state in mid-October. If it doesn’t arrive, you can use a Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot. You can get one as a PDF that is based on your state’s requirements, along with detailed instructions, at http://www.VoteFromAbroad.org. If your regular ballot arrives later, you can use it, and your local election officials will count it instead of the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot. A special FAQ about the Federal Write-In Ballot is at: http://www.votefromabroad.org/faq.php?adid=KDAW9990001071701

Q: When should I send in my ballot?

A: Although some states have deadlines for absentee ballots after November 4, it’s good to mail it early. Fill it out, sign it, and mail it as soon as it arrives to be sure you beat your state’s deadline. Remember to use enough postage.

Q: Will I have to pay taxes if I vote?

A: No, if you only vote for federal offices: President, Senator, and Congressional Representative. Some states may require you to pay state or local taxes if you vote for state or local offices or referenda. Consult http://www.fvap.gov/ or a legal advisor if you need more information.

If you have more questions:

You can find state-by-state deadlines including special deadlines for military voters, state voter registration links, and more details about taxes at: https://www.democratsabroad.org/vote

You (and your friends) can send your voting questions to votercentral@democratsabroad.org Our experts will be glad to answer you! Every vote counts, especially yours.