Answers to 10 Election Day Questions You Didn’t Even Know You Had

Before you leave your house to vote, make sure you have the right identification card or documents! Every state has different requirements, so search for your state right here and be prepared.

Well, that depends on how strict your state is regarding its requirements. Some states let you vote if you sign a statement saying that you are who you say you are, or if you get someone to vouch for your identity. Other states may let you cast a provisional ballot that will be counted if you come back within a certain period of time with a valid ID.

No problem! Because of the pandemic (combined, in some states, with local voter-suppression efforts), many polling places have closed or changed locations this year, so the best thing to do is make sure you’re at the right site. If your polling place has changed, you’ll likely have to travel to that new location to cast your ballot.

If you confirm that you’re at the right place but poll workers can’t find your name on the list of registered voters, then ask them if they’re able to consult a statewide voter database (not all states have such a thing). If they can’t do that or they’re unable to find evidence of your registration, then you have the right to request a provisional ballot. Also, be sure to check if you live in one of the many states that now allow same-day voter registration

The answer to this question is very simple because the law is very clear: Voter intimidation is illegal. Call 1-866-OUR-VOTE and report it.

Long lines at the polls are another form of voter suppression—unfortunately, we’ve been seeing them a lot this election season. If you are in a long line and have to leave for some reason, you’ll have to relinquish your spot and head to the end when you get back. (Pro tip: Bring a friend or family member with you to hold your spot!). BUT, if it’s getting late and officials say that the polling place is closing, DO NOT GET OUT OF LINE. If you are in line before the polls close, you have the right to cast your vote—and officials are obligated to stay open as long as necessary to accommodate everyone who’s been waiting.

Under federal law, all polling places must be accessible to everyone. You are entitled to cast your vote in private and you’re entitled to ask a worker (or bring along a family member) to help you. If you encounter any problems, anything from a lack of accessible parking to an unwillingness from poll workers to help you, call 1-866-OUR-VOTE.

Unfortunately, it’s pretty common for voting machines to break down, resulting in longer lines and delays. But don’t accept that you can’t vote if the voting machines are down! Ask a poll worker for an emergency paper ballot. You have the right to have your voice heard.

Ask for a new one! We’ve all been there, cruising through the ballot happy as can be until we start filling in the wrong oval. Just ask the nearest poll worker for a new ballot and you’ll be back to voting in no time.

What a great idea! You deserve it. And if that “I Voted” sticker isn’t doing quite enough to express your pride and joy, might we suggest some Justice ReMix’d? As our friend, the late Congressman John Lewis, used to say “the vote is precious, almost sacred. It is the most powerful nonviolent tool or instrument we have in a democratic society and we must use it.” A vote this year is a vote for justice, equality, fairness, and a stronger democracy. Thank you for doing your part.