What you need to know about voting in Wisconsin before and on Nov. 8

Election Day, Nov. 8th, is now less than four weeks away. Barring any last-minute, court-ordered changes to Wisconsin’s current voting laws, here is what needs to be known to vote — and how to get involved to help others vote:

Early, absentee voting is available now

 *Guide to voting with an early, absentee ballot – in person or by mail

If voting by mail with an absentee ballot, make sure the witness who signs the ballot certificate envelope includes the voter’s address with street number, street name and municipality. Due to a recent change in Wisconsin’s voting law, if this information is not included, the absentee ballot will not be counted.

Voters must be registered to vote at their current address. If the voter is not, or is unsure if they are, see this information on voter registration options and deadlines.

Voters will need to present one of the acceptable forms of photo ID for voting.  (See image at right)

For more information about voter photo ID – and how to get a free ID acceptable for voting – see this downloadable voter ID fact sheet or visit Bring It to the Ballot.

If voters do not have an acceptable ID for voting and need help getting one, contact one of these two Voter ID Hotlines: (608) 729-7720 or (414) 882-8622.

College students voting in Wisconsin

*Here are “Three Things College Students Need to Do To Vote in Wisconsin”

Rides to the polls

Common Cause in Wisconsin is currently identifying and recruiting organizations and individuals statewide willing to give free rides to the polls on Election Day and/or during the early voting period. To be a part of this effort to help people get to the polls, contact Common Cause in Wisconsin  or phone (608-658-2109) to be added to the list of drivers within the community.

Protecting the integrity of the Nov. 8 election

Sign up and receive training to be a poll worker — Municipalities across the state are shorthanded and are looking for people who can work at their polling place. Contact your local municipal clerk for more information.

Volunteer to be an election observer — The League of Women Voters of Wisconsin is training nonpartisan poll observers across the state to watch for signs of voter disenfranchisement and intimidation, and to monitor the way new election laws and procedures are being applied. Sign up now using the League’s online Election Observer Volunteer Form.

See also: “What you need to know about early absentee voting in Wisconsin”