“Voting is the expression of our commitment to ourselves, one another, this country and this world.” -Sharon Salzberg
After moving, one very important thing that you shouldn’t forget about doing is to change your voter registration address. The process to ensure that you reserve your right to vote is pretty simple. However, if you aren’t informed you could end up forfeiting your right to vote. Keep reading because we are answering all of the common questions regarding moving and voter registration!
How do you change your voter registration?
To find out if your state offers online voter registration, requires voter registration to be submitted by mail, or to discover what the deadline is for registration, check out this helpful guide. Usually, voter registration forms can be found online (check your state’s “.gov” website) or you can check your local library, post office, university, and government offices for a paper copy. If you’re in the state of Texas, the deadline for registration is October 11, 2016!
How long does it take to receive your voter registration card?
It takes most states about one to two months to change your voting registration address. You’ll know when you are officially registered because you will receive a voter registration card in the mail. If you don’t receive your registration and it has been over two months you can call your local office, or you can check online using this free tool to see if your registration has gone through.
What if I move right before an election?
There are a few states who will allow same-day registration for early voting and on election day. However, most states unfortunately do not. If you are going to be temporarily away or moving to a temporary residence you can send in an absentee ballot. If you are a student, check this guide for state-by-state guides on voting. If you move between states and miss the registration deadline and your new home state does not offer election day registration you will not be able to vote.
In Conclusion
After moving you will probably have a long list of addresses that you need to change to your new location. While you’re changing the address for your power bill, monthly subscriptions, and internet; make sure that you take the time to change your voter registration. Remember, every vote counts!