Early &
Mail-in Voting
in Connecticut

Warning: Mail-in voting is a convenient and safe way to vote, but your ballot might not count if it's submitted late or with errors. So follow the directions below on how to vote early or absentee and make your vote count in Connecticut.

Note - this information below may change for your state due to ongoing litigation and legislation. This page will be updated within 24 hours of any change.

Vote Before Election Day

Vote By Mail Deadlines

09/11/2023
Deadline to Request Ballot (Received by)
09/12/2023
Deadline to Return Ballot (Received By)

In-Person Absentee Voting

You can vote in-person absentee in your state.

How Vote By Mail Works in Connecticut

Voting by mail is a two step process in Connecticut. Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. You must have an excuse to qualify to vote by mail with an absentee ballot. If you qualify, the deadline to apply for your absentee ballot is September 11th. You should apply well before that. We recommend at least three weeks prior to Election Day to accommodate for the mail, or that you submit the request in person. Step 2: Return your ballot ASAP.

  • Return in person to your town clerk or designated town dropbox by 8 p.m. on Election Day, September 12th.
  • Stamp and return by mail to your town clerk so that it is received by 8 p.m. on Election Day, September 12th. We recommend mailing your ballot at least two weeks before Election Day. The best intentions or postmark will not matter if your ballot is received after Election Day - your ballot will not count.

Request Your Ballot See Your Ballot Look Up Ballot Drop Off Locations

Excuse Needed to Vote Absentee

You need an excuse to request an absentee ballot. Excuses could include being sick or out of town, but it’s best to check with your state directly to see what counts as an excuse.

Remember to Sign Your Return Ballot

After completing your ballot, put it into the return envelope provided by the state. Sign the form on the inner ballot return envelope. Connecticut will throw away your ballot if you forget to sign the inner envelope.

Use The Right Form of ID

Connecticut voters must show valid photo ID when voting in person. Info here on what qualifies. You do not need to submit a copy of your photo ID when voting by mail.

How You Can Return Your Mail-in Ballot

By Mail

You must add a stamp when mailing in your ballot.

In Person

  • Local elections office
  • Drop box

An immediate family member may return your ballot.

Look Up Ballot Drop Off Locations

Make Sure Your Mail-in Vote Counts

You may track your ballot by using the Connecticut Voter Portal. If the page does not state that your ballot has been received, reach out to your town clerk. Your state does not offer voters a chance to address challenges to their ballot. Your ballot will not count if it is late, or you do not follow directions.

Haven't used your ballot?

If you would like to vote in person, return your unused absentee ballot to your polling site if possible and request an in-person ballot on Election Day. If you do not have your ballot, you will be asked to vote a provisional ballot.

Election Protection Hotline

The national, nonpartisan Election Protection coalition was formed to ensure that all voters have an equal opportunity to participate in the political process. Made up of more than 100 local, state and national partners, Election Protection works year-round to advance and defend the right to vote.

Call 866-OUR-VOTE if you need assistance.

More about voting in Connecticut

Find your polling place, ID laws, and more about voting for the first time below.


Voting Info for Connecticut First Time Voter Info