Early &
Mail-in Voting
in Wisconsin

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 Wisconsin.

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 Early In Person
03/21/2023
Early Voting Begins
04/02/2023
Early Voting Ends

Vote By Mail Deadlines

03/30/2023
Deadline to Request Ballot (Received by)
04/04/2023
Deadline to Return Ballot (Received By)

In-Person Absentee Voting

You can vote in-person absentee in your state.

To vote in person absentee, request, fill out, and return your ballot while at your municipal clerk's office. Exact dates and hours are determined by the clerk.

How Vote By Mail Works in Wisconsin

Voting by mail is a two step process in Wisconsin. Step 1: Request your ballot NOW. The deadline for your application to be received online or by mail is March 30th at 5 p.m.

  • If it is your first time voting by mail in Wisconsin, you must also include a copy of your valid photo ID with your application.
Step 2: Complete and return your ballot ASAP.
  • Fill out and sign your ballot in the presence of an adult witness. They must sign it, too.
  • Return in person to your municipal clerk's office, Election Day polling place or additional designated ballot return location by 8 p.m. on April 4th.
  • Or return by mail - ballots must be received by April 4th to be counted.

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

You may vote by mail for any reason

You don’t need an excuse to request an absentee ballot. You can vote by mail for any reason.

Remember to Sign Your Return Ballot

The certificate envelope. This location is also where the witness will sign.

Grab a friend! You must fill out and sign your ballot's certificate (attached to return envelope) in the presence of an adult witness. They must sign it, too. Make sure to follow instructions! If you do not sign, or your witness does not sign, your ballot will be tossed and your vote will not count.

Use The Right Form of ID

Wisconsin voters must show valid photo ID when voting in person. Info here on what qualifies. If it is your first time voting by mail, include a copy of your valid photo ID with your absentee ballot application. When the you submit the ballot by-mail you do not need to submit ID, but you must have one adult witness sign the absentee certificate envelope and provide their address.

How You Can Return Your Mail-in Ballot

By Mail

Your postage is prepaid.

In Person

  • Local elections office
  • Drop box

TBD. This issue is currently being discussed in pending legislation.

Look Up Ballot Drop Off Locations

Make Sure Your Mail-in Vote Counts

Click here to track your ballot. Your state offers electronic, barcode ballot tracking services so you can make sure your ballot gets counted.  

Haven't used your ballot?

You will be asked at your polling place if you have returned your ballot and if you have not, you will be issued a ballot at your polling place. You may also vote in person on Election Day if you requested, but never received, an absentee 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 Wisconsin

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


Voting Info for Wisconsin First Time Voter Info