Nonprofit Voter Engagement Network

In 1998, Oregon voters passed a ballot measure directing elections be conducted by mail, commonly called Vote by Mail.
Vote by Mail has has replaced polling place elections. Voters, however, may deliver their vote “in-person” by dropping off their mail ballot at a drop-off location near where they live.

As a registered voter, what do I have to do?

If your registration is current, your ballot packet will automatically be mailed to you. Inside the packet you will find three items - the ballot, a secrecy envelope and the return envelope.
Oregon instructs you that once you fill out the ballot, you:
•    Place it in the secrecy envelope
•    Seal it in the pre-addressed return envelope
•    Sign the return envelope on the appropriate line
•    Verify that the return envelope has your name and current address
•    Return the ballot either by mail or at a designated drop site.

When are the ballots mailed to the voters?

Ballots are mailed any time between the 14 and 18 days before an election.

I will be out of town when ballots are mailed. How do I get a ballot?

An early Absentee Ballot is available 45 days before the election. You may request an early absentee ballot from your county election official either in person, by mail, or by fax. You will need to include your name, residence address and, if different, your mailing address.

Do I have to return my ballot by mail?

No. You may also drop it off at any county election office or any designated drop site in the state.
The times and locations of drop sites are published by and available from your county election official.

Do I need to provide proof of ID in order to vote by mail?

You will have provided identification upon first registering to vote; however, you do not need to enclose further verification of your identity when returning your completed ballot. (Remember to read and sign the Voter's Statement printed on your ballot's return envelope!)

When must the voted ballot be returned?

The voted ballot must be received by 8pm on election night in any county election office or designated drop site. Postmarks do not count.

What if I make a mistake?

If you make a mistake, you may call your county election office and request a replacement ballot. One will be mailed to you provided the request is received with sufficient time for mailing. Otherwise, you may pick up a replacement ballot in person at your county election office.
Your ballot has been cast as soon as you deposit it in the mailbox or at a drop site. After that, you cannot receive a new ballot to re-vote.

How do I know if my ballot is received?

You may call your county election office and ask if they received your ballot. A record is kept showing each voter whose ballot has been returned.

What if I have more questions?

…If your ballot does not come
…If you have moved and not updated your voter registration
…If you need a replacement ballot
…Or if you have other additional questions
Please contact your local election board – link at right sidebar.

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