Can someone who is homeless register and vote? What should this person list as his or her home address?
Yes. Persons experiencing homelessness can register and vote in all 50 states. When filling out a voter registration form, homeless registrants may list a street corner or a park as their residence, in lieu of a traditional home address. The federal voter registration form and many state forms provide a space for this purpose. Alternatively, homeless registrants may list a shelter address as their home address.
Does the registrant have to have lived at this location for any particular length of time?
Some states still maintain durational residency requirements for voter registration. For example, a registrant might be required to verify that they will have lived at their current address for 30 days before Election Day. Call your local elections officials to find out what the rules are in your state.
What should a homeless registrant list as his or her mailing address?
Most states require registrants to provide a mailing address. Generally speaking, a shelter is often the best option. Some states allow homeless individuals to use county courthouses or county clerks' offices as their mailing address. Others allow registrants to use a P.O. Box as a mailing address. Call your local elections officials to find out what the rules are in your state.
Where can I find more information on registration and voting for the homeless?
For further information about registration and voting for those experiencing homelessness, contact The National Coalition for the Homeless, which provides extensive information on voter registration for homeless individuals through their "You Don't Need a Home to Vote Project". You can also contact the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty.