Absentee Ballots In Hartford, What You Need To Know

HARTFORD, CT — Hartford voters planning to cast absentee ballots in the 2026 election can apply without providing a reason or excuse under a recently enacted state law.

Hartford voters planning to cast absentee ballots in the Nov. 3 election can request them online or obtain applications through the city clerk's office.

Before an absentee ballot can be issued, a voter must complete and return an application, according to the City of Hartford.

Applications can be obtained in person, by mail, or through the Connecticut Secretary of the State's website.

Connecticut law now allows any active registered voter to request an absentee ballot without providing an excuse.

The change took effect May 15, according to current state voting guidance.

Key information for Hartford voters includes:

• Online: Voters can use Connecticut's online absentee ballot application portal. Request an absentee ballot online
• Paper applications: Hartford's website provides an English and Spanish application from the Secretary of the State.
• In person: Applications are available at Hartford City Hall, 550 Main St., Room 104.
• Office hours: Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.
• Military and overseas voters: Uniformed service members, their families, and U.S. citizens living abroad can use the Federal Post Card Application to register to vote and request an absentee ballot.
• Election Day deadline: Absentee ballots returned by mail must be received by 8 p.m. Nov. 3. Ballots may also be returned using an authorized ballot drop box by the close of polls.

The city also notes that anyone distributing five or more absentee ballot applications to people outside their immediate family must first register with the city clerk in the municipality where the applications will be distributed and obtain the forms from that office.

Hartford voters seeking an application or additional information can contact the city clerk's office. The city's absentee ballot webpage lists 860-757-9750 for applications and information.

For more information on absentee ballots in Hartford, click on this link.