Early Voting in Reading

Early voting is available in Massachusetts for the first time ever in this year's presidential election.

Lawmakers approved the election law change in 2014; it kicks in for the first time this year.

Early voting starts Mon., Oct. 24 and runs until Fri., Nov. 4. It can be done in-person or by mail. It's available to anyone who's registered to vote. You can check your voter registration status here. The registration deadline is Oct. 19.

In Reading, early voting can be done at Reading Town Hall. The hours are as follows:

Mondays - Thursdays: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m.

Saturday, Oct. 29: 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Fri., Nov. 4: 2-6 p.m.

Massachusetts Early Voting Guide

Why early voting?

The law for early voting was signed in 2014 by former Gov. Deval Patrick, and mandates a 10-day voting window before Election Day during the statewide elections, held every two years. This is Massachusetts' first year putting that law into practice.

What do I need to vote?
That depends. You will need to show official identification to a poll worker if it's your first time voting in Massachusetts or your registration status is inactive because you haven’t voted lately. You can check your voter registration status here. A poll worker can additionally request ID if they have reason to be suspicious of your identity, or if you have to complete a provisional or challenged ballot at the polls. More on those situations here.

The following identification documents are acceptable: driver’s license, state-issued ID, recent utility bill, signed lease, rent receipt, or a sworn statement that you're a registered, active voter. You can also show any other official document that includes your name and address.

What's on the ballot?
Voters statewide will be weighing in on the next President of the United States, and on four statewide ballot initiatives. There are also a handful of competitive local elections on the ballot. Find out what's on your ballot here.

And remember...

Even if you don't cast your ballot during the early voting period, you can also vote as usual on Election Day, Nov. 8. Polls are open statewide from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m., although some towns open earlier.

With reporting by Alison Bauter (Patch Staff)

Photo: Shutterstock