Mail-In Ballot Application Deadline Approaching In Rhode Island

RHODE ISLAND — General election season is here in Rhode Island, with just a few weeks left before voters hit the ballots on Nov. 8.

But for those planning to vote by mail, there's an important deadline coming up to make sure your ballot counts. Rhode Island voters have until Tuesday to submit a mail ballot application to their local board of canvassers.

Ballot applications must be received (not postmarked) by the Oct. 18 deadline. Voters may place applications in the mail or drop them off in person at their local board of canvassers. Addresses for all boards of canvassers can be found on the back of the mail ballot application.

"Voting by mail is a safe and secure option for casting your ballot," said Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea. "I strongly encourage all Rhode Islanders that wish to vote from home with a mail ballot to put their applications in the mail at least a week before the deadline to ensure they are received in time."

The Department of State partnered with public libraries throughout Rhode Island to make mail ballot applications available. Registered voters may also access a mail ballot application by visiting vote.ri.gov or by contacting the Department of State's Elections Division at 401-222-2340 or elections@sos.ri.gov.

Voters who do not return their mail ballot application by the October 18 deadline, or those who prefer to vote in person, can still vote in person, either early or on Election Day. Early voting will be available during regular municipal business hours from October 19 through 4:00 p.m. on November 7.