How to Vote Early or Absentee in New York

New York’s Primary Election is coming up on Tuesday, June 25, but not everyone has to wait until then to cast their vote. Thanks to early voting, you have options and a good chunk of time to make your voice heard without the rush of Election Day.

When Can You Vote Early?

Early voting in New York runs from this Saturday, June 14, through Sunday, June 22.
Each county sets its own voting hours, so be sure to check with your local Board of Elections to find out when polls are open near you.

Where Do You Go?

You can vote at any early voting center in your county, it doesn’t have to be your usual polling place. Just make sure it’s one of the approved early voting locations. Need help finding one? Use this link to look up locations.

Who Can Vote in the Primary?

Only registered voters affiliated with a political party can vote in that party’s primary. So if there’s a contested race in your party, you’re eligible to vote, but make sure your registration is up to date.

If you’re unsure, your local Board of Elections can help you check your registration status.

What is Early Voting, Anyway?

Early voting simply gives you more flexibility to vote in person before Election Day. It works just like voting on Election Day: you show up, check in, fill out a paper ballot, and cast your vote.

There’s even help available if you need it. Each early voting site will have instructions, a Voter's Bill of Rights, and trained staff to walk you through the process.

What If You Change Your Mind?

Important note: If you vote early, you cannot vote again on Election Day. Once your vote is in, it’s locked in.

When Will Early Votes Be Counted?

Just like the rest of the ballots, early votes will be canvassed and reported after the polls close at 9 p.m. on Primary Day (June 25). So, your vote won’t be counted early, it just gives you the freedom to cast it early.

What About Absentee Voting?

If you’re unable to make it to an early voting site or to the polls on Primary Day, you may still be able to vote by absentee ballot. There are several reasons a voter might qualify. You may be eligible if you’ll be out of your home county during the election, if you’re ill or have a disability, or if you’re the primary caregiver for someone who is sick or physically disabled.

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You can also vote absentee if you’re incarcerated for a reason other than a felony, living in a VA hospital, serving in the military, or currently living overseas. To make sure your vote counts, reach out to your local Board of Elections to learn how to apply for an absentee ballot and when to return it.