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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:
Use the state’s Registration Lookup portal to check your registration status.
After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. Locations will be available online closer to the general election.
You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.
Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:
Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
Military or overseas voters can find details and deadlines for voting by mail on the state board of elections website.
Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.
Your local election authority may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.
Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’ online tool or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.
Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s Polling Place Lookup to find your polling station.
Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill.
If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a provisional ballot. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.
Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.
Information about each jurisdiction’s polling place accessibility will be available closer to the election.
Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.
Editor’s note: This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.
Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast Today’s Tips from AARP. She previously worked as a digital producer for The Press Democrat in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for Advocate magazines in Dallas.
This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the AARP Illinois page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.
Tuesday, Dec 31, 2024 at 10:00 a.m. CT
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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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--primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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} </script> </div> </div> <div class="card-tout card-dark membership-tout" style="margin:0 0 30px 0;"> <img class="img-responsive image" title="image of two AARP membership cards" alt="image of two AARP membership cards" src="https://cdn-aarp.americantowns.com/img/tout-two-cards.png"> <div class="title">Only $12 your first year with Automatic Renewal</div> <ul class="list"> <li>Immediate access to your <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/">member benefits</a></li> <li>Discounts on travel and everyday savings</li> <li>Subscription to AARP The Magazine</li> <li>FREE second membership</li> </ul> <div class="action"> <a class="btn" href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/join?campaignid=UAJFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Join AARP</a> <div class="body">Already a member? <a href="https://appsec.aarp.org/mem/renew?campaignid= UARFT3&intcmp=LNK-CSN-AARPLOCAL-JRTOUT-RR-A-SPRINGFIELD-IL">Renew</a> or <a href="https://www.aarp.org/benefits-discounts/my-membership/print-your-card/">Print Card</a></div> </div> </div> <style> .membership-tout {padding:16px 20px;} .membership-tout .list li { margin: 0; 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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$viewFile = '/var/www/vhosts/vcc_staging/app/View/Layouts/aarp_2023.ctp' $dataForView = array( 'content_for_layout' => '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. Visit the <a href="https://states.aarp.org/region/illinois/" target="_blank">AARP Illinois</a> page for more news, events, and programs affecting retirement, health care, and more.</i></p> </div> </div><div class="module clearfix"><script src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.c85a242a55150cd195e494cd6e5b9c77.gz.js" async=""></script> <link rel="stylesheet" media="all" href="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/resource/00000168-dd17-d487-a96e-df5fe3ee0000/styleguide/All.min.bfe6eb5a8301841feef3af4e9bd1e26d.gz.css"> <!-- bypass --> <style> a:focus, a:hover { text-decoration: underline; } h1.article-headline { margin: 0 0 1rem; } </style> <!-- <style> .Enhancement-item .Figure { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body ul { margin-bottom: 24px; } .RichTextArticleBody-body p{ margin: 12px 0; } .RichTextModule-items { clear: both; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 12px; } .VideoEnhancement>* { color: var(--primaryTextColor); 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--primaryTextColor: #2a2a2a; --linkTextColor: #1f66bd; --linkHoverColor: #1f66bd; --secondaryTextColor: #000000; --secondaryColor2: #000000; --secondaryColor3: #000000; --secondaryColor4: #000000; --secondaryColor5: #000000; --black: #000000; --white: #ffffff; --grey: #f0efed; --gridGutters: 30px; --modulePadding: 60px; --pageWidth: 86.11%; --maxPageWidth: 1240px; --horizontalAlignment: center; --fontFamily: 'Roboto', sans-serif; --headerBackgroundColor:#000000; --headerTextColor:#FFFFFF; --headerHeight:50px; --footerbackgroundColor:#000000; --footerTextColor:#918883; }', 'title_for_layout' => '{local_city_c}, {local_state} Happenings - AARP' ) $content_for_layout = '<div class="row twoColumnLayout"> <div class="col-md-8 left-rail"><div class="module clearfix"><div class="ar-basic-box"> <div> <div class="module-spacer"> <header><h1 class="article-headline">How to Vote in Illinois’ 2024 Elections</h1></header> <div class="posted-on"> Posted on 09/26/24 by <b>Elissa Chudwin</b> </div> </div> <div class="module-spacer"> <span class="blog-content"><p><div class="RichTextArticleBody"> <div class="RichTextArticleBody-body"><p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/elecciones-guia-para-votar" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">En español</a></span></span> <br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Important dates and election information</h2></span></span><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/07/d9/b3ec99b84524bd00c4c530a35174/election-2023-bul2024.jpg" alt="AARP election buttons final" width="900" height="900" style="height: auto; max-width: 200px;"/> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>First day of early voting: </b>Thursday, Sept. 26</li><li><b>Last day to register by mail:</b> Tuesday, Oct. 8 (postmarked)</li><li><b>Last day to register online:</b> Sunday, Oct. 20</li><li><b>Deadline to request mail ballot via mail: </b>Thursday, Oct. 31 (received)</li><li><b>Last day of early voting: </b>Monday, Nov. 4</li><li><b>General election: </b>Tuesday, Nov. 5</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at a glance</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Voter registration: </b>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Mail voting:</b> Any registered voter in Illinois may cast a vote-by-mail ballot without a reason.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Early voting: </b>Early voting begins Thursday, Sept. 26, and runs through Monday, Nov. 4.<b> </b>Find<b> </b>early voting sites and hours in your county using the <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state board of elections’ online search tool</a></span></span>.</li></ul><ul><li><b>Voting at the polls: </b>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Your signature typically is all you’ll need to vote at a polling station.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Recent voting changes in Illinois</h2></span></span><p>A 2023 law may change how you vote in 2024:<br></p><ul><li>Jurisdictions with more than 500,000 people are required to have two vote centers. Previously, it was just one.</li></ul><ul><li>Teens age 16 and 17 will automatically be preregistered to vote when they receive their driver’s license, unless they opt out.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to register to vote </h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>Online:</b> Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">voter registration portal</a></span></span> to register or update an application. You’ll need your Illinois driver’s license or state ID card number, date of issue and the last four digits of your Social Security number. The online registration deadline for the general election is 11:59 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 20.</li></ul><div class="Enhancement" > <div class="Enhancement-item"><figure class="Figure" data-alignment="right"> <img src="https://aarp-states.brightspotcdn.com/18/ce/8f2b17ad4107aad7144e17dc7969/400-il-gettyimages-2074403093-il.jpg" alt="Early voting for 2024 primary election continues in Chicago" width="400" height="266" style="height: auto; max-width: 430px;"/> <figcaption class="Figure-caption">A voter shows an ''I voted'' sticker at a polling station in Chicago.</figcaption> <div class="Figure-credit">Jacek Boczarski/Anadolu/Getty Images</div> </figure> </div> </div><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Download, print and fill out a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/electionoperations/votingregistrationforms.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> registration form</a></span></span>. Mail your completed form to your<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> local election authority</a></span></span> or the<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> </a></span></span>Illinois Board of Elections Voter Registration Department (2329 S. MacArthur Blvd., Springfield, IL 62704). Include a copy of your current and valid photo identification or a current utility bill, bank statement or other government document with your name and address. Your mail-in registration form must be postmarked by Tuesday, Oct. 8.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person:</b> Register at your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span>. Forms also may be available at some county clerk offices, military recruitment offices, city and village offices, and some public schools and libraries. Regular registration ends Tuesday, Oct. 8, but you can register and cast your ballot during early voting and on Election Day.</li></ul><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Check your registration status</h2></span></span><p>Use the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/RegistrationLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Registration Lookup portal</a></span></span> to check your registration status.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">What if I miss the voter registration deadline? </h2></span></span><p>After regular registration ends, you can register to vote and cast your ballot at the same time, either at an early voting site from Wednesday, Oct. 9, through Monday, Nov. 4, or on Election Day. <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/votingandregistrationsystems/earlyvotinglocationssearch.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Locations</a></span></span> will be available online closer to the general election.<br><br>You will need to bring two forms of identification to register and vote at the same time, and at least one needs to show your current address. Acceptable forms of ID include your Illinois driver’s license, U.S. passport, a copy of a current utility bill or bank statement.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">How to request a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p>Starting in August, you can request a vote-by-mail ballot:<br></p><ul><li><b>Online: </b>Go to the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span>, select your county and follow the prompts to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot.</li></ul><ul><li><b>By mail and in person:</b> Download<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/VotingByMailAgreement.aspx?T=637769186821089304" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> an application</a></span></span> from the state board of elections website, complete it, and mail or deliver it to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx?T=637770554253936098" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">election authority.</a></span></span></li></ul><p>Vote-by-mail ballot applications must be received online and by mail by Thursday, Oct. 31. Hand-delivered applications must be received by Monday, Nov. 4, but you’re encouraged to apply as soon as possible.<br><br>Military or overseas voters can find <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/Military.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">details and deadlines for voting by mail</a></span></span> on the state board of elections website.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Returning a vote-by-mail ballot</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><b>By mail: </b>Completed vote-by-mail ballots must be postmarked by Election Day (Tuesday, Nov. 5) and received no later than Tuesday, Nov. 19.</li></ul><ul><li><b>In person: </b>Return your completed ballot to your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> no later than Election Day. Some counties may offer <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/VoteByMailBallotDropBoxLocations.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">secure ballot drop boxes</a></span></span>. You cannot return your completed mail ballot to your polling place.</li></ul><p>Someone else may return your completed vote-by-mail ballot to your election authority, but you and the person returning the ballot must sign the affidavit on your ballot envelope.<br><br>Your <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionAuthorities.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">local election authority</a></span></span> may offer online ballot tracking, or you may have to call or email the office to check the status of your ballot.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting in person before Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Vote early at your local election authority from Thursday, Sept. 26, through Monday, Nov 4. Additional sites may open in your area on Monday, Oct. 21. Use the state board of elections’<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/EarlyVotingLocationsSearch.aspx?T=637768137907273909" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> online tool</a></span></span> or call your election authority for early voting locations in your area.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting at the polls on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 5. Enter your address into the state’s <span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://ova.elections.il.gov/PollingPlaceLookup.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Polling Place Lookup</a></span></span> to find your polling station.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voter ID requirements on Election Day</h2></span></span><p>Your signature is typically all you need to vote on Election Day, unless you’re also registering to vote. In that case, bring two forms of ID, and one must include your current address, such as a utility bill. <br><br>If you did not provide identification when you registered by mail and did not bring ID with you to the polls, you may cast a<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.elections.il.gov/ElectionOperations/ElectionDayVoting.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> provisional ballot</a></span></span>. You’ll also need to complete and sign a provisional voter affidavit. After your provisional ballot is cast, you’ll receive instructions on how to provide additional information to your local election authority.<br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Voting with a disability</h2></span></span><p>Illinois offers voting by mail to every registered voter.<br><br>Information about each jurisdiction’s<span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://elections.il.gov/VotingAndRegistrationSystems/PPALocator.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> polling place accessibility</a></span></span> will be available closer to the election.<br><br>Voters who need assistance filling in their ballot can receive help from either an election official or someone they choose, as long as that person is not an employer or union official.<br><br><b><i>Editor’s note:</i></b><i> This guide was originally published on Dec. 11, 2023, and has been updated with new information about voting in the 2024 elections.</i><br><br><i>Elissa Chudwin covers federal and state policy and writes the podcast </i>Today’s Tips from AARP<i>. She previously worked as a digital producer for </i>The Press Democrat<i> in Santa Rosa, California, and as an editor for </i>Advocate<i> magazines in Dallas.</i><br><br></p><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><h2 class="inline-heading">Also of Interest:</h2></span></span><p></p><ul><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/elections" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Follow AARP’s political coverage</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://www.aarp.org/politics-society/government-elections/info-2024/state-voting-guides.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Find voter guides for all 50 states</a></span></span></li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="http://aarp.org/careforcaregivers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Learn more about AARP’s caregiving advocacy work</a></span></span> </li><li><span class="Enhancement" ><span class="Enhancement-item"><a class="Link" href="https://states.aarp.org/illinois/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Keep up with local events and AARP advocacy efforts</a></span></span></li></ul></div> </div> </p></span> </div> </div> <p><i>This story is provided by AARP Illinois. 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