Massachusetts: Election Tools, Deadlines, Dates, Rules, and Links

Massachusetts absentee ballots

• Absentee ballot application deadlines

  • In Person: Received by noon, 1 day before Election Day, but we recommend applying at least 7 days before Election Day.
  • By Mail: Received by 5 PM, 4 business days before Election Day, but we recommend applying at least 7 days before Election Day
  • Online: N/A

  In addition to absentee voting, Massachusetts has early voting by mail available with the following deadlines:

  • In Person: Applications received by 5 PM, 4 business days before Election Day.
  • By Mail: Applications received by 5 PM, 4 business days before Election Day.
  • Online: N/A

• Voted absentee ballots are due

  Received Election Day.

• Absentee ballot rules

  Any registered Massachusetts voter may vote via an early voting ballot or early vote by mail.

  To qualify for an absentee ballot, a voter must:

  • Be away from their city/town on Election Day; or
  • Have a disability that keeps them from voting at their polling place; or
  • Have a religious belief that prevents them from voting at their polling places in Election Day.

• How to get an absentee ballot in Massachusetts

  1. Use our Absentee Ballot Tool to prepare your application.
  2. Sign and date the form. This is very important!
  3. Return your completed application to your Local Election Office as soon as possible. We'll provide the mailing address for you.
  4. All Local Election Offices will accept mailed or hand-delivered forms. Your Local Election Official will also let you fax or email the application.
  5. Double-check the deadlines and be sure to cast your voted ballot on time to be sure it is counted.
  6. Please contact your Local Election Office if you have any further questions about the exact process.

• Once you get your absentee ballot in Massachusetts

  • Once you receive the ballot, carefully read and follow the instructions.
  • Sign and date where indicated.
  • Mail your voted ballot back to the address indicated on the return envelope.
  • Double-check the deadlines and be sure to cast your voted ballot on time to be sure it is counted.