Washington, United States

With less than 10 days left for the US presidential elections 2024, which are to be held on November 5, know the common mistakes to avoid while voting by mail.

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Most US states allow voting by mail, in which ballots are sent to voters by mail before the election day and are to be returned by the day of the election. While this option allows voters to cast their ballots from the comfort of their homes, they may be more prone to human errors than casting a vote in person at a polling station. These errors may result in the rejection of the ballot and not being counted.

Here are some common mistakes to avoid while voting by mail:

Sending back the ballot too late

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Another one of the most common mistakes that voters make while voting by mail is sending their ballots back too late. Make sure to check your state’s deadline and post them as early as possible so they reach the office in time.

Also read | US elections 2024: What identification do you need to vote in the US?

Not filling out the ballot properly

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Follow the instructions that come with the ballot carefully and fill out the ballot paper. Make sure to mark your option properly with the right colour otherwise, it may not be scanned. Make sure to seal it properly as per the laws of your state.

Not including required documents

It is required for a voter to submit a copy of documents required by their state while voting by mail. Failing to do so will lead to rejection of your vote.

Also read | US election 2024: What are provisional ballots and when are they issued?

Forgetting to sign the envelope

Every state requires the voter to sign an affidavit on the envelope containing the ballot. This is to confirm the voter’s identity. Read the instructions carefully and sign where it is required.

Using a different signature

If the voter’s signatures do not match their most recent signature on the file with the election office, it may lead to rejection of the ballot.