Last update: Sep 20, 2023 07:28 a.m. EDT
Last update: Sep 19, 2023 11:07 a.m. UTC
Can I trust this information?
These guides are researched, written, and updated by Democracy Works, a non-partisan 501(c)(3) registered non-profit organization, to inform voters via TurboVote and other partners. The information in these guides originates from official state sources and is reviewed by state election offices. The guides also link to authoritative state and local resources to provide additional information.
How do I report an issue with the information provided on this page?
Drop us a line to report an issue, share feedback or ask questions about the voting information on this page.
Summary
Massachusetts allows any voter to request a ballot by mail. You can also vote in person. Massachusetts offers early voting.
Top Actions
Who can register to vote?
To register in Massachusetts you must:
- be a citizen of the United States
- be a resident of Massachusetts
- be at least 16 years old (must be 18 years old to vote on Election Day)
- not have been convicted of corrupt practices in respect to elections
- not be under guardianship with respect to voting
- not be currently incarcerated for a felony conviction
How do I vote in person?
Where can I vote on Election Day?
You can look up where to vote on Massachusetts's site.
Can I vote early?
- Yes, Massachusetts does offer early voting. You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. Early voting locations may be less crowded, as well.
What do I need to bring?
You may be asked to show identification if you are voting for the first-time in Massachusetts in a federal election, you are an inactive voter, you are casting a provisional or challenged ballot, or if the poll worker has a reasonable suspicion that leads them to request identification.
Acceptable forms include (must show your name and address at which you are registered to vote):
- MA driver's license or MA-issued ID card
- recent utility bill
- rent receipt
- signed lease
- copy of a voter registration affidavit
- letter from a school dormitory or housing office
- any other printed identification which contains the voter's name and address
Voters without ID: If you're a first-time voter who is unable to present ID when you check in, you may vote a provisional ballot and return with acceptable ID by close of polls. If you're asked for ID for any other reason, and are not able to present ID in such a situation, you must still be permitted to vote. However, your ballot must be challenged. Your ballot will be cast normally, and will only be re-examined in the case of a recount, court order, or audit.
For more information, visit the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s website.
How can I check the status of my ballot?
You can check the status of your ballot on Massachusetts’s site.
Can I vote early?
Yes, Massachusetts does offer early voting.
- You can choose whether to vote on Election Day or during the early voting period, whichever is easier for you. This can be especially helpful if it would be difficult or not possible for you to vote on Election Day. Early voting locations may be less crowded, as well.
What do I need to bring?
You may be asked to show identification if you are voting for the first-time in Massachusetts in a federal election, you are an inactive voter, you are casting a provisional or challenged ballot, or if the poll worker has a reasonable suspicion that leads them to request identification.
Acceptable forms include (must show your name and address at which you are registered to vote):
- MA driver's license or MA-issued ID card
- recent utility bill
- rent receipt
- signed lease
- copy of a voter registration affidavit
- letter from a school dormitory or housing office
- any other printed identification which contains the voter's name and address
Voters without ID: If you're a first-time voter who is unable to present ID when you check in, you may vote a provisional ballot and return with acceptable ID by close of polls. If you're asked for ID for any other reason, and are not able to present ID in such a situation, you must still be permitted to vote. However, your ballot must be challenged. Your ballot will be cast normally, and will only be re-examined in the case of a recount, court order, or audit.
For more information, visit the Massachusetts Secretary of State’s website.
How do I vote by mail?
In Massachusetts, any registered voter can request to get a ballot by mail. Fill out the mail ballot application and mail or return it in person to your local election office. You can also submit a mail ballot application online using the Massachusetts Mail Ballot Application System.
What should I do if I don’t get my ballot?
If you don’t receive your ballot in the mail, then contact your local election office.
How do I return my ballot?
- Read the instructions carefully on how to mark and return your ballot.
- You can return your ballot by mail or by visiting a dedicated drop off location.
- Find a ballot drop off location near you.
- If you choose to return your ballot by mail, the United States Postal Service (USPS) recommends that voters mail their completed ballots at least one week before the due date. Find a USPS location near you.
What do I need to do if I’ve moved?
What’s on your ballot depends on where you live, so your voter registration is tied to your exact address. If you’ve moved, you need to re-register with your new address.
How can I check the status of my ballot?
You can check the status of your ballot on Massachusetts’s site.
Can I register to vote on Election Day?
Massachusetts does not offer registration on Election Day.
Get Ready to Vote
How do I see what's on my ballot?
View your sample ballot on the Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth's website. Available ballot information may vary depending on the upcoming election.
How do I get help registering to vote?
TurboVote can help you start the absentee/mail-in ballot request process, send you election reminders, and more. If you’d like more help planning how to vote, we can walk you through the process!
How do I vote if I'm in the military or live overseas?
Active-duty military, their families, and overseas citizens are exempt from voter registration requirements in Massachusetts. In order to get your ballot, you can submit an absentee ballot request using the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA). The FPCA process is done by mail, but your state may offer other options to request and return ballots. Please contact your local election office for more information about delivery and return methods, including email, fax, and state online portals. To follow the FPCA process:
- Fill out the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), or download a copy. Your local election office may have questions, so please provide an email address or phone number where they can reach you.
- Send the application to your local election office.
- It is never too early to submit an FPCA! Please do so as soon as possible.
- Please fill out and send back your ballot as soon as you receive it.
- States begin mailing absentee ballots at least 45 days before Election Day. If you haven't received your ballot by 30 days before Election Day, contact your local election office.
If after submitting your FPCA, your ballot does not arrive, contact your local election office first. Then:
- You can still vote using the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB). Print, sign, and mail your FWAB to your local election office.
- If you mail a FWAB and then receive your regular absentee ballot, you should complete and mail your absentee ballot also. Election officials will ensure that only one ballot is counted.
The Federal Voting Assistance Program offers additional information on military and overseas voting in Massachusetts. You can also call 1-800-438-VOTE (8683) or email vote@fvap.gov
How can I check my voter registration status?
You can look up your voter registration record and verify that your information is correct using Massachusetts's voter registration lookup tool.
How do I contact my state election office?
Which election office should I contact?
- In Massachusetts, your local election office runs the elections in your area. They can help you with questions about registering to vote, voting by mail, and local elections.
- The Secretary of the Commonwealth oversees elections and election administration in Massachusetts. They can help you with questions about voting in your state, election security, or issues you might have at the polls. If you have concerns about voter intimidation, reach out immediately.
How do I contact my local election office?
Visit your state’s site to find your local election office.