Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, many have wondered if the U.S. can conduct a safe election in November. What we know is this: The safest and most secure way to vote in a pandemic is vote-by-mail.
During the 2020 primaries, coronavirus severely disrupted elections. State voting systems were overwhelmed by long lines, an influx of absentee ballot requests, and technology issues. Considering this, we have chosen to assess the ease of mail voting in each of the 50 states and Washington, D.C., on dimensions such as requesting, completing, and submitting a mail-in ballot. This scorecard does not attempt to gauge overall voter experiences or cover all aspects of the voting system. It is a forward-looking and evolving analysis of what states are doing now to expand access and improve the process of voting by absentee ballot or via a universal vote-by-mail system, thereby improving voting in a pandemic.
The materials on this page were last updated on Nov. 3, 2020. This project has been retired and is no longer being updated; please check your local authorities to ensure the latest information on voting procedures. Special thanks to the Institute of Politics at Harvard Kennedy School for supporting students that collaborated on this project.
State Rankings of Vote-by-Mail Pandemic Preparedness
The following table lists each state in alphabetical order along with a letter grade from A-F on how prepared it is for voting in a pandemic. For more information on each state’s preparedness, click a state’s name to be taken to a detailed breakdown on how it performs across a range of relevant factors.
Alabama — Grade: F | Score: -1/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
-3 (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
-1 (out of -1) |
| State note: An absentee ballot returned by mail must be postmarked no later than the day prior to the election and received by the Absentee Election Manager no later than noon on election day. |
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Alaska — Grade: C | Score: 9/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Arizona — Grade: C | Score: 9/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Arkansas — Grade: C | Score: 6/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
(out of -1) |
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California — Grade: A | Score: 18/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Colorado — Grade: A | Score: 19/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
3 (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Connecticut — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Delaware — Grade: B | Score: 12/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Florida — Grade: C | Score: 8/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Georgia — Grade: C | Score: 9/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Hawaii — Grade: A | Score: 16/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Idaho — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Illinois — Grade: B | Score: 14/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Indiana — Grade: C | Score: 8/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
-1 (out of -1) |
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Iowa — Grade: B | Score: 13/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: Iowa requires its voted mail ballots to be postmarked 1 day before election day and received by noon 6 days after election day. |
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Kansas — Grade: B | Score: 10/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: The application for an absentee ballot must either include the applicant’s current and valid Kansas driver’s license number or non-driver ID card number, or a photocopy of other identification. |
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Kentucky — Grade: B | Score: 11/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Louisiana — Grade: D | Score: 3/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
-1 (out of -1) |
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Maine — Grade: C | Score: 8/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Maryland — Grade: B | Score: 15/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Massachusetts — Grade: B | Score: 13/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Michigan — Grade: B | Score: 12/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: Michigan Court of Claims Judge Cynthia Diane Stephens ruled that ballots postmarked by Nov. 2 must be counted as long as they are received by election officials before election results are certified. |
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Minnesota — Grade: B | Score: 11/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Mississippi — Grade: D | Score: 0/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
-3 (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
-1 (out of -1) |
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Missouri — Grade: D | Score: 0/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
-3 (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Montana — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Nebraska — Grade: B | Score: 12/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: The Nebraska Secretary of State’s office reported that there are drop-off boxes for ballots at every election office in the state. |
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Nevada — Grade: A | Score: 18/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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New Hampshire — Grade: D | Score: 5/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
-1 (out of -1) |
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New Jersey — Grade: A | Score: 19/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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New Mexico — Grade: C | Score: 8/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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New York — Grade: B | Score: 10/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
1 (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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North Carolina — Grade: B | Score: 10/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: North Carolina will send an absentee ballot application to every voter through their Judicial Voter Guide. |
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North Dakota — Grade: B | Score: 11/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Ohio — Grade: B | Score: 15/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: Marked ballots must either be received by county board of elections prior to the close of the polls on Election Day, or postmarked no later than the day before the election and received by the board of elections no later than 10 days after the election. |
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Oklahoma — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: State Senate Bill 210 provides voters the option to provide a copy of an identification document as an alternative to having a notarized ballot or two witness signatures. |
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Oregon — Grade: A | Score: 19/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
3 (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Pennsylvania — Grade: B | Score: 10/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Rhode Island — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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South Carolina — Grade: D | Score: 3/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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South Dakota — Grade: C | Score: 6/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Tennessee — Grade: C | Score: 6/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: While a judge ordered Tennessee to allow no-excuse absentee voting, restrictions still exist for first-time absentee voters. |
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Texas — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
2 (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Utah — Grade: A | Score: 19/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Vermont — Grade: B | Score: 15/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
(Back to top)
Virginia — Grade: D | Score: 5/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
| State note: In state and local elections, some first-time voters cannot vote absentee by mail. |
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Washington state — Grade: A | Score: 22/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
3 (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Washington, D.C. — Grade: A | Score: 19/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
10 (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
– (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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West Virginia — Grade: B | Score: 11/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
3 (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Wisconsin — Grade: C | Score: 7/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
5 (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
– (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
– (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
-1 (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
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Wyoming — Grade: C | Score: 8/22
| 1. Universal Vote-By-Mail |
Points earned |
| A. Voters automatically receive a ballot |
– (out of 10) |
| B. State conducted universal vote-by-mail in the 2016 election |
– (out of 3) |
| 2. Requesting an Application for Absentee Voting (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. All registered voters receive an application |
– (out of 5) |
| B. No excuse is required for an application |
2 (out of 2) |
| C. COVID-19 concerns are permitted to request an application |
– (out of 1) |
| 3. Completing a Mail Ballot |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot does not require a witness signature |
3 (out of 3) |
| 4. Submitting a Mail Ballot (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received beyond 5 or more days from election day |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Ballot is accepted if postmarked by election day and received within 5 days from election day |
– (out of 2) |
| 5. Channels for Submission (select one) |
Points earned |
| A. Drop-off boxes, mail, and in-person channels are available |
– (out of 3) |
| B. Mail and in-person channels are available |
2 (out of 2) |
| 6. Special Scoring |
Points earned |
| A. Voters can submit an application for an absentee ballot via three or more channels |
1 (out of 1) |
| B. Voters need a notary or two witnesses to complete an absentee ballot |
– (out of -3) |
| C. Voters are required to provide a copy of photo ID for the mail application and/or ballot |
– (out of -1) |
| D. Mail ballots are due before close of polling |
– (out of -1) |
(Back to top)
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