I didn't get to vote in the 2014 midterm elections. I had just moved to Illinois, but I was (and still am) registered in Missouri. I had no clue how to sign up for absentee voting across state lines. As I asked around, I realized that very few of my friends were registered in our district, but almost no one knew how to request an absentee ballot. Every election is important, but this is the first presidential election many of us have been old enough to vote in. No matter who you plan to vote for, everyone should have the tools to contribute. To help out, I've decided to put together a list of things that anyone planning to vote absentee needs to know.
1. Make sure you're registered to vote
Whether you're voting absentee or at the polls, this is the first step. In Illinois, you can go here to check your voter status. To register from any state, check out Rock the Vote. It takes about five minutes to get set up. You'll need your driver's license or state ID card number, the last 4 digits of your Social Security number, and the date your driver’s license or state ID card was issued.
2. Request your ballot
Just about any registered voter can request an absentee ballot. It's highly encouraged for students, service members, and military families. This site is the easiest way to apply for your ballot. I requested mine as I wrote this, and it literally takes 2 minutes. For military members and family, use the Federal Post Card Application.
3. Fill out your application
After you request your application, they'll email you the form and also have it available as a PDF. Fill it in and follow the instructions. Once that's finished just mail it to the indicated address. Don't forget to sign it!
4. Check your deadlines
Make sure you're sending your application in on time. For my district, the due date is 6 days before the election. However, it is recommended to submit the form ASAP. The general deadlines are
* Oct. 10, 2016 for those on a ship at sea.
* Oct. 15, 2016 for those overseas.
* Nov. 1, 2016 for those stateside but away from your voting district.
These are just guidelines. It's always best to check the deadline for your home district. If you have any questions, contact your local office which you can find here.
No matter the outcome of the 2016 election, we will all be affected. Young voters could be a force to be reckoned with. Millenials have officially matched Baby Boomers in terms of voter eligibility, with both making up about 31% of the electorate. In the 2012 election, just 19% of registered millenial voters cast a ballot. This year, make sure you're not left out of the process. If you're at home, make sure you get to the polls. If you're away, request your ballot. There are just a few weeks left until the election. Millenials, get out there and vote.
