Voting is a fundamental right, and it’s essential for everyone, including people with disabilities, to have equal access to the voting process. Whether it’s ensuring accessible voting machines or arranging transportation, being prepared can make your experience smoother and more empowering. As Election Day approaches, here’s a helpful checklist to make sure you’re ready to cast your vote with confidence.
You must be registered to vote and in Indiana, that deadline was October 7, 2024, for in-person registration, online and by mail.
What are key deadlines for the November 2024 election?
Registration deadlines
- In-person at local election office : Oct 7 close of business
- Online : Oct 7
- By mail (postmarked by) : Oct 7
Voting deadlines
- Early voting (in-person absentee voting) : Oct 8 – Nov 4
- In-person : Nov 5
- Know Your Polling Place
Polling locations are required to be accessible, but it’s always a good idea to check beforehand. Confirm your designated polling place and review whether it meets your accessibility needs. You can ask your local election office if there are any special accommodations like curbside voting or assistance available at the site.
Find your polling place (in Indiana) at https://indianavoters.in.gov/
- Understand Your Voting Rights
As a voter with a disability, you have the right to accessible voting methods, whether through physical accommodations at the polls or by using assistive technology. Many states offer accessible voting machines for individuals with visual or mobility impairments. Be sure to know what resources are available in your area, and don’t hesitate to ask for help at the polling place.
Learn more at https://www.in.gov/idr/hoosiers-vote/ways-to-vote/
- Consider Absentee or Mail-In Voting
If getting to the polls is a challenge, many states provide absentee or mail-in voting options for people with disabilities. These options allow you to vote from the comfort of your home. Be sure to check the deadlines for requesting and returning your ballot so your vote is counted.
Absentee ballot deadlines
- Request ballot (received by) : Oct 24 by 11:59 p.m. EDT
- Return ballot by mail (received by) : Nov 5 close of polls
- Return ballot in person : Nov 5 close of polls
- Bring Proper Identification
Check your state’s requirements for voter identification. Make sure to bring any necessary ID with you to the polls. Some states accept different types of ID for people with disabilities, so verify the acceptable forms ahead of time.
Learn more about what you need on election day at https://www.in.gov/idr/hoosiers-vote/voting-faqs/
- Ask for Assistance if Needed
If you need assistance at the polls, you have the right to bring someone with you to help you vote, or you can ask poll workers for assistance. Whether you need help reading the ballot, filling it out, or using the voting machine, poll workers are trained to assist voters of all abilities.
Learn more about available assistance at https://www.in.gov/idr/hoosiers-vote/voting-faqs/
- Stay Informed
Before Election Day, take some time to research the candidates and issues on your ballot. This preparation will make you feel more confident when casting your vote.
Learn more about candidates in Indiana at https://www.in.gov/sos/elections/candidate-information/
- Report Accessibility Issues
If you encounter any barriers at the polls, such as inaccessible entrances or non-functioning voting machines, report them immediately. If you have a complaint about your polling place’s accessibility limitations, please call the Hoosier Voter Hotline to report the issue.
The toll-free number is: 866-IN1-VOTE (866-461-8683). Help America Vote Act staff will be on hand to answer the calls from 6:00AM to 7:00PM EDT on Election Day, and 8:00AM to 4:30PM on normal business days.
By planning ahead and knowing your rights, you can make sure your voice is heard. Voting is your chance to shape the policies that impact your life, and no one should face obstacles in exercising this vital right. Let’s continue to break down barriers and ensure full access to the democratic process for people with disabilities.
Happy voting!
