Accessible Early Voting in Ohio: Vote Confidently with a Disability

Posted on 09/19/24 by Isabel in Advocacy

Election Day is around the corner. Are you planning to cast your ballot early but worried about challenges in fulfilling your civic duty because of your disability? This experience is common.

Inaccessible voting is a widespread issue, especially for those with disabilities. However, there are resources and support systems in place to assist you. Let's discuss Ohio's accessible early voting options, designed to make the voting process easier and more inclusive for people with disabilities.

Register to Vote

The deadline to register for the 2024 General Election is Monday, Oct. 7, 2024. You can check your voter registration, update your information, and register online. If you need assistance with updating your information, you can contact your local Board of Elections for support.

If your photo ID has your old address, you can still vote if your voter registration is current. Please review Ohio's Voter ID Requirements before casting your ballot.

Accessible Early Voting Options

Ohio offers a range of accessible early voting options, empowering you to choose how to cast your ballot. This control over your voting method can instill confidence in your ability to participate in the democratic process, knowing that you have the power to decide how you want to vote.

In-Person Voting

Early in-person voting starts on Oct. 8 and ends at the end of the day on Nov. 4. You must cast your ballot at your county's early polling location during this time. Please double-check your location's dates and times for early voting.

Curbside Voting

Let's say you want to do early in-person voting, but your disability limits you from entering your polling location. You still can with early curbside voting.

Like curbside pick-up, curbside voting lets you cast your ballot in person without running inside. With this option, two poll workers from opposite political parties will bring you your ballot. You can fill your ballot out in your car or near the door.

If you elect to use early curbside voting, you must contact your polling location in advance to make arrangements.

Vote By Mail

We understand that heading to the polls is not for everyone. That's why you can request an absentee ballot in the mail between 7 and 90 days before Election Day.

Once you receive your ballot, you can complete it at your own pace, ensuring that the voting process is flexible and accommodating to your needs.

You should request an absentee ballot if you cannot vote in person.

Accessible Absentee Voting

Traditional absentee ballots are not accessible for everyone. You may need a ballot with an accessible format. Ohio voters with disabilities can apply for an accessible absentee ballot.

You can apply for an accessible absentee ballot by contacting your local Board of Elections and requesting an accessible format. This option is compatible with assistive technology, allowing you to maintain independence.

When you contact your Board of Elections, specify that you need an accessible format, and they will guide you through the process.

If you have any additional questions about accessible early voting, please get in touch with us or your local Board of Elections.