Are you doing it for the first time this year? You know, spending hours thinking about what to wear, sleepless nights imagining the worst-case scenario, and days worrying about whether you’re doing it right?
Here at Cosmo, just like we have for so many cornerstone moments in your life thus far, we want to make sure *your* first time is a good experience. Which is why we’re launching our first-time voter initiative today. Expect to see So! Much! Info! right here about how, when, and where to cast your ballot this year (which is helpful for the ~experienced~ voter, too, because IDK if you’ve noticed, but suddenly it’s…really confusing?). We’ll be walking you through every single step in order to make sure your vote counts—and that you walk away from the voting booth (or mailbox) feeling totally, completely satisfied.
Here’s how to *actually* plan your voting sitch
Bad at keeping track of all of this? Add these dates right to your cal!
Register to vote
If you haven't already done it...DO IT. Nearly every U.S. citizen who will be at least 18 years old by Election Day is eligible, so go ahead and sign up right now (we’ll wait).
If voting by mail, request your absentee ballot
If you don’t live in a state that automatically mails you an application or ballot, there’s a cutoff on when you can ask for one.
If voting in person, see if you can vote early
Prime time at the polls is November 3, which means that if you can vote before then, you’re less likely to encounter lines.
Do your prep
There’s voting and there’s voting *well*. To do the latter, check out Ballotpedia for a sample ballot and key info about the people and issues you’ll be voting on.
If voting by mail, make sure you’ve got your ballot
If not, call your board of elections so they can track it (do not just request another one—it could look like you’re trying to vote twice). Google “[your county] board of elections phone number” to get their info.
Mail in your absentee ballot if you haven’t already
In some states, you have up until Election Day, but this year, due to ~USPS drama~, experts suggest sending it in 10 mailing days before November 3. Then guess what? You’re done!
IRL voters: Double-check your registration status
Make sure your name is on the list to prevent any day-of problems.
Line up your last-minute voting details
Things like where your polling place is, if you need an ID (check here), and what time you plan to go.
Vote, vote, vote!
This is it, the final thing! You’re all set (at least until the midterms in 2022).
Add to your calFind your method:
