Three Ways to Vote in Illinois and the NEW Illinois Postmark Law

Judi Zapp
2 days ago
3 min read

Voting is a fundamental right and privilege. Knowing about the three ways to cast your ballot is important. This post explains the three main ways to vote: Early Voting, Mail-in Voting and Election Day Voting. It also explains about how the new Illinois postmark law impacts mail-in voting.

VOTING TIP: 2026 Midterm Voting Resources including brochure with list of candidates and candidate profiles at, https://www.algtwpgop.org/

Three Ways to Vote in Illinois

Illinois offers voters flexibility with three primary voting methods. Each option has its own process and deadlines, so knowing the details can help you avoid common pitfalls.

2/5/26. EARLY VOTING begins.

A good option if you want to avoid the rush or have scheduling conflicts on Election Day.

Benefits include:

Avoiding long lines: Early voting sites often have shorter wait times.
Flexibility: You can vote at any early voting location in your county, not just your assigned polling place.
Same-day registration: Some early voting sites allow you to register and vote on the same day if you meet eligibility requirements.

3/17/26. In-Person Voting on Election Day

Polling locations are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on election day. The traditional way to vote is by going to your assigned polling place on Election Day. This method is straightforward but requires planning to ensure you can get to your polling place during voting hours.

Here’s what you need to know:

Find your polling place: Use the Illinois State Board of Elections website or local election authority to locate your polling site.
Bring identification: While Illinois does not require ID for most voters, first-time voters who registered by mail may need to show ID.
Vote in person: You will receive a paper ballot or use an electronic voting machine, depending on your precinct.

2/5/26. Vote By Mail begins. Mail-in voting offers convenience but requires attention to deadlines and proper handling to ensure your vote counts. Be Aware of the NEW Postmark Law.

Here’s how it works:

Request your ballot: Submit an application online, by mail, or in person to your local election authority.
Receive and complete your ballot: Fill out the ballot carefully, following all instructions.
Return your ballot: You can mail it back or drop it off at a designated location.

How the New Postmark Law Affects Mail-in Ballots in Illinois

Another REASON to Vote in person surrendering your Mail-in Ballot or dropping your ballot at a secure election authority box? YOU Decide!

Illinois recently, 12/25, passed a new postmark law that changes the rules for mail-in ballots. This law affects when your mail-in ballot is considered valid and how election officials handle ballots received after Election Day.

What the New Postmark Law Means

Postmark deadline: Your mail-in ballot must be postmarked on or before Election Day.
Receipt deadline: Election officials will accept ballots postmarked by Election Day if they arrive within 14 days after the election.
Verification process: Officials will verify the postmark date to ensure eligibility.

What Voters Should Do

To make sure your mail-in ballot counts under the new law:

Mail your ballot early: Don’t wait until the last minute to send your ballot.
Consider dropping off your ballot at an official location. Choose to vote in person, you can go to the polls and surrender the “Vote by Mail” ballot.
Check your ballot status: Use McHenry County Ballot Tracking Site, https://mchenryvbm.ballottrax.net/voter/

Additional Tips for Voting in Illinois

Understanding the voting options and new laws is just part of the process. Here are some practical tips to make voting easier:

Register early: Illinois requires voters to register at least 28 days before an election.
Update your address: If you moved, update your registration to avoid issues at the polls.
Double-check your ballot: Make sure you fill out your mail-in ballot correctly, including signing the envelope.
Use official drop boxes: If you prefer not to mail your ballot, use official drop boxes available in many counties.
Stay informed: Election rules can change, so check official sources regularly.

Summary

Illinois voters have three main ways to cast their ballots: Early voting in person, in-person on Election Day, and Voting by mail. Whether you choose to vote in person or by mail, knowing the rules and deadlines will help you participate confidently in Illinois elections.

TIP: The NEW Postmark Law could ALSO affect the submission of your Income Tax documents and Property Tax Payments (if not done through your mortgage).

Disclaimer: Information may be generated or summarized using AI tools, and is based on publicly available sources at the time of publication. Accuracy is not guaranteed, and readers should verify all information.