Whether in Person or by Mail, Plan Your Vote 

Voting is one of the top responsibilities you have as an American citizen. It deserves you creating a plan of action to ensure your ballot reaches the box this Election Day. 

Ready to develop your Voting Plan? Find everything you need at How To Vote, read on for additional details to make your voting plan. 

Elements of a Voting Plan 

Heading to the polls? Heading to the mailbox? However you're voting, here's what your plan should include: 

1. Register to Vote & Check Your Voting Status

Are you a U.S. citizen? Over 18? A resident of one of the 50 states? Congratulations, you can vote — if you’re registered. 

• Need to register? Check to see if you've already registered? Request a mail-in ballot? Not a problem, we’ve partnered with TurboVote to make it easy for you to do any or all of the above. 

• Click here to register to vote. 

2. How to Vote – In Person or by Outgoing Mail

• You may decide casting your ballot by mail is the right choice for you. Simply go to TurboVote, scroll down to "Vote by Mail," and request your mail-in ballot. 

• If you plan to vote by mail, make sure you register to vote and request your ballot with enough time to receive it, complete it, and mail it back before Election Day.  

• Plan to head to the polls in person? In many states, voters need specific forms of ID to vote. Check your state's ID requirements ahead of Election Day to ensure you have no issues casting your ballot. 

• Some states allow for same-day voter registration, while others require voters to register ahead of Election Day. Check your state's voter registration deadline to prevent issues at the polls. 

3. When to Vote

• If you're voting by mail, know the deadline for requesting your mail-in ballot so you'll receive it well in advance. Check absentee ballot deadlines here. 

• If you're voting in person, be sure to plan your trip to the polling place. Will you go on Election Day? Or will you head to the polls earlier if your state allows early voting? 

• It's good to know day-of-logistics as well. When do the polls close in your area? 

If you are a Starbucks Partner, visit the Partner Hub to ensure you have the time you need to vote on or before Election Day.

4. Where to Vote

• Voting in person? You'll need info on where your polling place is and when it’s open and closed 

• Determine how you will get to the polls. If you are taking public transportation or driving yourself, make sure to allow the time you need.  

• Unsure how to mail your ballot? Check whether there are ballot drop-off locations close to your home or work. 

• In some states, ballot drop boxes are commonly located at large workplaces, libraries, and government buildings. 

5. Get Informed

• If you're passionate about a particular issue, include that in your voting plan! Acknowledging why it's important for you to get to the polls is an important part of motivating yourself to vote — and reminding you why it's worth standing in line. 
• If there's something on the ballot in your state that you strongly support or oppose, that may also be a reason to vote. Check your local and state ballot measures in advance. 

6. Know Your Rights 

Before heading to the polls or requesting a mail-in ballot, make sure you know your rights as a voter. 

• You’re eligible to vote if you meet these three criteria: Over 18, registered to vote, a resident of your state. 

• Note: residency does not  mean “permanent address.” If you are experiencing homelessness or between homes, you may still be able to meet your state’s general residency requirements. 

• If you can’t vote in person on Election Day, you may be able to vote early or with a mail-in ballot. 

• If the polls close while you’re still in line, stay put — you have the right to vote. 

• In some cases you may need to request a provisional ballot if you don’t appear to be registered to vote. Voters are entitled to a provisional ballot - also known as "challenge ballots," or "affidavit ballots" - even if they aren’t in the poll book. 

• Voter accessibility laws ensure that people with disabilities or language barriers are able to vote. Contact your state or local election office to find out what accommodations to expect at your polling place. 

7. Share 

There it is! Your Election Day Plan is complete! 

Now that you’ve polished your Voting Plan, it’s time to share with friends and family.  

On behalf of Democracy, America, and the Founding Fathers and Mothers — thanks for taking the time to vote! 

By Countable