Tips for Voters to Reduce Spread of COVID-19

Check that you are registeredexternal icon

• This may increase your available voting options, and can also help you spend less time at your voting place

Check how you can voteexternal icon

• Some states offer early voting and, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, some have expanded this option
• Consider early voting, if available, in case you are unable to vote on election day
• States must offer accessible options for people with disabilitiesexternal icon, but options may vary by state, so check ahead of time what your state’s option may be
• If you live in a long-term care facility pdf icon[1.2 MB, 15 pages]external icon or similar place, you may be able to have supervised absentee voting

Check when and where you can voteexternal icon

• Your place to vote may have changed from previous elections because of COVID-19
• If you are at higher risk for getting very sick from COVID-19, plan to vote when it is not so busy, like mid-morning
• Check ahead for places or times you can vote
• Check ahead with your place to vote for options for people with disabilities

Plan how you can get to your place to vote in the safest way possible

• Try to avoid crowded ride sharing services, buses, or trains
• Protect Yourself When Using Transportation
• Some public and private transport services offer free or cheaper rides for voting
• Older people or people with disabilities may be able to get help with getting to their voting place
  • Check if in your area private carpool companies, volunteer organizations or your city public transportation offer these services
• If you drive and if you are able to check the voter line, join when the line is shorter

Plan for someone to take care of your loved ones

• Taking children with you to vote can increase their risk of getting COVID-19
• If you are the main caregiver at home, ask someone to watch your loved ones
• Ask this person to wear a mask if they don’t live with you

Be prepared so you can limit the time you are in your voting place

• This will help reduce risk for COVID-19 by avoiding delays when you vote
• If you can, fill in any registration forms before going to vote
• The more prepared you are, the less time you may have to spend at the voting site
• Check to see if your state has sample ballots
• To speed up voting, you can make a list or fill in a sample ballot to take with you

Voters have the right to vote, regardless of whether they are sick or in quarantine.

Voters who are sick or in quarantine should take steps to protect poll workers and other voters. This includes wearing a mask, staying at least 6 feet away from others, and washing your hands or using hand sanitizer before and after voting. You should also let poll workers know that you are sick or in quarantine when you arrive at the polling location. Check with local authorities for any additional guidance.

Bring your own supplies

• Use this checklist to remember things to bring with you when you go to vote:
  • Necessary documentation such as your identification (check with your voting site)
  • A mask
  • An extra mask
  • Tissues
  • Hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol
  • Water
  • Black ink pen
  • Bring prepared items with you (e.g., registration forms, sample ballots)

Wear a mask

You should wear a mask consistently and correctly in public and around people who don’t live with you.

• If you must take your mask off, use hand sanitizer before and after
• Have an extra mask in case yours gets wet or dirty

A few people might not be able to wear a mask because of a disability or condition.

Protect yourself when using transport

• Open windows if you can
• Wear a mask
• Avoid touching things if you can and use hand sanitizer if you do
• Stay 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) apart from others if you can

Clean your hands often

• Wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol before entering and after leaving your place of voting
• Use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol before and after touching items that many others may have touched, such as door handles
• Do not wipe down voting equipment unless you are told to do so

Keep your distance from others

• Stay at least 6 feet (about 2 arm lengths) from other people as much as you can
• Stay apart even if you are wearing masks