Make your plan to vote!

You've completed the first step of making your voice heard by registering to vote. Now what's next? Choose your voting style below and we'll help you make a plan!

Not sure if you should vote in-person or absentee? If you're registered at a different location than where you'll be on Election Day (November 3) or if you have COVID-related concerns about voting in-person: you should request an absentee ballot!

If questions come up as you make and execute your plan to vote, we encourage you to swing by our office hours to chat with a staffer! Simply register for the session(s) below that fit your schedule. Once you've registered for a session, you'll receive a follow-up email with a Zoom link.

How are you voting?

Voting In Person

  1. Decide whether you want to vote early (between Saturday, October 24—Sunday, November 1) or on Election Day (November 3)
  2. To Vote Early: The times and locations vary so be sure to check the information for your county at NY's Early Voting Website. Decide which location and time work best for your work and class schedule. Continue to step 4.
  3. To Vote on Election Day: Find your assigned polling location via the NY Elections Website. Keeping in mind your class and work schedule for Nov. 3, and that the polls are open from 6am to 9pm, decide what time you will cast your ballot.
  4. Determine how you will get to your polling location
  5. Block off time on your calendar for when you plan to vote! Don't forget to allow for travel time and the possibility that there will be a line.
  6. Prior to heading out to cast your ballot, visit BallotReady.org to learn more about the candidates and offices you'll see on your ballot.
  7. Follow your plan and make your voice heard!

Voting by Absentee Ballot

  1. Request an absentee ballot via NY Elections Website.
    • The form asks how you want your ballot delivered. If you want your ballot delivered to a different address than the one you are registered at, select mail ballot to me at a different address and enter the address where you want to receive your ballot (for example, your campus address).
    • Check the confirmation box and make sure you click SUBMIT.
  2. Keep an eye out for your ballot to come in the mail.
  3. When it does come, you'll find your ballot as well as a security envelope and a return envelope.
  4. Complete your ballot by taking the following steps:
    1. Review the ballot. If you need to learn about the candidates or offices on your ballot, visit BallotReady.org.
    2. Fill out your ballot with blue or black ink. Do not make any extra marks—this will invalidate your ballot.
    3. Place the ballot in the security envelope, seal the security envelope and sign it. You must seal and sign the envelope.
    4. Place the security envelope inside the return envelope and seal the return envelope.
  5. Place a stamp on the return envelope and get your ballot in the mail to make your voice heard! While all ballots postmarked by Nov. 3 will be counted, we recommend all voters complete and submit their ballot as soon as possible after they recieve it.

    If you live on campus, Vote Oswego has left stamps at the front desk for absentee voters! Swing by and grab one and then head to the mailbox on the parking lot side of Culkin Hall to mail your ballot by November 2!