Absentee and mail ballot deadlines by state for the November 3, 2026 election

Each state sets its own deadlines to request an absentee or mail ballot and to return it. This table lists both for 53 states and territories for the November 3, 2026 general election, each linked to its official source. Return deadlines differ: some states need the ballot in hand by Election Day, others count ballots postmarked by Election Day that arrive later.

From the deadlines we check against each state's official sources, updated October 15, 2026.

Questions

What is the deadline to request an absentee ballot?

It depends on the state, often 7 to 11 days before Election Day. Find your state in the table; mail can be slow, so apply early.

When does my mail ballot have to be returned?

Some states need it received by the time polls close on Election Day; others accept ballots postmarked by Election Day that arrive within a few days. Your state's row has its rule.

Can anyone vote by mail?

Most states let any voter vote by mail; some require a reason. Your state's page links to its official rules.

See also voter registration deadlines by state, early voting dates by state, polling hours by state and where to vote.