FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

All answers apply to voting in Massachusetts.

If I have a problem while voting, what can I do?
You can call the State Voter Information Line at 1-800-462-VOTE(8683).   This number should be posted in all polling places. For state elections and primaries, the office will be staffed from 6:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. when the polls close. If possible, it is best for anyone experiencing a problem voting to call before they even leave the polling place. The state election officials will contact the necessary people to make sure the issue is resolved as soon as possible.

The Disability Law Center is the protection and advocacy agency designated by HAVA (Help America Vote Act – 2002) to help ensure accessible voting in Massachusetts. Specialists on staff can answer questions, respond to legal violations, and troubleshoot problems related to your voting rights.   Call them at (617) 723-8455 or (800) 872-9992 (Voice).

I’ve moved. Do I need to re-register?
Yes, you will need to re-register at your new address. This new registration follows the usual registration rules – in order to vote, you must be registered 20 days before a primary or election, and 10 days before a special town meeting.

State law allows you to vote from a previous address in a state election for up to six month after you have moved, as long as you have not registered elsewhere.  So, if you miss the deadline to re-register, you can wait to register and vote at your former polling location.  Once the election is over, re-register at your new address.

I do not have a driver’s license or other state id.  Can I register to vote?
You may register in-person or by mail. The voter registration form asks for the last 4 digits of your social security number.  You will not be able to register on-line.

I’m not sure if I am registered.  How can I find out?
The state website now offers a simple way to find out if you are registered at your current address.  Visit  My Voter Registration Status  and enter your name, date of birth and zip.  Your  registration status will display.

I’d like to learn more about my elected officials.  How do I find out who they are?
The state page wheredoivotema.org will give you a list of all elected state officials for your address.  The search asks for your number, street name, and street suffix in separate fields, so if your information is not found, check your inputs!

My friend has a legal guardian.  Can she register and vote on her own?
Unless a  guardianship specifically prohibits the person under guardianship from voting, your friend can register and vote.  FYI: Guardianships which prohibit voting are uncommon.

I can’t find the answer to my question.  Who can help me?