Navigating the election ballot can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to understand what issues are being decided. For Ohio voters in 2024, staying informed is key to making your voice heard. This guide provides essential information about the upcoming election to help you prepare.
Key Dates for the Ohio 2024 Election
Mark these critical dates on your calendar to ensure you’re ready to vote:
- Voter Registration Deadline: Monday, October 7, 2024, 9:00 PM. You must be registered to vote by this date. Online registration is available until midnight at VOTEOHIO.GOV.
- Absentee Voting Begins: Tuesday, October 8, 2024. Early in-person voting starts at your local Board of Elections office. Mail-in absentee ballots will also begin to be sent out.
- Deadline to Request Absentee Ballot by Mail: Tuesday, October 29, 2024. This is the last day to submit your application to receive an absentee ballot by mail.
- Mail-in Ballot Return Deadline: Monday, November 4, 2024. Absentee ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by this date to be counted.
- Election Day: Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 6:30 AM – 7:30 PM. Vote in person at your designated polling location. Note that there is no Election Day voting at the Board of Elections office.
- Absentee Ballot Return Deadline (Non-Mail): Tuesday, November 5, 2024, 7:30 PM. If not returning by mail, absentee ballots must be received at your Board of Elections office by 7:30 PM on Election Day.
Finding Out What’s on Your Ballot
To understand what issues are on the ballot for Ohio in 2024, and to see the list of candidates, here are key resources:
- Check Your Local Board of Elections Website: For detailed information specific to your county, including sample ballots when available, visit your county’s Board of Elections website. For example, Allen County Board of Elections provides candidate and issue lists, and filing deadlines. You can find your county’s BOE through the Ohio Secretary of State’s website.
- View Sample Ballots: Many Boards of Elections provide sample ballots online before the election. This is a great way to review the issues and candidates you’ll be voting on in advance.
Absentee Voting Information
Absentee voting offers flexibility for those who cannot vote in person on Election Day. Here are the hours for early in-person absentee voting at the Board of Elections, although it’s always best to confirm with your local BOE for any updates:
Early In-Person Voting Hours at Board of Elections:
- Weeks One & Two (starting Oct 8): 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday
- Week Three: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday through Friday; 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Saturday; 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM, Sunday
- Week Four of Voting (leading up to Nov 5):
- Monday: 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Tuesday: 7:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Wednesday – Friday: 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Saturday: 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM
- Sunday: 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM
For overseas citizens and military personnel, specific absentee voting information is available here. Family members of these voters can find resources here.
Election Day Polling Locations
On Election Day, November 5, you must vote at your assigned polling location. Use the Polling Location Finder to find your designated polling place.
Staying informed about What Issues Are On The Ballot For Ohio 2024 is crucial for every voter. By understanding the key dates, knowing where to find ballot information, and utilizing absentee voting options if needed, you can confidently participate in the election process. Make sure your voice is heard in Ohio in 2024!
