Some jurisdictions in Minnesota hold elections by mail instead of voting at polling places.
Cities with fewer than 400 registered voters and townships of any size can choose to hold elections by mail.
You can see if you live in a mail ballot precinct by entering your address into the Polling Place Finder. If you live in a mail ballot precinct, you will see a message that ballots are mailed to registered voters. You will also see the location of the central polling place where you can drop off their ballot, vote in person, or register on Election Day.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about voting in mail ballot precincts are below. For more details about the process of switching to mail ballot precincts, and how voting works there, see the Mail Ballot Precincts webpage.
What if I move to a mail ballot precinct close to the election date?
If you update your voter registration to your new address at least 21 days before the election, election officials will automatically send you a ballot by mail.
Otherwise, you will need to apply to have a ballot mailed to your new address. Election officials will send you a registration application with your ballot materials.
Will any polling places be open on Election Day?
The office of the election official conducting the election will be open as a polling place on Election Day. To find this location, enter your address into the Polling Place Finder.
You can drop off your ballot there, or register and vote in person. The polling place location may be distant. You can avoid a lengthy trip on Election Day by registering to vote at least 21 days before the election. This will ensure you receive your ballot by mail.
Will I vote by mail for every election?
Your city or town can choose which elections to hold by mail. Most hold state primary and general elections by mail, and hold local elections at a polling place. Use the Polling Place Finder before each election to determine if that election will be held by mail or at a polling place.
When will I get my mail ballot?
Election officials send ballots to all registered voters using non-forwardable mail. They send ballots between 46 days to 14 days before the election. You must be registered to vote at your current address to receive a ballot.
Do I need a witness for my ballot?
Yes. A witness is an eligible Minnesota voter or a Notary.
How do I return my ballot?
You can return your ballot by mail, in person or by asking someone else to return it for you. The address will be printed on the voting materials. No postage is necessary.
Ballots returned in person must be delivered by 8 p.m. on Election Day. Ballots returned by mail must be received on or before Election Day. You can track the status of your ballot and confirm that it was received and counted.