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1. Do I need a witness to vote absentee?

A witness is not needed for the absentee ballots of registered voters in the 2020 Minnesota State Primary. For new registrations or those who need to re-register a witness is still required and the following information below applies: 

Minnesota Election Law requires every voter to show their blank ballot to a witness prior to filling it out. The same witness must also fully complete the witness section on the ballot return signature envelope. Any registered voter in the state can act as a witness. Additional witnesses that do not have a state residency requirement are a:

• College Registrar
• County, City or Town Clerk
• Judicial Officer
• Notary Public
• Any other official who can administer an oath

2. What if I am unable to sign my absentee ballot application?

If you are unable to sign your application you may simply place an "X" mark on the signature line. You may also authorize someone else to sign it for you by having that person sign your name and their name next to it with a note stating that such authorization was given by the voter. A Power of Attorney signature is not acceptable on its own.

3. How do I know if my absentee ballot has been accepted?

You can track the status of your absentee ballot. You will have to provide your name, date of birth, and the same identification number you included on your application.

Track Your Absentee Ballot

4. Why is my absentee ballot rejected?

If your absentee ballot is rejected no later than Friday prior to Election Day, we will send you a replacement ballot and a letter explaining what you need to do to correct the error. The following situations may cause your absentee ballot to be rejected:

• Voter does not sign the return signature envelope
• Witness section not completed or insufficiently completed (must include witness name, witness’s Minnesota address and signature, or a notary information with an official seal or stamp)
• A proof of residence not recorded on the return signature envelope for a non-registered absentee voter
• No voter registration application included by a non-registered voter
• Ballot arrives late after the deadline or is dropped off by a voter at the polling place on Election day

5. I live temporarily or permanently outside of the US territory. Who do I contact for an absentee ballot request?

You need to complete a different absentee ballot application directly through the Ramsey County Elections Office or the Secretary of State’s Office.