As the upcoming election approaches, it’s essential to ensure that our mail-in ballots are completed correctly to have our voices heard. However, did you know that there is a crucial step that many people overlook and could result in their vote being discarded? It’s called the “naked ballot,” and it’s more common than you might think. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your mail-in ballot isn’t “naked.”
The Importance of the Secrecy Envelope
When you receive your mail-in ballot, it will come with two envelopes: one to enclose your completed ballot, and another called the “secrecy envelope.” The secrecy envelope protects your identity and ensures that your vote remains anonymous. When you return your ballot, the secrecy envelope is placed inside the outer envelope, which is then opened by election officials.
Many people do not realize the importance of the secrecy envelope and have their vote discarded. If you fail to use the secrecy envelope or seal it correctly, your ballot will be considered “naked.” This means that anyone handling the envelope can see your vote and identify you, voiding your vote.
So, make sure to read the instructions carefully and use the secrecy envelope provided. Fold your ballot and place it inside the secrecy envelope, seal the envelope, and then place the secrecy envelope inside the outer envelope provided. This way, your mail-in ballot can be counted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Aside from failing to use the secrecy envelope, there are other common mistakes that people make when filling out their mail-in ballot. Be sure to avoid the following:
- Using a black or red pen instead of a blue or black ink pen
- Forgetting to sign the ballot envelope
- Applying too much or too little postage
- Not mailing your ballot early enough
It’s also essential to check the deadline for submitting your mail-in ballot. Some states require that your ballot be postmarked by a specific date, while others require it to be received by a certain day. Ignoring the deadline could mean that your vote won’t be counted.
The Bottom Line
Mail-in voting is an excellent way to exercise our right to vote, especially if we can’t make it to the polls. However, it’s crucial to make sure that we follow all instructions provided to ensure that our vote counts. Remember to use the secrecy envelope, sign the ballot envelope, use the correct pen and postage, and mail your ballot early. By doing so, we can ensure that our voices are heard and make a difference in the upcoming election.
| State | Deadline to Request Mail-in Ballot | Deadline to Submit Mail-in Ballot |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania | October 27, 2020 | November 3, 2020 (8 pm ET) |
| Florida | October 24, 2020 | November 3, 2020 (7 pm CT/8 pm ET) |
| Michigan | October 30, 2020 | November 3, 2020 (8 pm ET) |
Note: Deadlines may vary depending on the state. Check with your local election office for more information.
For more information on how to vote by mail, click here.
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How To Make Sure Your Pennsylvania Mail-in Ballot Isn’t ‘Naked’
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