What are the rules for provisional ballots?

In Massachusetts, provisional ballots are cast when an individual’s voter registration is in question. When a voter shows up to the polls and their name is not located on the voter list, they are usually required to cast a provisional ballot. This allows a voter to cast a ballot even when their registration is less than certain. Provisional ballots are then reviewed by election officials to ensure that the voter was eligible to cast a ballot. For example, officials must confirm that the voter is a Massachusetts resident and is registered to vote in the municipality in which they are casting a ballot. Provisional ballots are not counted until the election has ended and the voter’s eligibility has been verified. Voters will be notified if their ballot was not counted, and will also be informed of the reason why their ballot was not counted. If the provisional ballot is deemed valid, it will be counted on Election Day. However, if the voter’s eligibility is not able to be verified before the end of Election Day, the ballot may still be counted later. Provisional ballots cast in Massachusetts are kept on file for at least six months so that if additional information is needed to verify a voter’s eligibility, the ballot can still be counted.

Related FAQs

What are the rules regarding early voting?
Who is eligible to vote in the United States?
What is the process of voting?
What are the rules for write-in candidates?
What are the requirements for dissolving or forming a political party?
What is a statewide voter registration database?
What is the role of the federal government in elections?
What is meant by the term “precinct”?
What is the role of political consultants in the election process?
What is the role of county supervisors in the election process?

What are the rules for provisional ballots?

Related FAQs

Related Blog Posts