Frequently Asked Questions

Minnesota Election Law requires every voter to show their blank ballot to a witness prior to filling out an absentee ballot. The same witness must also fully complete the witness section on the absentee ballot signature envelope. A witness may be:

• A U.S. Citizen who is at least 18 years old
• A notary public
• A person authorized to administer oaths

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.

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.

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

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