Vote by Mail

Washington State votes by mail. Vote by mail is convenient and gives you extra time to learn about the ballot measures and candidates before casting your vote. Your ballot will be automatically mailed to the address where you're registered to vote. Return your ballot by official drop box or by mail, no stamp needed. Your ballot must be deposited or postmarked by Election Day. If mailed, the USPS recommends that you mail a week before Election Day . 

If you are a registered voter and do not receive your ballot, contact your county elections department.

Vote-by-mail fact sheet 

Your ballot is mailed to you at least 18-days before each election. To received your ballot, your voter registration mailing address must be current. You can update your address online with  VoteWA.gov. 

Path of vote-by-mail in Washington State

Be an informed voter


Washington has many ways to help voters become informed about ballot measures and candidates:

  • The state General Election Voters' Pamphlet is mailed to every household in Washington. 
    • If you need the General Election Voters' Pamphlet in accessible formats or alternate languages call (800) 448-4881 or email  Voters' Pamphlet.
  • For personalized voters' guide, sign in to VoteWa.gov.
  • For local races, visit the Current Election to view the  Online Voters’ Guide.

Other sources of information about candidates and issues include local newspapers, television, libraries, political parties, and campaigns. 

Vote Your Ballot


Your ballot packet will include a ballot, a secrecy envelope, and a return envelope. Follow the instructions that accompany your ballot. If you need a replacement ballot, contact your  county elections department.

If you fail to sign the ballot declaration, or the signature on the ballot declaration does not match the signature in your voter registration record, your county elections department will contact you. 

Return Your Ballot


Your ballot must be:

  • Postmarked no later than Election Day; or
  • Returned to an official ballot drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day; or
  • Returned in person to your  county elections department.

Find out more about the next steps of ballot processing and secrecy.