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Why mailing a ballot close to Election Day may get it rejected for a late postmark

Oct 9, 2026 · Hansi Lo Wang

Originally published by NPR News Read the original

Why mailing a ballot close to Election Day may get it rejected for a late postmark
A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.
A Wake County Board of Elections employee prepares a mail-in ballot to be sent out to a voter in September in Raleigh, N.C.

If you're using the U.S. Postal Service to return a ballot close to Election Day, officials recommend getting it postmarked at a post office to avoid getting caught up in mail processing changes.

(Image credit: Matt Ramey)

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