Montana

Step 1: Apply

Can I vote-by-mail in my state?

Yes, Montana will allow any registered voter to request a ballot. Follow the application steps below. Governor Bullock has also given counties the option to automatically send a ballot to registered voters. Yellowstone, Missoula, Cascade, Gallatin, and Lewis and Clark have announced they will. Call your local election office to ask them what they're planning. Click here to register as a new voter or to check your existing registration. (It's always a good idea to double-check.) https://sosmt.gov/elections/vote/



Application form link:

Some counties plan to send all registered voters a ballot. You might want to call ahead and see if you need to fill out an application or not. https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/Application-for-Absentee-Ballot.pdf



Where should I send my completed application?

Completed applications may be mailed OR dropped off at your county election office: https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf Ballots will be available after October 2, 2020. You may pick one up when you drop off your application in person.



When is the application due?

Technically, applications must be received by noon the day before Election Day (November 2, 2020) To avoid delays within the election office and the postal service, we recommend you send it immediately and no later than the middle of October. Ballots will be available after October 2, 2020. You may pick one up when you drop off your application in person at your county election office. New voters must register by October 24, 2020.



I have a question that wasn't answered here.

Please call the county election office where you live. They are in charge of elections and should be able to help you. https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf



Step 2: Vote-by-Mail

When do I have to mail or drop off my completed ballot?

Technically, ballots must be received by 8pm Election Day. (November 3, 2020) To avoid delays within the election office and the postal service, we recommend you return your voted ballot as soon as it arrives and no later than the middle of October. You may also drop your ballot at your local election office. It's a good idea to call and check first. https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf



Does it require a stamp? Two?

Read the outside of the envelope to see if additional postage may be required. The US Postal service will deliver any ballot, regardless of whether or not it has the correct postage, or any at all. They will charge the local election office for any unpaid postage. https://time.com/4547550/absentee-mail-ballot-postage-stamp-postal-service-usps/



Can my ballot be dropped off at a polling site or dedicated drop box?

Decisions about drop boxes have not yet been made, but all county election offices will allow you to drop off your ballot. Because of the shift toward vote-by-mail, there won't be as many polling locations. You should not plan to drop your absentee ballot at your polling place.



Is there any way to check if my ballot was received?

https://app.mt.gov/cgi-bin/voterinfo/voterinfo.cgi



I have a question that wasn't answered here.

Please call the county election office where you live. They are in charge of elections and should be able to help you. https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf



Early In-Person Voting

Does my state offer any in-person early voting days?

Dates and availability of in-person early voting are subject to change as each county decides whether or not to move toward an election primarily conducted by mail. October 4-November 2, 2020



Link to information and locations:

https://app.mt.gov/cgi-bin/voterinfo/voterinfo.cgi



I have a question that wasn't answered here.

Please call the county election office where you live. They are in charge of elections and should be able to help you. https://sosmt.gov/Portals/142/Elections/Forms/electionadministrators.pdf