The 2020 election has the potential to change the course of our nation’s history, and every citizen who is eligible to vote can have a say in the outcome. In order for your voice to be heard, though, it is imperative that you register to vote if you have not already done so. New York offers several registration options, and the sooner you begin the registration process, the smoother your voting experience will be on November 3, Election Day.
Who Is Eligible to Register to Vote in New York City?
In order for you to register to vote in New York City for the upcoming election, all of the following must be true:
- You are a United States citizen.
- You have been a resident of New York City for at least 30 days.
- You are at least 18 years old or will be by the end of 2020.
- You are not currently in prison or on parole for a felony conviction.
- You have not been judged mentally incompetent by a court.
- You do not claim the right to vote in a jurisdiction outside of New York City.
If you are between the ages of 16 and 18 and meet all of the other criteria, you will not yet be able to vote in the 2020 election, but you can still choose to pre-register now so that you will be ready to vote in the next midterm elections and in the 2024 presidential election.
Options for Registering to Vote in New York
In New York City, you can register to vote in any of the following ways:
- By mail: To register by mail, you should download an application from the Vote NYC website, request one through the mail, or obtain one at a library, post office, or government agency. You should then complete and sign it by hand and mail it to the New York Board of Elections at least 25 days in advance of the election. For the November 2020 election, the mailing deadline is October 9.
- In-person: You can complete your registration at any of the six New York Board of Elections offices. There is at least one location in each of the five boroughs, and the offices are open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m E.T.
- Online: If you already have a driver’s license or other valid ID from the New York State DMV, you can register by filling out an online registration form.
If you are unsure whether you are registered to vote in New York City, you can check online through the NYC Voter Search, or call to confirm at 1-866-868-3692. Also, if you are already registered but have recently moved to a new location within New York City, you should notify the Board of Elections within 25 days so that you can re-register and vote for local elections in your new area.
Contact a New York Lawyer Today
At JOEY JACKSON LAW, PLLC, we are strong believers in the importance of exercising your voting rights, especially in such a momentous election year. Election results can not only shape laws and legal proceedings but can directly impact individuals and communities for years to come. We are happy to answer any voting questions you may have when you contact a passionate Brooklyn attorney today at 833-563-9522.
Sources:
https://ballotpedia.org/New_York_elections,_2020
https://vote.nyc/page/register-vote