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Have You Made a Plan to Vote This Year?
For military spouses living overseas, election deadlines can arrive sooner than expected. The good news is that military families have access to a simple and secure absentee voting process that makes it possible to participate in U.S. elections from anywhere in the world. Here’s how to make sure your vote is counted.
1. Request Your Absentee Ballot
The first step is completing a Federal Post Card Application (FPCA) through the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP).
The FPCA allows election officials to confirm your eligibility and send your ballot to your preferred address or delivery method. FVAP recommends submitting a new FPCA each year to keep your information current and ensure your ballot request remains active.
2. Return Your Ballot Early
Once you receive your absentee ballot, complete and return it as soon as possible.
Deadlines and return requirements vary by state, so be sure to review your state’s rules. Voting early helps avoid unexpected delays caused by international mail, travel, or busy military family schedules.
3. Have a Backup Plan
If your ballot doesn’t arrive in time, you may be able to use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB).
The FWAB serves as a backup ballot for eligible UOCAVA voters and can be completed online or downloaded and mailed to your election office. If both your regular ballot and FWAB are received, election officials will determine which ballot counts according to state law.
4. Help Other Military Families Make a Plan
After you’ve requested your ballot and made your voting plan, consider reminding other military spouses and family members to do the same. A quick message could help ensure someone doesn’t miss an important deadline.
Have questions about absentee voting? Visit the Federal Voting Assistance Program (FVAP) website for information on ballot requests, state deadlines, and voting resources for military families and overseas voters.
