Election 2026: What Michigan Voters Need to Know Before November 3rd

1 hour ago

2 min read

From registration deadlines to early voting and absentee ballots, Michigan residents have several options for participating in the general election.

LANSING, Mich. — Michigan’s general election is Tuesday, November 3, 2026, and voters have several important deadlines to keep in mind. Residents can cast ballots by mail, vote early in person or visit their assigned polling place on Election Day. The Michigan Secretary of State encourages voters to confirm their registration information and review their voting options ahead of time.

Voter Registration Deadlines

Monday, October 19, is the deadline to register to vote online or by mail for the November election. Beginning October 20, eligible residents who need to register or update their registration address must do so in person at their city or township clerk’s office. Registration remains available through 8 p.m. on Election Day, but residents registering during this period must provide proof of residency.

Early In-Person Voting

Michigan’s required early voting period runs from Saturday, October 24, through Sunday, November 1. Early voting sites must operate for at least eight hours each day during that period, although some communities may offer additional days. Voters should confirm their assigned early voting location and operating hours before visiting, as these sites may differ from their Election Day polling places.

Voting by Mail

Michigan voters may request an absentee ballot without providing a reason. Completed ballots can be returned through an authorized ballot drop box, delivered to the appropriate local clerk or mailed with enough time for delivery. For most voters, absentee ballots must reach their clerk by 8 p.m. on November 3; a postmark alone does not meet that deadline. Voters can also check whether their ballot has been received using the state’s online ballot-tracking service.

Election Day Information

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. Voters who are in line when polls close at 8 p.m. are entitled to cast their ballots. Residents can check their registration status, locate their polling place and view a sample ballot through the Michigan Voter Information Center.

Check Your Information Before Voting

Ballots vary by address and may include federal, statewide, legislative, county and local contests, along with ballot proposals. Reviewing a sample ballot in advance can help residents identify the offices and questions appearing in their jurisdiction. Official election information is available at Michigan.gov/Vote, where voters can also find local election clerk contact information.

SCAN TO CHECK YOUR VOTER INFORMATION