In Pennsylvania, there are two options for mail ballots. In order to request either ballot type, you must be registered to vote. You can check your registration status and review your registration information online. If you need to register to vote in Pennsylvania, you can do so online. Alternatively, you can download the registration form.
Any qualified voter may request a Mail-In Ballot online. No reasons for this type of ballot are required. Alternatively, you can download the mail-in application.
NOTE: You have the option to be added to the annual mail-in ballot request list and you will then receive an application to renew your mail-in ballot request each year. Once your request is approved, you will automatically receive ballots for the remainder of the year, and you do not need to submit an application for each election.
If you will be out of your municipality on election day or if you have a disability or illness that prevents you from going to your polling place on election day, you may request an Absentee Ballot online. Alternatively, you can download the absentee application.
Completing Your Mail Ballot
1) Read the instructions carefully and mark your ballot. Be sure to complete the front and back of each page. Be sure to use blue or black ink, only.
2) Your completed ballot must be enclosed and sealed in the inner secrecy envelope that indicates “official election ballot” or it will not be counted.
3) Enclose the sealed inner secrecy envelope in the pre-addressed outer return envelope. And then, complete, SIGN and DATE the voter’s declaration on the outside of the outer return envelope. If you do not sign and date below the declaration on the return envelope your ballot will not be counted.
4) Return your completed ballot to the county election board. Absentee and Mail-in Ballots must be received by 8 PM on election day by Berks County Election Services. To ensure your ballot is received by the deadline, return the ballot as soon as possible. A “postmark” by election day is NOT sufficient.
Beginning October 24, mail ballot drop boxes are available at the Agricultural Center, 1238 County Welfare Road, Leesport, and at the Services Center, 633 Court Street, 1st Floor, Reading. Otherwise, you can drop your mail ballot at any USPS office or mail box.
Day | Agricultural Center | Services Center |
Weekdays | 8 AM to 5 PM | 8 AM to 5 PM |
Saturday before the election | 8 AM to 1 PM | 8 AM to 1 PM |
Sunday before the election | 12 PM to 4 PM | 12 PM to 4 PM |
Monday before the election | 8 AM to 8 PM | 8 AM to 8 PM |
Tuesday, Election Day | 7 AM to 8 PM | 7 AM to 8 PM |
If you have a disability and cannot deliver your mail ballot yourself, you can download a form which allows you to designate someone to deliver your ballot for you.
In an emergency situation after the usual deadline for requesting mail ballots at 5 PM on the Tuesday before the election has passed, you may request an Emergency Ballot and designate someone to deliver the ballot for you.
You can check your mail ballot status online.