Be a Voter
Voting is the most powerful action you can take as a citizen. Voting determines who gets to make laws, write policy, and prioritize the work of our government.
Election Day
Tuesday, November 3, 2026
Here’s every way to vote and when each one starts.
Key dates
Friday, September 18
Absentee ballots start going out, and in-person absentee voting begins.
Tuesday, October 13
Deadline to register online (11:59 p.m.) or on paper (5 p.m.). Miss it and you can still register in person when you vote — just bring proof of residence.
Friday, October 16
Early Voting begins. This is new in Minnesota this year: you sign a short certificate and put your ballot straight into the counter, the same as on Election Day.
Tuesday, October 20
Recommended deadline to apply for a mail ballot, so there is time to receive it and send it back.
Monday, November 2
Last day to vote early in person.
Tuesday, November 3
Election Day. Mail ballots must be returned by today.
Questions? Call the Minnesota Secretary of State’s voter helpline at 1-877-600-VOTE (8683). Voting information is also available in Somali.
Check your registration
Plan your vote
People who make a plan to vote are more likely to actually vote. Make your plan now to ensure your vote gets cast.
Help your neighbors vote
Minnesota has some of the highest voter-turnout rates in the country, but turnout falls sharply in midterm years like this one, and a lot of Minnesotans who mean to vote don’t. You can change that. It can be as simple as reminding a friend to vote, helping a neighbor request an absentee ballot, or working as an Election Judge.
