Early Voting in Boston: Everything You Need to Know

BOSTON, MA — Early voting opened in Boston Monday for the 2016 presidential election.

This is the first time early voting is available Massachusetts. Lawmakers approved the election law change in 2014 and it went into effect this year.

Early voting starts Mon., Oct. 24 and runs until Fri., Nov. 4. It can be done in-person or by mail. It's available to anyone who's registered to vote.

In Boston, early voting will be held at numerous locations, depending on the date. You can find all of those locations and times on the city's website here.

In addition to the presidential race, Massachusetts voters on Election Day will decide four ballot initiatives, including legalizing marijuana and building more charter schools.

FAQ: Massachusetts Early Voting Guide

When is early voting?

Oct. 24–Nov. 4

Who can vote early?

Any voter registered in Massachusetts is eligible to vote early in person. The last day to register to vote in this November's General Election is Oct. 19. You can register online here.

Why early voting?

The law for early voting was signed in 2014 by former Gov. Deval Patrick, and mandates a 10-day voting window before Election Day during the statewide elections, held every two years. This is Massachusetts' first year putting that law into practice.

What do I need to vote?

That depends. You will need to show official identification to a poll worker if it's your first time voting in Massachusetts or your registration status is inactive because you haven’t voted lately. You can check your voter registration status here. A poll worker can additionally request ID if they have reason to be suspicious of your identity, or if you have to complete a provisional or challenged ballot at the polls. More on those situationshere. The following identification documents are acceptable: driver’s license, state-issued ID, recent utility bill, signed lease, rent receipt, or a sworn statement that you're a registered, active voter. You can also show any other official document that includes your name and address.

What's on the ballot?

Voters statewide will be weighing in on the next President of the United States, and on four statewide ballot initiatives. There are also a handful of competitive local elections on the ballot. Find out what's on your ballot here.

And remember...

Even if you don't cast your ballot during the early voting period, you can also vote as usual on Election Day, Nov. 8.

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