Michigan Elections: Important Dates To Keep In Mind

MICHIGAN — Thursday is the first day for early voting in Michigan, just a little over a month away from the Nov. 3 election.

But the kickoff of early voting is just one of many important dates to keep in mind as the elections grows closer. There are deadlines if you're still looking to register to vote this November — whether that be to vote absentee or in-person.

Below is breakdown of important election-related dates in Michigan, as provided by the Michigan Secretary of State's office.

Registration Deadlines

There is still time to register to vote in the Nov. 3 election. If you want to register online you can do so until Oct. 19. Likewise, you have until Oct. 19 to register by mail (the envelope must be postmarked by Oct. 19). In Michigan, you can register to vote as late as Election Day if you want, simply by showing up to designated locations in each municipality. You cannot, however, register to vote Nov. 3 at your polling location.

Related: Voter Registration Day 2020 In Michigan: 5 Things To Know

Absentee ballot deadlines

Absentee voting has become increasingly popular in recent elections, due in part to Michigan residents no longer needing an "excuse" to vote absentee. The other big reason, of course, is the presence of COVID-19.

If you're looking to vote absentee, you still have time to register. You can request an application to vote absentee in Michigan as late as 5 p.m. on Oct. 30. The ballot needs to be returned and postmarked by Nov. 2. In Michigan, it is recommended to return your ballot by Oct. 20 if you're voting by mail, according to the Secretary of State office. If you're returning an absentee ballot in person, you can do so by the time polls close on Election Day.

Related: Mail-In Voting In Michigan: Deadlines, How To Get A Ballot

Early voting

Early voting began Thursday is available until Nov. 2. You can find more information about early voting in Michigan here.

Related: Early Voting Begins Thursday In Michigan: What To Know