Vote with an Absentee Ballot

All registered voters in Michigan can vote using an absentee ballot.  You don't need an excuse or reason. Voting with an absentee ballot allows you to vote prior to Election Day or by mail without leaving your home.  You can also return absentee ballots in person to the City Clerk's Office or to an official drop box.

Absentee ballots must be received by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted.  If you are returning an absentee ballot within 2 weeks of Election Day, we recommend returning them to the City Clerk's Office or a drop box to avoid any postal delays.

2023 Permanent Absentee Ballot Sign-Up

Are you a resident who tends to be out-of-town on Election Day?  Are you frustrated by having to continually reapply for your Absentee Ballot before each election?  You may be interested in signing up for the PERMANENT ABSENTEE VOTER BALLOT LIST.  Recent changes to Michigan Election Law permits a one-time application to receive your Absentee Ballot for all elections going forward. 

Permanent Mail Ballot List FAQs

Snowbirds & College Students

If you plan to be out of town for a period and need your absentee ballot sent to your temporary address, fill out the online form below and submit to the City Clerk's Office.

  1. Online
  2. By Mail
  3. In Person

  1. Submit an Absent Voter Ballot Application 

    State law requires voters to complete and sign an Absent Voter Ballot Application before an absentee ballot can be mailed. You can submit the application online using the link below: 

    Apply for an Absentee Ballot Online

  2. Completed Application

    Submitting a request using the above link submits the application automatically to the City Clerk's Office.  Once we receive your completed application, we will mail out your absentee ballot.  

  3. Complete Your Absentee Ballot

    Once you have completed your absentee ballot, you can return your ballot by mail or in-person to the City Clerk's Office. You can also drop voted absentee ballots into one of the three secure drop boxes at Portage City Hall.  You cannot return absentee ballots to precinct polling locations.

  4. Verify Your Absentee Ballot Has Been Received

    You can check to make sure your ballot was received using the Michigan Voter Information Center.  Click the icon for "My Voter Information" and look up your information.  The resulting page will confirm if your absentee ballot has been received. 
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