When should I use the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot (FWAB)?

You should use the Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot (FWAB) if your official ballot does not arrive in time for you to return it by Election Day. For instance, if you send in your registration/ballot request form for the November general election and have not received your official ballot from your local election office by mid-October, we suggest you complete and send in the FWAB.

You can find the FWAB form here on our website.

If you have a Voter Account, you can simply login and click to print your FWAB. The system will take you through the data-entry process with your information pre-filled into the fields. You can update/edit your information or just click "Continue" if it is accurate. Note that a Voter Account is not needed to generate a FWAB; it is merely a tool for voters to speed up the process.

The FWAB cover sheet is nearly identical to the Voter Registration/Ballot Request form, however it is titled “Voter's Declaration/Affirmation - Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot.” Our system assists you in properly completing the cover sheet per your state's requirements.

After completing the FWAB form, you must download, print, sign and mail it to the address provided in the instruction letter that prints with the form. It is important that you read the instruction letter so that you know where and how to mail in your form!

Some states allow voters to fax or email ballots. To find ballot return options for your state, go to the State Voting Requirements page on our website. Enter your state, and on the following page select "Overseas & Military Voters" and “Voting Materials Transmission Options.”

Note: If you send in a FWAB and then receive your regular ballot from your election office, you should still complete the regular ballot and send it in. This is an allowable practice and does not equal voting twice. Always return your ballot.