All products featured on Self are independently selected by our editors.
However, we may receive compensation from retailers and/or from purchases of products through these links.
At this point, it may take too long for your ballot to arrive and count toward the election.
Rachael Presky/Adobe Stock
Theyve watched the debates (oropted out).
Now theyre mailing in ballots and lining up at polling places to exercise their constitutional right.
Voters are incredibly invested in the outcome of this election.
For weeks, people have discussed voting plans, and now theyre following through.
1. confirm youre registered to vote.
Even if youre pretty sure youre registered,double-checkbefore you hit the polls.
Its better to know earlier rather than later if youre actually not registered.
Locate your polling place or ballot box.
Typically, youll get mail from your local board of elections about your designated polling place.
Gather any documentation you oughta vote in person.
Some states require that you bring identification with you, so double-check you have that handy.
you’re able to checkhereto see whether your state requires it.
Research your down-ballot candidates.
But what about state and local candidates?
Youre allowed to bring notes into your voting booth with you, according tousa.gov.
If youre voting by mail, commit those deadlines to memory.
And follow the instructions when filling out your ballot.
As mentioned above, most mail-in ballots come with instructions.
Yes, its tempting to gloss over them, but confirm you read the directions carefully.
You also want to vote on a clean flat surface (away fromwine glassesand spaghetti sauce).
Voting correctly (and mailing it on time) will ensure that your voice counts.
7. see to it you’re free to access your polling place.
If they dont have the things you need, knowing can help you troubleshoot any challenges ahead of time.
Plan around your work schedule and other obligations if necessary.
Even if your job isnt your main concern, plan to vote based on your other obligations.
If youre voting in person, figure out your transportation plan.
Its one thing to know your polling place, but how youll get there is an entirely different question.
If someone in your householddrives, can you travel together?
If you have kids, think about your childcare options.
AsSELF previously reported, states like Georgia have reported voting wait times up to 10 hours.
So childcare for voting might be more complicated than it would be for running a quick errand.
I’m hoping that our neighbors will be neighborly, Carr says.
Consider bringing someone with you (even if you should probably stand six feet apart).
Additionally, if you have to stand in line for hours, its probably ideal to have a buddy.
Pack food, water, and any medication you may need.
That might include packing meals,snacks, and water.
Dont forget your hand sanitizer and mask.
What can you do?
Grab your mask and hand sanitizer (and use them both).
Wherever possible, stand six feet away from folks who arent in your household.
And if youre squeamish about the voting booth, we have good news.
Plan your outfit around the weather.
If youre standing around for hours, your outfit requires a little planning.
Have an emergency number handy for any voting issues.
Its okay to pack a few small comforts (like a portable chair).
Its a necessity (and your polling site should provide one).
Plus, you might want to have a fully charged phone if youre heading back home at night.
If nothing else, it will make taking your I VOTED selfie a little easier.
17. check that you have an Election Day self-care plan.
That can range from feeling tired and chilly to having literal aches and pains.
To that end, think through how youll care for yourself once youve cast your vote.
