Most Louisiana voters using an absentee ballot for Tuesday's election must have their completed ballot reach their parish registrar of voters by 4:30 p.m. CST Monday, November 2.
The Secretary of State's election calendar sets that deadline for receipt. Putting a ballot in the mail Monday is not enough if it arrives after the deadline.
The state's voting guidance allows a voter or immediate family member to hand deliver a ballot to the registrar. A family member making the delivery must complete a signed statement identifying the relationship. For fax return requirements, contact the registrar directly.
Different rules apply to military personnel and their dependents, U.S. citizens living overseas, and hospitalized voters. The Secretary of State says those voted ballots must reach the parish registrar by 8 p.m. CST on Election Day, Tuesday, November 3. Voters in those categories who need another return method should contact their registrar directly.
Voters notified that their absentee certificate is missing a voter signature, witness signature or mother's maiden name must appear at the registrar's office by 4:30 p.m. Monday to correct it. Alternatively, they may request a replacement ballot, which must meet the same return deadline. Voters should follow the registrar's instructions rather than assume a ballot has been accepted.
For voters casting a ballot in person Tuesday, Louisiana polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m. Anyone already in line at 8 p.m. has the right to vote. The state's GeauxVote app and Voter Portal provide polling place and sample ballot information.