Discover the Shocking New Rules for Indiana's 2026 Primary Absentee Voting—You Could Lose Your Vote!

For many Americans, Election Day can feel like just another busy day filled with work, family obligations, and other commitments. For some, it may be impossible to get to the polls on May 5 due to a demanding job, caregiving responsibilities, or observing a religious holiday. Additionally, transportation issues can complicate the process even further. Thankfully, absentee ballots help make voting more accessible for everyone.

If you plan to vote absentee in Indiana for the upcoming primary election, it's essential to keep an eye on the deadlines. Requests for absentee ballots must be submitted by April 23, and your completed ballot must be returned by 6 p.m. on Election Day, May 5.

Requesting an Absentee Ballot in Indiana

Indiana residents have three options for requesting an absentee ballot:

• Apply online by visiting indianavoters.in.gov and selecting the “Vote by mail or traveling board” button to complete the application.
• Download the application, fill it out, and then email the completed form along with a copy of your ID to [email protected] or [email protected].
• Print the form, complete it, and mail it with a copy of your ID to the Marion County Election Board’s service center at 3737 E. Washington St., Indianapolis, IN 46201. Alternatively, you can visit the service center in person.

Once your request is approved, a secure envelope with your ballot will be sent directly to your home. Make sure to check that your precinct is correct upon receiving it; the ballot should have initials from both a Democratic and a Republican clerk. If there are any discrepancies, you can return the ballot and request a new one.

Special provisions are available for voters who are serving in the military, overseas, or have visual disabilities. More information can be found on the Indiana voter services website.

Eligibility for Absentee Voting

In Indiana, there are specific reasons that qualify voters for an absentee ballot. These include:

• Being out of Marion County for the entirety of Election Day on May 5.
• Having a disability.
• Being at least 65 years old.
• Working as a poll worker or election official outside your precinct.
• Being scheduled to work throughout the polling hours on Election Day.
• Being confined at home due to illness or injury, or taking care of someone who is ill.
• Observing a religious holiday all day on Election Day.
• Participating in the state’s address confidentiality program, which protects the addresses of victims of domestic violence or stalking.
• Being in the military or a public safety officer.
• Qualifying as a “serious sex offender” as defined by state law.
• Facing transportation challenges that prevent you from reaching the polls.

Required Identification

When filling out your absentee ballot request form, it's crucial to include a valid form of identification. Failure to provide proper ID could cost you your vote. Accepted forms of ID include:

• An Indiana driver’s license
• A passport
• A military ID card

You can also include a photocopy of your ID with your absentee ballot application. If you do not have an ID, you will need to provide one or more of the following numbers: your Indiana driver’s license number, Indiana ID card number, the last four digits of your Social Security number, or your unique voter ID number assigned during voter registration.

Returning Your Absentee Ballot

It’s imperative that your completed absentee ballot is received by 6 p.m. on Election Day, May 5. To ensure your ballot arrives on time, mail it at least 14 days prior to the election. Alternatively, you can return your ballot to any early voting site or vote center location. Note that ballots postmarked before Election Day but arriving afterward will not be counted.

If you’re unable to deliver the ballot in person, you can authorize someone to do it for you. This person must be a family member (by birth, marriage, or adoption) or your attorney and should fill out a specific form to facilitate this process.

For further details on absentee voting, consult Indy’s comprehensive step-by-step guide. Remember, your vote matters, and utilizing absentee voting can help ensure your voice is heard, even when life gets busy.

Mirror Indy, a nonprofit newsroom, is funded through grants and donations from individuals, foundations, and organizations. For more information, contact Mirror Indy reporter Sophie Young at [email protected].