Request an Absentee Ballot in New York City

Elections and Campaign Finance New York 3 Minutes Read · published February 02, 2026 Flag of New York

In New York City, New York, registered voters who cannot vote in person may request an absentee ballot for local, state, and federal elections. This guide explains who is eligible, how to apply, timelines, and where to get official forms so you can complete the absentee process correctly and on time. Check official instructions early each election cycle and follow the submission methods required by the Board of Elections.[1]

Who is eligible

Eligible voters generally include those who will be absent from their county on election day, illness or disability, duties related to primary care, or certain employment-related reasons. Specific eligibility categories and required certifications are set by New York State election law and explained by the Board of Elections.

How to request an absentee ballot

  1. Complete the official Application for Absentee Ballot (available from the New York State Board of Elections or the NYC Board of Elections).
  2. Observe application deadlines: applications for absentee ballots must be received by the deadlines published for each election; request as early as possible.
  3. Submit the application by mail, in person at your local Board of Elections office, or through any methods explicitly authorized on the official application page.
  4. Once you receive the ballot, follow the instructions for completing, signing, and returning it by the deadline—typically the close of polls on election day unless otherwise stated.
Apply early to allow time for mail delivery and any required follow-up.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of absentee voting rules is handled under New York election law and by election officials; details about criminal or civil penalties for fraud or improper handling of absentee ballots are set by state law and interpreted by enforcement agencies. Specific fine amounts and escalation steps are not specified on the cited voter guidance pages, and criminal penalties are described in statute rather than on election information pages.[2]

  • Fines: not specified on the cited voter guidance pages; consult the Election Law text or enforcement notices for exact amounts.
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offences are governed by statute and prosecuted under applicable election and criminal laws; specific escalating ranges are not specified on the cited pages.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: may include criminal charges, court proceedings, and orders; procedural remedies are set by courts and election authorities.
  • Enforcer and complaints: your local Board of Elections enforces absentee voting rules and accepts complaints; contact details and complaint procedures are provided by official election offices.[1]
  • Appeals and review: challenges and appeals follow statutory procedures and court review; exact time limits for appeals are set in statute or court rules and are not specified on the voter guidance pages.
Report suspected absentee ballot fraud to the Board of Elections immediately.

Applications & Forms

The official document is the "Application for Absentee Ballot." The application form, submission instructions, and any required declarations are published by the New York State Board of Elections and the NYC Board of Elections. Fees are not required to apply for or to receive an absentee ballot. For the official application and submission options, see the state and city election pages.[2]

How-To

  1. Confirm your voter registration and eligibility with the NYC Board of Elections.
  2. Download or request the Application for Absentee Ballot from the official Board of Elections site and complete it fully.
  3. Send the completed application by the authorized method and within the deadline for your election.
  4. When you receive the ballot, follow the instructions, sign where required, and return it by the stated deadline.
  5. If your ballot is rejected or you experience problems, contact the Board of Elections immediately to follow challenge or cure procedures.

FAQ

Who can apply for an absentee ballot?
Registered voters who meet state eligibility criteria such as absence from the county, illness or disability, and certain caregiving or work-related duties.
How do I submit the application?
Submit by mail or in person according to the methods authorized on the official application; some elections may allow additional methods specified by the Board of Elections.
Is there a fee to apply?
No fee is required to apply for or to receive an absentee ballot according to official election guidance.

Key Takeaways

  • Apply early and follow official submission methods to avoid delays.
  • Use the official application form from the Board of Elections.
  • Contact your local Board of Elections immediately if you have issues or suspect misconduct.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] NYC Board of Elections - Absentee voting information
  2. [2] New York State Board of Elections - Absentee voting
  3. [3] NY.gov - Apply for an absentee ballot

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