Ohio’s primary election was scheduled for March 17, but in-person voting was canceled at the last minute due to concerns about the spread of COVID-19. We finally have answers to how voters can participate, but time is short.

State lawmakers extended the opportunity to vote by mail in the Ohio Primary until April 28th, but ballots must be postmarked by April 27th. If you voted before March 17, your vote will be counted; you need not take further action.

There will be no in-person voting, with limited exceptions. For instance, if you have a disability or are experiencing homelessness, you will be permitted to vote in-person on April 28 at the county Board of Elections where you are registered.

If you haven’t voted yet, request your ballot immediately. Boards of elections will technically accept ballot requests until April 25th, but by submitting your request early, you’ll ensure you have enough time ahead of the April 28 deadline to fulfill the required steps, listed below. 

STEPS TO VOTING BY MAIL BY APRIL 28:

1. Obtain a ballot request form by clicking here or calling your county Board of Elections to ask them to mail you one.
2. Fill out your ballot request form.
3. Mail the form to the Board of Elections for your County (or, if you have relocated during the crisis, the County where you are registered to vote).
4. Fill out your ballot when it arrives. 
5. Return your completed ballot. It must be postmarked by April 27.