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8 questions and 8 answers about voting in Michigan

Courtesy H2Woah!
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Flickr http://j.mp/1SPGCl0

We're inching closer to the last day that you can register to vote in Michigan. As we near the final day, we want to make sure that everyone has the knowledge about where to vote.

Given that, here are 8 questions you may have about registering to vote and their answers.  

1) When's the last day that I can register to vote?

If you want your voice heard in this election, you must register to vote by Tuesday, October 11?. Here's a link to the application.

2) Am I already registered?

You can answer that question by checking Michigan Voter Information Center. Here's the link.

3) Do I fit eligibility criteria to register?

According to the Secretary of State, you must fill three criteria:

  • Be a U.S. Citizen
  • Be at least 18 years old by Election Day
  • Be a Michigan resident in the city or township where you're applying to register.

4) I've recently moved. Do I need to re-register?

Yes. All people moving to a new city or township must re-register, according to the Michigan Secretary of State's office. People moving within a city or township need only update their address. Here's the change of address form from the Secretary of State.

5) Where can I register, and what do I need?

There are three places listed where you can vote: 

  1. By mail. Here's the form.
  2. At your county, city or township clerk's office.
  3. At any Michigan Secretary of State office.

Those registering to vote by mail must submit some proof of identification, according to the Secretary of State. This can include:

  • Entering your driver's license number or personal identification number in the form.

OR

  • Sending a photocopy of either your driver's license, personal ID card, paycheck stub, utility bill, bank document or government document that lists your name and your address. 

6) How do I know that I've received voter registration?

You'll receive a voter registration card after your application's processed that will show where to cast your ballot.

7) I can only submit an absentee ballot. What criteria qualify an absentee voter?

According to the Secretary of State, someone can vote absentee if they meet any of these criteria:

  • Cannot vote in a poll without assistance
  • Is age 60 or older
  • Is expected to be absent from the city or township on election day during the entire time polls are open
  • Is in jail awaiting arraignment or trial
  • Will work as a precinct inspector somewhere other than the precinct they're registered
  • Cannot attend the poll due to religious beliefs

If you fill any of these criteria, you can write your city or township clerk a signed letter explaining why you need an absentee ballot. Absentee ballot applications are also available online.

8) How do I decide who to vote for?

Various websites can help you decide between candidates. For instance, Vote411.org allowsusers to input your address and provides you information on all votes happening on your ballot -- in addition to giving you information on each candidate.

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