Illinois 2026 General Election
How and When to Vote
Your vote is your voice. Know the dates. Know your options.
Make your plan. And most importantly—VOTE!
Important Dates
August 5, 2026
Applications for Vote By Mail ballots begin
September 24, 2026
Early voting begins at election-authority offices; Vote By Mail ballots can begin being mailed
October 18, 2026
Online voter registration closes at 11:59 p.m.
October 29, 2026
Deadline for Vote By Mail applications to be received by the election authority
November 2, 2026
Last day of early voting
November 3, 2026
ELECTION DAY — polls open 6 a.m.–7 p.m.
The Illinois State Board of Elections confirms that Vote By Mail applications can be submitted beginning August 5, ballots begin being mailed September 24, and mailed applications must be received by October 29.
1. Vote Early
You can vote in person before Election Day without needing to provide a reason.
Early voting begins September 24 at election-authority offices, with additional temporary early-voting locations and schedules determined by local election authorities. Early voting is available through November 2.
Important: Early-voting locations and hours vary by county. Check your local election authority before going.
2. Vote By Mail
Illinois voters can choose to vote by mail.
Applications begin August 5
Ballots begin being mailed September 24
Applications must be received by your election authority by October 29
Follow the instructions that come with your ballot carefully and return it according to the instructions provided by your election authority.
3. Vote on Election Day
You can vote in person on Tuesday, November 3, from 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Your polling location may not be the same location you have used in previous elections, so check your polling place before Election Day.
4. Not Registered? You May Still Be Able to Vote
Regular online voter registration closes October 18 at 11:59 p.m.
However, Illinois allows Grace Period Registration and Voting after the regular registration deadline, including on Election Day. You must register and vote in person at a designated location and provide the required identification.
For Election Day registration, Illinois requires two forms of identification, with at least one showing your current address. Examples include a driver's license, utility bill, lease, student or employee ID, or other accepted documents.
Want to make sure you're registered and that your address is correct?
Never voted before? Register at the link above.
Not sure where you vote? Use the link above for polling-place lookup.
Early voting begins September 24, 2026, Hours and locations may vary
Official Illinois Election Resources
September 24: First day ballots can be mailed to voters
October 29: Deadline for Vote By Mail applications to be received by the election authority
The Illinois State Board of Elections provides all official election resources.
Want to know which congressional, state legislative, county or districts you live in? Click the image above.
