2020 Election: Registering to Vote

Posted on August 26, 2020 by Libbie Chapuran

This election year, LeadingAge Minnesota encourages all Minnesotans, including those living and serving in long-term care settings, to actively engage in the election process by practicing their right to vote. But before you can vote, you must register.

In Minnesota, you may register at least 21 days before Election Day, or you may register on Election Day at your polling place. Below you’ll find a few considerations and resources to help you and those you serve register to vote in Minnesota. 

Voter Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible to vote in Minnesota you must be:

• At least 18 years old on Election Day
• A citizen of the United States
• A resident of Minnesota for 20 days immediately preceding Election Day
• Have any felony conviction record discharged, expired or completed
• Not be under court-ordered guardianship where a court has revoked your voting rights
• Not have been ruled legally incompetent by a court of law

You can see your Vote Registration Status at https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterStatus.aspx. Your registration remains current until you move, change your name, or do not vote for four consecutive years. You may update your registration information by completing another Voter Registration Application. You may register to vote by completing a Voter Registration Application and submitting it online or by mail or you may register on Election Day.

Registration Deadlines

Register online (https://mnvotes.sos.state.mn.us/VoterRegistration/VoterRegistrationMain.aspx) — deadline is 11:59 p.m., 21 days before Election Day.

• Register by mail (http://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/register-to-vote/register-on-paper/) — applications must be received by your election office by 5 p.m., 21 days before Election Day.
• Register on Election Day http://www.sos.state.mn.us/elections-voting/register-to-vote/register-on-election-day/ 

Once you’re registered to vote, you’ll have several different ways to cast your ballot. While COVID-19 may make voting seem more complex in this election year, our State is doing everything they can to make the process as seamless as possible. We are currently fine-tuning additional information for you to consider ensuring that you and those you serve have no trouble casting ballots for the November election. Look for our forthcoming LeadingAge Minnesota Election Guide in days to come.