Absentee Ballots

Absent from your county (or, if a resident of New York City, absent from the five boroughs) on Election Day.
Unable to appear at the polls due to temporary or permanent illness or disability.
Primary caregiver for one or more individuals who are ill or physically disabled.
Resident or patient in a Veterans Health Administration Hospital.
Detained in jail awaiting Grand Jury action or confined in prison for an offense other than a felony

Mail: Submit a paper absentee application. Download Application
Letter: Mail a letter with required information (details below).
Online: Use the New York State Absentee Portal Standard | Accessible (for visually impaired voters).
In-Person: Visit the Board of Elections office.

An application form will accompany your ballot if you apply by letter.
Designate someone to pick up your ballot if necessary.
Permanent illness or disability? Apply once to receive ballots for all future elections.
Military or overseas voter? Apply here.
Special needs voter? Use the Accessible Absentee Ballot Application.
Questions? Contact Niagara County Board of Elections at 111 Main St., Suite 100, Lockport, NY 14094. Phone: (716) 438-4040 (Republican), (716) 438-4041 (Democratic).

Online, email, or fax: 15 days before the election.
In-person: Up to the day before the election.
Note: Post Office advises applying at least 15 days before an election for timely delivery.

Mark your ballot as instructed.
Place the ballot in the Security Envelope and sign it.
Put the Security Envelope in the Return Envelope and seal it.
Return methods: Mail, personal delivery at Board of Elections, drop off at early voting or election day site

When Is My Absentee Ballot Due?

Ballot must be postmarked by election day and received within 7 days after the election.
USPS advises allowing sufficient mailing time.