What are the differences between an Assistant and a Witness when helping a voter complete and/or return their Ballot by Mail Application or mail ballot?
There are key differences between an Assistant and a Witness when assisting a voter with their ballot or application:
- Assistant: Can assist multiple voters as long as the voter is filling out their own materials. Best practice is that assistance is only provided if the applicant specifically requests it. There are no limits on how many voters an Assistant can help. They do not need to state their relationship to the voter but must provide their signature, printed name, and address. Additionally, an individual may assist the applicant by mailing, faxing, or emailing the Application for Ballot by Mail (ABBM) on their behalf. However, an Assistant cannot hand-deliver an ABBM—only the voter is allowed to do so.
- Witness (Application): A witness is typically needed when a voter is unable to sign their application. In this case, the witness fills out the application on the voter’s behalf and must state their relationship to the voter. A witness can only assist one voter’s application per year. They do not need to provide additional contact details.
- Witness (Carrier Envelope): A witness for a voter’s carrier envelope (used to return a completed ballot) is not limited to helping only one voter per year. They can witness multiple carrier envelopes. However, they must provide their signature, printed name, and address.
Can I submit my Ballot by Mail Application by email?
Yes, the scanned application must contain the Voter’s original signature. The original application (hard copy) must also be submitted by mail and be received by our office no later than the fourth (4th) business day after the e-mail was received.
Mail Ballot applications can be emailed to: evapplications@dallascounty.org
How do I verify you received my Ballot by Mail Application?
If you cannot successfully track your mail ballot using our Mail Ballot Tracker Tool or the Texas SOS website’s Ballot by Mail Tracker, please contact us at (469) 627-8683 to review your application status. Our Mail Ballot team will assist you in determining the next steps.
I applied for a mail ballot, but I haven't received it in the mail. What should I do?
Please contact us at (469) 627-8683 or reach us by email to review your application status. Our Mail Ballot team will assist you in determining the next steps.
I applied for a mail ballot last year (or in a previous year). Is my application still valid for this year's election?
You will need to submit a new Mail Ballot Application. Your Mail Ballot Application is only valid for the election(s) held in the year in which your application is received.
How can I find out what will be on my mail ballot?
When will I receive my mail ballot?
Once mailed, the United States Postal Service typically delivers ballots within 3 to 5 business days. Expect extended delivery times for out-of-state or overseas locations. You can easily track your mail ballot using our Mail Ballot Tracker(Opens in a new window) or through the Texas SOS website’s Ballot by Mail Tracker(Opens in a new window).
What is the postage to return a Dallas County ballot by mail?
- Domestic Ballots: All carrier/return envelopes include prepaid postage. Voters do not need to add additional postage.
- Overseas Ballots: Postage rates and requirements depend on the mail service used at your location.
Can I use Priority Mail to expedite the return of my mail ballot?
When returning your mail ballot close to the deadline, you may choose to use Priority Mail or another expedited service. However, please be aware that expedited delivery does not guarantee your ballot will arrive by the deadline outlined in the Dear Voter Letter. Any additional mailing costs are the responsibility of the voter.”
How do I track my mail ballot?
Track your mail ballot by using our Mail Ballot Tracker Tool or the Texas SOS website’s Ballot by Mail Tracker.
I want to Vote In-Person but I have already requested and/or received my mail ballot. What should I do?
If you’ve already received your Mail Ballot, bring it to the Vote Center where you wish to vote in person. You can surrender your mail ballot for a standard ballot. Your mail ballot does not have to be accompanied by the carrier envelope it arrived in; just bring the actual ballot. The judge at the vote center will cancel your mail ballot in the Electronic Poll Book (EPB) and provide you with a request form to cancel your mail ballot. Once the form is completed, you can proceed to vote with a standard ballot.
What happens to my annual mail ballot request if I decide to vote in person for one or more elections during the year?
If you have an Annual Ballot by Mail Application but wish to vote in person for one or more elections during the year, you’ll continue to receive mail ballots for eligible elections throughout the calendar year. To cancel your annual application, you can submit a cancellation request in person at our office, or via mail or email. When submitting a cancellation request by mail or email, please ensure to include your Name, Address, and Signature. Additionally, specify the Election you wish to cancel your application for, or indicate if it pertains specifically to an Annual Application.
When will mail ballots be open and counted?
Mail ballots are open and counted on Election Day.
How do I know my vote was counted?
View your Voter History using our Voter Lookup Tool. You can also contact us at (469) 627-8683 or reach us by email to verify your ballot status.