When participating in an election for the first time, various unexpected issues can arise. Whether you are dealing with a missing ballot, a marking error, or a missing name from the voter registry, knowing the right steps ensures your vote counts.
Missing or Lost Ballots
If you have not received your mail-in ballot or have lost it, you should first check your registration status on the official voter status website (voterstatus.sos.ca.gov). You can also use the ballot tracking service (wheresmyballot.sos.ca.gov) to monitor the mailing, returning, and processing status of your ballot in real time.
If you still cannot locate or receive your ballot, contact your county elections office to request a replacement. If it is too close to Election Day to receive a new mail-in ballot, you can visit a nearby polling place in person to cast your vote.
Errors and Damaged Ballots
If you have not yet submitted your mail-in ballot and made a mistake or damaged the paper, you can request a replacement. At an in-person voting center, simply notify an election worker of your error and request a new ballot.
For those voting at home, you can either request a replacement from the elections office or bring your spoiled ballot to a voting center to exchange it. However, please note that once a ballot has been officially submitted, it cannot be recalled or changed due to a change of heart. Always double-check your selections before final submission.
Missing Registration or Roster Issues
If you successfully registered to vote but your name cannot be found on the roster at your polling place, ask an election worker to double-check. If necessary, you have the right to request a voter guide provisional ballot. This also applies if you are required to show identification but do not have it with you at the time.
