THE WORD
- Online voter registration closes Oct. 18 at 11:59 p.m.
- Early voting at all 50 Chicago ward sites begins Oct. 19.
- Vote By Mail applications are due Oct. 29 by 5 p.m. Election Day is Nov. 3.
Chicago residents have several ways to register and cast a ballot in the 2026 midterm election. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Voters can register online through Oct. 18 using the Illinois State Board of Elections’ online registration system.
How to Register or Update Your Address
After online registration closes, eligible Chicago voters can register or update their address in person during the grace period. Grace-period registration began Oct. 7 at the Chicago Board of Elections office and designated registration locations. It will also be available at early-voting sites beginning Oct. 19 and at precinct polling places and Vote Centers on Election Day.
Bring two forms of identification when registering or updating your address in person. At least one form must show your current address. Review the Chicago Board of Elections’ ID information for details.
Not sure whether you’re registered? Use the Board’s Your Voter Information page to check your registration, view your sample ballot, find Early Voting sites and locate your Election Day polling place.
Early Voting
Early voting began Oct. 1 at the Chicago Board of Elections Downtown Voting Supersite, 137 S. State St., and at the Board’s office at 69 W. Washington St., 6th Floor. Early voting begins at sites in all 50 Chicago wards on Oct. 19. Chicago voters can find locations and details on the Board’s Early Voting page.
Vote By Mail
The deadline to apply for a Vote By Mail ballot is Oct. 29 at 5 p.m. Ballots returned by mail must be postmarked by Election Day, Nov. 3. Voters may also return their ballot at a secure drop box by Election Day. Visit the Board’s Vote By Mail page for application and return information.
Election Day
On Tuesday, Nov. 3, polling places are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you’re in line by 7 p.m., stay in line to cast your ballot. Use the Your Voter Information page to confirm your polling place.
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