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Early voting begins 40 days before an election and continues until the day before Election Day. Before you vote, it is important to check hours and locations for early voting. By law, all early voting locations must be physically accessible
Absentee voting is also known as voting by mail. Anyone can vote using an absentee ballot for any reason. You have to request an application for absentee ballot by mail, in person, or online from your local election authority. You have to fill out the application and return it to the local election authority in person or by mail. You can request an absentee ballot 90 days before the election up until one day before the election if you do it in person, or five days before the election if you do it by mail or online.
Important Considerations for Voting
Healthcare Facility Voting
If you're admitted to a hospital, nursing home, or rehab center within 14 days of an election, you can still vote using a special absentee ballot. A relative or registered voter from your precinct must deliver the application and ballot.
Illinois State Voting Provisions
Illinois law allows most individuals with disabilities to vote unless they are incarcerated. Guardianship does not automatically remove voting rights unless specified by court order.
Persons with Disabilities Voting Resources
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American Association of People with Disabilities (AAPD)
AAPD promotes political participation and equal access for people with disabilities. Their REV UP campaign helps increase voter turnout and awareness.
Phone: 800.840.8844
ARC
The ARC provides toolkits and advocacy resources to support voters with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Phone: 800.433.5255
Bazelon Center
This organization provides legal advocacy for people with mental disabilities, including voting rights and access to accommodations.
Phone: 202.467.5730
Illinois State Board of Elections
This office provides voter information and support for residents in the Chicago area.
Phone: 312.814.6440
Cook County Clerk - Vote by Mail
This page explains how voters in Cook County can request and submit a vote-by-mail ballot.
Phone: 312.603.0946
Disability Rights Education and Defense Fund (DREDF)
DREDF offers legal resources and training to protect the voting rights of people with disabilities.
Phone: 510.644.2555
Equip for Equality
Equip for Equality provides information on voting rights and accessibility for Illinois residents with disabilities.
Phone: 312.341.0022
Illinois State Board of Elections
Illinois voters can request a ballot by contacting the State Board of Elections.
Phone: 217.782.4141
National Disability Rights Network
NDRN supports Protection and Advocacy systems across the U.S. to ensure voting access for people with disabilities.
Phone: 202.408.9514
RespectAbility
RespectAbility offers guides and webinars to help people with disabilities engage in the voting process.
Phone: 202.517.6272
U.S. Election Assistance Commission (EAC)
EAC offers national guidance on voting systems, accessibility, and election security.
No phone number listed
USA.gov - Absentee Voting and Voting by Mail
This federal resource provides absentee voting information for all U.S. states.
Phone: 844.872.4681
Voter Assistance - Cook County
Voters who need help casting their ballot may receive assistance from a designated person or two election judges. An affidavit may be required.
Phone:312.603.5656
Voting and Guardianship Terms in Illinois
Voting Rights
The Illinois Constitution does not restrict voting based on disability. Only individuals convicted of a felony or currently in jail are prohibited from voting. (ILL. CONST. art. III, § 2)
Definition of Disabled Person
A disabled person is someone 18 or older who cannot fully manage their personal or financial affairs due to:
Mental deterioration or physical incapacity
Mental illness or developmental disability
Harmful behaviors like gambling, substance abuse, or idleness that risk their well-being or that of their family
(755 ILL. COMP. STAT. 5/11a-2)
Guardianship Guidelines
Limited guardianship removes only the powers listed in the court order. Guardianship must match the person’s actual mental, physical, and adaptive needs.
(755 ILL. COMP. STAT. 5/11a-14(a), 5/11a-3(b))
