NJ's 2023 election FAQ: Voter registration, ballot deadlines, vote-by-mail and more
For New Jersey residents who intend to participate in the civic process and vote this fall, there are a few key dates to be aware of, and some options for just how they want to cast their ballots.
New Jersey has full legislative elections this year, meaning all 120 seats in the state Senate and Assembly are on the ballot — but those won’t be the only races happening.
Throughout the state, there are also county and local government elections as well as school board races.
What is the voter registration deadline?
Potential voters must register by Oct. 17 to be able to cast a ballot this fall.
Can I vote by mail this year?
There is an application for a vote-by-mail ballot that any registered voter can fill out. The form asks voters if they want the application to stand for all future elections or just one time.
What is the deadline to apply for a vote-by-mail ballot?
The deadline to apply is Oct. 31 by mail or Nov. 6 at 3 p.m. in person.
When are vote-by-mail ballots being mailed?
The state is expected to start sending ballots out on Sept. 23.
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How do I return a vote-by-mail ballot?
There are three options for returning ballots:
They can be mailed back through the post office. It must be postmarked on or before 8 p.m. Nov. 7 and be received by the county’s Board of Elections on or before Nov. 13.
They can also be dropped into the county’s secure ballot drop boxes by 8 p.m. on Nov. 7.
They can be delivered in person directly to the county’s Board of Elections Office by 8 p.m. on Nov. 7.
Will there be early in-person voting this year?
There will be early voting from Oct. 28 to Nov. 5 at designated locations in each county. Hours will be from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday to Saturday and from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
When is Election Day?
Election Day is Nov. 7. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
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Is New Jersey looking for poll workers?
The state is now hiring poll workers. The Division of Elections is hiring residents to work at the polls at a rate of $21.43 per hour during in-person early voting days and $300 total on Election Day.
Those interested can submit an application through Pollworker.NJ.Gov.
Qualifications include being a New Jersey resident and at least 16 years old. Those over 18 must be registered to vote. Candidates in this election do not qualify.
Katie Sobko covers the New Jersey Statehouse. Email: sobko@northjersey.com
This article originally appeared on NorthJersey.com: NJ 2023 election: Registration, voting, ballot info and more
