Voting A-Z

What to Know about Voting in 2026

Whether it is wildlife conservation, the economy, or other issues affecting our communities, everyone should be able to speak up on issues they care about. Voting is one of the best ways to do that!

We can help you get ready to vote with the tools below, including double-checking your voting information or helping you to register to vote for the first time. You can also preview your ballot, find your polling location, and more.

How Do I Get Ready to Vote?

We have compiled tools from reliable voter organizations to help you vote this year:

• Double-check your voting status or register to vote. States regularly clean the voter files to keep them updated. Make sure your voting registration is still active and correct!
• Never voted before? You can register to vote today!
• Review the voting methods that are available in your area. You can peek at a state by state overview at vote411. Closer to the elections, you may want to check out their Plan Your Vote feature for in-depth information.
• Research who and what is on your ballot. Elected officials make decisions every day that impact our lives. Take the time to research the candidates and issues on your ballot. Your vote will help decide who guides us in addressing the conservation, economic, and environmental challenges that your community faces. You can preview your ballot at ballotpedia.org.
• Vote Early, where available. Do you know exactly where you will be or what you will be doing on Election Day? Don't get caught off guard! Early voting allows more flexibility for voters. It can help alleviate the stress of trying to fit it in between appointments on one particular day or waiting in long lines.
  • If you are planning to do in-person early voting, find out when and where you can vote in your community. Early voting locations may differ from your normal polling location. Be sure you bring the correct id!
  • If you are voting by mail, please fill out the ballot correctly and return it to the nearest dropbox before the deadline. If there are no dropboxes available in your area, then mail your ballot two (2) weeks before the election to make sure your vote is counted. USPS is not guaranteeing on-time delivery so return your ballot asap.
• Waiting to vote on Election Day? Double-check your polling location on your state’s portal or by visiting Vote411. Be sure you have the correct documentation. Voting laws differ across the country but here are a few basic tips to keep in mind. Contact the Election Protection Hotline if you encounter any problems voting for guidance and issue tracking.
• Have additional questions? Rock the Vote may be able to help in their FAQ section. Are you away at college? The League of Women Voters answers FAQs from college students.