Absentee ballots going out in Michigan: What to know

September 25, 2026

Michigan voters can now cast their ballots for the November 3rd general election through the state's absentee voting system, which was expanded in 2018 to allow all residents to vote by mail without providing justification. Residents can request absentee ballots online or at local clerk offices until the Friday before Election Day, though officials recommend mailing ballots at least 15 days in advance to avoid delivery issues. Completed ballots must reach local clerks by 8 p.

Who is affected

All Michigan voters
Elderly residents
Service members
Local clerk offices
Michigan communities/municipalities

What action is being taken

Absentee ballots are currently available and voting is underway
Michigan voters can request absentee ballots online or at local clerk offices
Voters can mail in completed ballots or return them to drop boxes
Voters can track their absentee ballot application and ballot status online

Why it matters

This matters because Michigan's expanded absentee voting system provides greater accessibility and convenience for all voters, removing previous restrictions that limited mail-in voting to specific groups. The changes reflect significant democratic reforms approved by voters that make participating in elections easier and more flexible, while also introducing early in-person voting options to accommodate different voter preferences and schedules.

What's next

Early in-person voting will start October 24th in most places (or earlier in some areas)
Voters should mail absentee ballots at least 15 days before the election to ensure timely delivery
All absentee ballots must reach local clerks by 8 p.m. on Election Day (November 3rd)

Read full article from source: bridgedetroit.com