Uniform Instructions for Absentee Voters

Uniform Instructions for Absentee Voters
State of Wisconsin

Section 6.869 Wis. Stats. requires the development of uniform instruction for absentee voters, including means for correcting errors in marking an absentee ballot and obtaining a replacement ballot:

Uniform Instructions for Absentee Voters

1. Read and follow the instructions for completing the ballot carefully. Mistakes may spoil your ballot.
2. Complete the ballot in the presence of one (1) witness. The witness cannot be a candidate at the election and must be an adult U.S. citizen. The witness must verify that the individual completed the absentee ballot, but should not view the voter’s choices.
3. Refold the ballot and place inside the certificate envelope.
4. Complete the elector information section on the certificate envelope, and sign the certificate. One witness must sign the certificate and provide his/her address.
   • If the municipal clerk has already completed the elector information, the elector must still sign the certificate, and one witness must sign the certificate and provide his/her address.
5. Seal the certificate envelope.
6. If you make an error while marking your ballot, spoil your ballot, or require a replacement ballot, contact your municipal clerk immediately. You must return your original ballot and certificate envelope before a replacement ballot will be issued. No replacement ballots are mailed after the 5th day preceding Election Day. If you require a replacement ballot after the 5th day preceding Election Day, you must return the original ballot and certificate envelope in person to the municipal clerk. You will be required to vote your replacement absentee ballot in the municipal clerk’s office.
7. Return the ballot (in the certificate envelope) in time for distribution to the polling place. If you have questions about the deadline for returning your ballot, contact the municipal clerk. No late ballots are accepted.

(Rev. 2/2007, Government Accountability Board)