Post Marking Voting Materials

Be aware that postmark requirements can cause problems for overseas voters, who may be disenfranchised if they fail to follow their state's guidelines when submitting FPCAs, voted ballots or FWABs.   Most states require that the ballot be either received or postmarked by election day, November 4, 2008.  Voters have a responsibility to check the Voting Assistance Guide (VAG) for state-by-state deadlines and regulations to make sure they submit voting materials well before the deadline, but you should also check state requirements before accepting election-related materials for transmission via diplomatic pouch.   

Normally, items sent through the diplomatic pouch are postmarked when they enter the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) system at the Dulles pouch facility.  However, it can take several weeks for diplomatic pouches to reach Virginia.   We are therefore asking all Consular Sections to place a date stamp and post's seal (wet seal) on all voting materials sent through diplomatic pouch.  We have sent a message to state voting officials asking them to recognize post's seal and date stamp as evidence that the ballot was mailed from overseas on the date stamped on the envelope.

 We understand that ballots sent through APO/FPO facilities will be postmarked overseas by the mailroom.  Please confirm locally. 

Please encourage last-minute voters to use alternate mail methods such as express courier or electronic transmission if there is not adequate time for pouch mail or APO/FPO to reach the U.S.  We understand that FedEx has offered free shipping for voting materials, and we are waiting for details on this generous offer.  We have written to other express courier companies, and will advise posts if those companies plan to offer special rates or services. 

Note that some states require ballots to be sent by mail, and will not accept ballots delivered by express courier.  Voters must check the VAG.  Also, remind voters that FedEx and DHL cannot deliver to post office (P.O. Box) addresses.  Voters should contact their local election officials to obtain the correct street address.  Ballots may be rejected if sent to the proper office but with an incorrect address. 

Please send any questions or concerns to votinginfo@state.gov.