Know Your Rights

The right to vote is protected by multiple constitutional amendments. The 15th Amendment (1870) prohibits denying the vote based on race, color, or previous condition of servitude. The 19th Amendment (1920) guarantees women the right to vote. The 24th Amendment (1964) prohibits poll taxes. The 26th Amendment (1971) lowers the voting age to 18. These amendments, together with the Voting Rights Act of 1965, form the legal foundation of voting rights in America.

If you need help reading or marking your ballot due to blindness, disability, or inability to read or write, you have the right to receive assistance from a person of your choice (with some exceptions — the person cannot be your employer or union representative). Many polling places also offer language assistance for voters with limited English proficiency, as required by the Voting Rights Act in covered jurisdictions.

Under the Help America Vote Act (HAVA) of 2002, if your eligibility is questioned at the polls — for example, if your name does not appear on the voter rolls — you have the right to cast a provisional ballot. Your ballot will be set aside and counted after election officials verify your eligibility. You should receive information on how to check whether your provisional ballot was counted.

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires that polling places be physically accessible to voters with disabilities. This includes accessible entrances, voting machines that accommodate various disabilities, and curbside voting options. If your polling place is not accessible, contact your local election office — they are required to provide an alternative accessible location or accommodation.

Federal law prohibits voter intimidation in any form. No one can threaten you, coerce you, or attempt to prevent you from voting. This includes intimidation by election officials, poll watchers, or other voters. If you feel intimidated at the polls, report it immediately to election officials and contact the Election Protection Hotline at 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683).

Most states have laws requiring employers to give employees time off to vote, though the specifics vary significantly. Some states require paid time off, others require unpaid time, and some only require time off if the employee doesn't have sufficient time outside working hours. Check your state's specific laws, as requirements for advance notice and amount of time provided differ. Federal employees are entitled to time off to vote without charge to leave.