How to get a postal vote for the general election and register to vote (2024)

The date for the UK’s next General Election has been set and it’s important to make sure you’re registered to vote so you can have your say.

If you wish to take part in the General Election in the future or other votes – such as referendums – you need to be part of the electoral register.

Following Rishi Sunak’s announcement that an election will take place on July 4, 2024, it’s an important time to check if you’re all set to vote.

Of course you can always turn up to vote at polling stations (provided you have valid ID), or send someone else to vote on your behalf by proxy – but there is also the option to vote by post.

Here’s how to do it.

How to get a postal vote for the General Election

In order to vote by post, you need to apply by 5pm on Wednesday, June 19.

You don’t need to give a reason for why you want to vote by post, unless you’re in Northern Ireland.

Some people choose to vote by post if they’re away from home on the day of the election, or if you’re abroad but still want to vote.

You can apply for a postal vote for either a specific election on a set date, a set period, or for a period of up to three years.

Simply visit the gov.uk website for details on how to apply for a postal vote either online or by post.

You must already be registered to vote in order to apply for a postal vote, so make sure to do that first!

Am I on the electoral roll?

If you want to check if you are registered on the electoral register you will need to contact your local Electoral Registration Office.

Alternatively, you can enter your postcode into The Electoral Commission’s website and this will help you find your local Electoral Services office.

The website should also give you an email you can use to contact the registration office, and they can let you know if you’re registered to vote or not.

Who can register to vote?

To register to get on the electoral roll, you must be aged 16 or over (or 14 or over in Scotland and Wales).

You must also be one of the following:

• A British citizen
• An Irish or EU citizen living in the UK
• A Commonwealth citizen who has permission to enter or stay in the UK, or who does not need permission
• A citizen of another country living in Scotland or Wales who has permission to enter or stay in the UK, or who does not need permission

Once you’re registered on the electoral register, you can begin voting in referendums and general elections when you’re 18 or over.

If you live in Scotland or Wales, you can vote in some elections when you’re 16 or over.

How to join the electoral register

If you are not sure of your status regarding the electoral register, you can contact your local electoral office.

If you already know that you’re not registered, the process of doing so is quite straightforward.

The gov.uk website has an application form you can fill out – you will need your National Insurance number and other basic information like your name and address.

When is the registration deadline for General Election 2024?

In England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, the deadline to register to vote is midnight on June 18.

Do I have to be on the electoral register?

If you’re asked to register and do not, you could be fined.

You will not be fined if you have a valid reason for not registering, for example a long stay in hospital, or you have severe learning difficulties.

Being on the electoral register has benefits besides allowing you to have your voice heard in elections.

Your Electoral Roll status may make it easier to:

• Get a passport
• Pass employer and landlord checks
• Open credit accounts, such as credit cards and mortgages
• Pass checks for insurance or utilities

Get in touch with our news team by emailing us at webnews@metro.co.uk.

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