How to fill in a Postal Vote Application Form and FAQ
If you are applying for a postal vote, then you do not need
anyone to support your application. These notes refer to the
numbered boxes on the form.
SECTION 1 - YOUR
ADDRESS
Please enter the address where you are currently registered to
vote.
If not already pre-printed
SECTION 2 - ABOUT YOU
NAME: Please write your surname and first
names (in full).
If not already
pre-printed
SECTION 3 HOW LONG DO YOU WANT A POSTAL
VOTE
You can apply for a postal vote for all future elections,
(until you notify us in writing that you wish to cancel it, or you
move house).
Or for a specific election date (for example, if you will be on
holiday on the day of the election); or you can apply for a fixed
period of time (for example, if you will be working away from home
for a few months).
SECTION 4 AT WHICH ELECTIONS DO YOU WANT A POSTAL
VOTE?
You must state the type of elections where you wish to vote by
post.
SECTION 5 ADDRESS FOR BALLOT PAPER
Please supply the address where you want the
postal ballot paper sent. This may be anywhere in the world.
Should you choose this option you must give a reason.
In order for your vote to be counted, a postal ballot paper must be
received by the Returning Officer, no later than the close of poll
on election day.
SECTION 6 YOUR DECLARATION
Each person has to include their date of birth and sign their
own form. You can be fined for making a false statement on this
form.
See following for answers to the most frequently asked
questions relating to postal votes.
Your questions answered.
Will I get confirmation that I have a postal
vote?
Normally yes - however if you have submitted your application
close to the date of an election, there may not be time to send you
confirmation. The next thing you should receive is your ballot
paper in the post.
Will
I get confirmation that my completed postal vote has been received
by the Returning Officer?
You will not automatically receive confirmation but you may
contact the Electoral Services to confirm receipt, however this can
only be confirmed once the postal vote has been opened and
processed.
What if it
is too late to post it back?
Postal ballot papers must be received by the Returning
Officer no later than the close of poll on election day if
they are to be counted. Any ballot papers received after this
deadline will NOT be counted. Ballot papers do not necessarily have
to be posted, they can be handed in at the Latton Bush Centre,
Civic Centre or at a polling station within your ward.
Do I have to pay the postage on my postal
vote?
No there is a pre-paid envelope for people who provide an
address in the UK. Overseas voters have to pay the return
postage.
Can I
use one application form for everyone in my
household?
No, each person must make a separate application to vote by
post.
If you live abroad and are on the electoral register, you can
still have a ballot paper sent to you by applying for a postal
vote.
When
will my postal vote be issued?
Postal votes are issued after the close of postal
applications which is 11 days before the election
date.
What happens if my postal vote papers get lost, delayed
or if I spoil my vote?
If this happens it may be possible to issue a replacement. You
will need to contact your Electoral Registration Office who will
inform you of the requirements and timescale involved. Tel No 01279
446042
Will my postal vote be confidential?
Yes, postal votes are returned in a sealed envelope along with
the signed Security Statement and are mixed with all the
ordinary ballot papers before counting begins.
Back to the top.