Accessible Voting for Citizens with a Disability
Voters over 65 and voters with a disability may get help voting. You have several choices for how to vote.
Is there an accessible voting system at my polling place?
Every polling place in Pennsylvania must have at least one accessible voting system. Sometimes this is the general voting system used by all voters. It may be a separate system with features such as audio, tactile keys and other assistive technology.
How do I get assistance at the polling place?
If you need help voting due to a disability,
you may bring a person of your choice to assist you in the voting process. There are a few restrictions on who to bring, including that
you may not choose a person who is:
- A Judge of Elections
- Your Union Representative
- Your Employer
The first time you have someone help you vote, the election officials at your polling place will ask you to complete and sign a form called a
Declaration of Need of Assistance. After the first time, your registration record will note that you completed the form.
What if I have a permanent disability?
If you have a permanent disability, you can apply to be added to the permanent absentee voter list by submitting an absentee ballot application (PDF), including section C If your application is accepted, you will receive absentee ballots for the elections that take place during the rest of the year. You will also receive an annual absentee ballot application every year that you are on the list.
If your County Board of Elections says your polling place inaccessible, you can vote by alternative ballot.
Accessible Write-In Ballots
The Department of State is committed to increasing accessibility for voters with disabilities. Voters may request accessible write-in ballots for the June 2, 2020, Primary Election. These ballots will allow blind and low-vision voters to vote privately and independently. Learn more about accessible write-in ballots