Voting should be accessible to eligible voters with disabilities, but the practical options and request procedures vary by state and local jurisdiction. Before the 2026 midterms, voters can reduce uncertainty by checking polling-place accessibility, available voting equipment, assistance rules and absentee options with the election office that serves their address.
Check the accessibility of your polling place
Ask the local election office about accessible entrances, routes, parking, voting areas and any accommodations available at the location. A building’s public entrance is not necessarily the entrance used on Election Day, and conditions can change. If you need a specific accommodation, contact the office in advance and confirm what arrangements are available.
Ask about accessible voting equipment
Election jurisdictions may provide accessible ballot-marking devices or other equipment intended to support voters with disabilities. Ask how the equipment works, whether it offers audio or other access features, and what help is available if the device malfunctions. The U.S. Election Assistance Commission offers voter resources and information on election administration at EAC.gov/voters.
Understand the right to assistance
Federal law and state rules address assistance for voters who need help because of a disability or difficulty reading or marking a ballot. Who may assist, how assistance is requested and which restrictions apply depend on the circumstances and law. Election workers can explain procedures, but they cannot choose candidates for you. If you need assistance, tell an election official what barrier you are encountering and ask for the approved process.
Consider absentee or mail voting options
Some voters may find absentee voting more accessible, while others prefer in-person voting and equipment available at the polling place. States differ on eligibility, ballot delivery, signature requirements, deadlines and accessible ballot formats. Read the official state instructions and confirm whether the method you prefer is available to you. Our guide to mail-ballot rules and common problems explains why return instructions matter.
Make a plan before Election Day
- Confirm registration and the correct polling location.
- Contact the local election office about the accommodation you need.
- Ask whether accessible equipment will be available at your location.
- Check the rules for bringing a support person or requesting assistance.
- Review accessible absentee or early-voting options and their deadlines.
- Save the election office’s phone number in case you encounter a barrier.
Know where to ask for help
Start with your state or county election office through Vote.gov. The U.S. Department of Justice ADA resources provide general information about disability rights, while the EAC provides election-focused guidance. If a specific problem occurs, record the location, time and nature of the barrier and ask the responsible agency about its complaint process.
Bottom line
Accessible voting arrangements are most useful when voters know what is available and how to request it. Confirm details with the local election office rather than relying on assumptions about a particular building or voting method. This guide is general information; official election and accessibility rules control.
