The introvert’s guide to voting in Michigan in 2024

Ready to keep it low-key and still make a difference at the polls in 2024? Here’s how.

As we all know, voting is one of our most important rights as Americans. But let’s be honest—it can also be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re not a fan of crowds and small talk. If you want to make your voice heard this year without having to endure too much (or any, for that matter) social interaction on Election Day, you’ve come to the right place.

The best method

Thankfully, here in Michigan, there’s a way to vote without ever needing to leave the comfort of your home. It’s called absentee voting.

In 2018, Michigan voters passed a constitutional amendment that expanded voting rights in the state. Among those expanded rights was no-reason absentee voting, also known as voting by mail.

All registered Michigan voters have the right to vote by mail—you don’t have to provide a reason or prove that you’ll be out of town. Just wanting to vote by mail is reason enough.

Although many refer to absentee voting as “voting by mail,” one thing you should know is that although you’ll receive your ballot in the mail, you don’t need to mail your ballot back in.

By law in Michigan, every voting jurisdiction is also required to have drop boxes available for people to submit their absentee ballots in person. The great news about these drop boxes is that they are often simply on the street so you can drive up, drop your ballot in, and go about the rest of your day.

Here’s how to get your absentee ballot:

First, you’ll need to be sure you’re registered to vote. Head here to find out.

Next, you’ll register as an absentee voter.

To register as an absentee voter, apply online, by mail, or in person at your local county clerk. 

• Online applications can be submitted until 5 p.m. on the Friday prior to Election Day—that’s Nov. 1 for the general election—though voters registering online are strongly encouraged to apply at least 15 days prior to Election Day. You’ll need a valid driver’s license or Michigan ID to register online as an absentee voter. Your absentee ballot will be mailed to you. 
• In-person applications must be completed before 4 p.m. the day before Election Day for voters who are already registered. However, if you’re registering at a new address or for the first time, you can register and apply for an absentee ballot until 8 p.m. on Election Day. In-person applicants can receive, complete, and submit their absentee ballots immediately on-site or take their ballots home to complete and return later. 
• Mailed applications must be received by the county clerk by 5 p.m. the Friday before Election Day — Nov. 1 for the general election. Like online applications, voters are strongly encouraged to send back completed absentee applications at least 15 days before the election. Your absentee ballot will be mailed to you. 

After filling out your absentee ballot, place it in the provided secrecy sleeve and sign it in the specified spot. To return, either drop it off in person or mail it to the county clerk. 

Whichever way you choose to return it, your ballot must be received by the county clerk by 8 p.m. on Election Day. An exception: overseas and military ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and arrive at the county clerk within six days after Election Day.

You can track your ballot via the Michigan Voter Information Center website.

Be sure to check out: The do’s and don’ts of voting by mail in Michigan

Your second-best options

Let’s say you feel more comfortable filling in your ballot and handing it back immediately, confident in the knowledge that your vote has been submitted. Here’s two ways you can vote in-person, while still minimizing human interaction:

Early voting:

Early voting allows voters to vote ahead of time at a polling place, much like they would on Election Day. This differs from absentee voting in that voters physically show up to a polling site, enter a voting booth, and fill out their ballots in person—odds are, it’ll be much less crowded than on Election Day. 

Per the State of Michigan website, “The early voting period begins the second Saturday prior to Election Day and ends the Sunday before an election.” State law allows Michigan locations to offer up to 28 days of early voting access.

To find early voting locations and dates in Michigan, click here.

Election day:

If you’ve made it to Election Day without voting but still want to do it while minimizing interactions, your best bet is to submit an absentee ballot at your local clerk’s office.

You can register and vote on Election Day up until 8 p.m. Best of all, it’s likely your local clerk’s office will be far less busy than your local voting precinct.

Happy voting!