National Voter Education Week took place October 6–10, highlighting the importance of taking the necessary steps to protect our democracy. Though the week has passed, we can take these lessons and use them as the building blocks that we practice each and every day.

While your vote takes only minutes, it has resounding effects on the structures and communities you live in, so it’s vital for our community to share nonpartisan, trustworthy information about voting. We’re here to support you! 

We’ve created this five-day guide so that you can take small, easy steps toward preparing for the vote:

On the first day, you can quickly make sure you’re registered, or update your registration if needed. Go to this website, input your state, and receive customized information on how to ensure that you’re properly registered. 

On day two, check to see what will be on your ballot and when. It can be difficult to figure out who is running, what candidates stand for, and when elections take place, so this next step is crucial. It can all be made easier by using this resource as well as WeVote, where you enter your home state and county and receive this helpful information. You can also access a sample ballot from each of these websites.

Sites like WeVote and VoteSmart let you search for a candidate and access unbiased information about their political background and experience, committees they’ve served on, and more. 

On day three, check on the voting rules related to your area. Accessing this platform is a great way to learn about the voting options within your state so you can be prepared. 

On day four,  prepare a plan for how you’ll vote. Deciding whether you’d like to vote early, whether you need to send in a mail-in ballot, and how to balance your choice to vote with your work schedule are all great examples of how to prepare to ensure your voice is heard.

For example, this website provides information about where and how to send in an absentee or mail-in ballot, if that is your preferred or required voting method based on your schedule.

On day five, share this guide with loved ones in your circle. Spreading knowledge about voting helps others stay informed and builds solidarity, strengthening our democracy together.

We’re happy to provide these guidelines and help you become your most knowledgeable self.