Provisional ballots are special ballots used in U.S. elections when there is a question about a voter's eligibility at the time they attempt to vote. Instead of being turned away, the voter is allowed to cast a provisional ballot, which is set aside separately from regular ballots until election officials can verify the voter's eligibility
. Key points about provisional ballots include:
- They are issued when a voter's registration or qualifications are in question, such as if the voter's name is not on the pollbook, if the voter has already voted according to records, or if the voter cannot provide required identification
- The provisional ballot is sealed in a special envelope and kept separate from regular ballots.
- After Election Day, election officials review each provisional ballot to confirm the voter's eligibility. If confirmed, the ballot is counted; if not, it is discarded and not counted
- Reasons for issuing provisional ballots vary but commonly include registration issues, voting at the wrong precinct, or failure to show acceptable ID
- Laws require that no eligible voter be denied the chance to vote; provisional ballots ensure voting rights are protected even when there are administrative or eligibility questions
- Voters can check the status of their provisional ballot after the election to see if it was counted
In summary, provisional ballots serve as a safeguard to allow voters to cast a ballot when their eligibility is uncertain, with the final decision on counting the ballot made after verification by election officials.
