Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson celebrated the start of National Voter Registration Month today, encouraging eligible Michigan citizens to register in September.
“Our democracy is at its best when everyone has a seat at the table,” said Secretary Benson. “Michiganders now have more options than ever before to simply and safely register and cast their ballots. National Voter Registration Month is the perfect time to take the first step in exercising your constitutional right by registering to vote and learning more about how to participate in our elections.”
The National Association of Secretaries of State (NASS) established September as National Voter Registration Month in 2002 as a nonpartisan means of encouraging voter participation and increasing awareness about state requirements. September 28 is National Voter Registration Day.
In Michigan, residents can register to vote in person up to 8 p.m. on Election Day at their city or township clerk’s office. Residents can also register online at Michigan.gov/Vote or by mail at least 15 days prior to an election. In the 14 days leading up to an election and on Election Day, voters must register in person to vote in the election.
To be eligible to register to vote you must be:
- A Michigan resident (at the time you register) and a resident of your city or township for at least 30 days (when you vote)
- A United States citizen
- At least 18 years of age (when you vote)
- Not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison
Residents must provide proof of eligibility and residency to register if registering in the 14 days prior to an election, including Election Day. Documents submitted as proof of residency must include the voter’s name and current address. Digital copies of documents are accepted. Such documents can include:
- Michigan driver’s license or state ID
- Current utility bill
- Bank statement
- Paycheck or government check
- Other government document
Local election officials as well as the Michigan Department of State are the most trusted sources for election information. Residents can find registration information, including the location of their clerk’s office and steps to complete registration, at the Michigan Voter Information Center at Michigan.gov/Vote. To report incorrect election information, please contact misinformation@michgan.gov.
In addition, canivote.org is a nonpartisan tool created by NASS in conjunction with state election officials to help eligible voters learn how and where to go vote.
