By mail: Postmarked by Monday, May 4, and received by Thursday, May 7
In person: Monday, June 1, at noon
On Election Day: Tuesday, June 2, by 8 p.m.
Early in-person voting: Monday, May 4, through Monday, June 1 at noon
Deadline to apply for an absentee ballot: Monday, June 1, at noon
Election Day; deadline for absentee ballot to be received: Tuesday, June 2
Recent voting changes in Montana
Potential changes to voting procedures are facing legal challenges that may alter the state’s electoral landscape. These adjustments hinge on the outcomes of lawsuits targeting election laws enacted during the 2025 legislative session. Double check the Montana Secretary of State’s website for the latest information with respect to the pending legal challenges.
USPS Postmark Change
The USPS postmark change, which took place in December of 2025, could affect mail deadlines -- dates on mail now reflect when it’s processed by the postal service, not when it’s dropped off. To ensure your election-related mail is postmarked as “on time” don’t wait until the last minute. If you have waited until the deadline, take election-related mail inside the post office and request a manual postmark.
Absentee voting: Any registered voter can apply to automatically receive an absentee ballot in the mail; no reason is necessary.
Early voting: This can be done by visiting your county election administrator’s office to fill out an absentee ballot.
Voting at the polls: Most polls are open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., but some polling places with small numbers of registered voters may open as late as noon. Bring an acceptable form of ID that includes your name and current address.
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