Running out of time to register to vote
Need to register to vote? Recently moved? Not sure if your voter identification is still valid?
Act fast if you want to vote in the Nov. 2 election.
Today is the last day voter registration applications can be postmarked or delivered to county clerks' offices.
There is a three-week grace period after that, but places to register in time for the November election become much more limited.
Those wanting to have a say on a ballot that ranges from U.S. Senate and governor to local judgeships can check with their local election departments to be sure they are officially registered.
The Illinois State Board of Elections allows voters to check their registration status via the Internet at www.elections.state.il.us, or those interested can call their county election department.
If you absolutely can't register in time, grace period registration runs through Oct. 26, according to Cook County Clerk David Orr.
Under these provisions, a nonregistered voter may go to designated sites, including courthouses or main election departments, to register.
Generally, voters remain on the rolls for about eight years if they don't cast a ballot. After that point, or if they move, they should register again. Registration should remain valid indefinitely for regular voters who stay at the same address and keep the same name.
Voting laws have been relaxed over the last several years, making it easier to vote and vote early.
A new Illinois law in place since February allows any registered voter to vote by absentee ballot. Absentee ballots can be applied for through local election offices up to five days before the election.
Meanwhile, early voting will begin Oct. 12 and last until Oct. 28. Registered voters are allowed to vote in person at dozens of locations during that period, often at government centers.
<p class="factboxheadblack">Key election dates</p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 5:</b> Last day to register to vote</p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 6:</b> First day of grace period registration and voting </p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 12:</b> First day of early voting</p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 26:</b> Last day of grace period registration </p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 28:</b> Early voting ends; last day to request a mail-in absentee ballot</p>
<p class="News"><b>Oct. 29:</b> Absentee voting starts</p>
<p class="News"><b>Nov. 1:</b> Absentee voting ends </p>
<p class="News"><b>Nov. 2:</b> Election Day</p>
<p class="News"><i>Source: State Board of Elections, county clerks offices</i></p>