Pennsylvania Department of State✓

Ever wonder how election offices ensure that only one ballot is counted for each voter? Learn more about the security features used to track mail ballots.

Mail ballot voters, make sure you: ✅ Seal your ballot inside both provided envelopes; ✅ Sign and write the current date on the outer return envelope; ✅ Return your ballot to a designated ballot return location BEFORE 8 p.m. on Election Day. Learn more at

As part of his “Midterm Road Trip” across Pennsylvania, @CNN correspondent @OmarJimenez stopped by our office to interview Secretary Schmidt about the coming election.

The Department of State wants to ensure that every registered voter can make their voice heard and cast their ballot safely and securely. Questions about voting? Call our voter hotline, 1-877-868-3772, or visit

Our friends at @AARPPA asked Secretary Schmidt to help answer some common questions about elections in Pennsylvania. 📽️ Watch:

Your vote is protected by law. If you encounter intimidation or harassment while voting, report it immediately: Call 1-877-VOTESPA or visit Know your rights:

Secretary Al Schmidt held a virtual media update on preparations for the Nov. 3 general election. This was the eighth and final in a series of weekly virtual updates to be held leading up to the election.

The Department of State is committed to ensuring that Pennsylvania’s elections remain free, fair, safe, and secure. Learn about your rights at the polls:

Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt holds a virtual media update on preparations for the Nov. 3 general election. This will be the eighth in a series of weekly virtual updates to be held leading up to the election.

With Election Day a week away, Secretary Schmidt sat down with @TomLehmanWGAL to discuss election preparation and what voters should expect.

TODAY, Oct. 27, is the deadline to apply for a mail ballot for the Nov. 3 election: Reminder: Voters who apply for a mail ballot in person at their county elections office can complete their ballot and return it all in one visit. Applications for a mail ballot must be received by 5 p.m. today. Learn more:

Here's what you need to know if you're plannng to vote by mail in Pennsylvania.

If you'd like to vote by mail, you MUST apply by 5 p.m. on Oct. 27. Learn more:

The Department of State wants to ensure that every registered voter can make their voice heard and cast their ballot safely and securely. Questions about voting? Call our voter hotline, 1-877-868-3772, or visit

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Do you know where to vote? Find your polling place:

If you applied for a mail ballot, you can track the status of your mail ballot’s progress online at Reminder: Mail ballots must be RECEIVED by your county elections office by 8 p.m. Election Day. A postmark is not sufficient.

Question: I've read about issues where mail ballots are rejected for minor errors. Has anything been done to fix that problem? Secretary Schmidt answers 👇

Did you know? More than half of all Pennsylvania mail ballots have already been returned, and the mail ballot return rate is higher this year than it was four years ago. Make sure you return your ballot as soon as it's ready so your voice can be heard! You can return it by USPS or by delivering it in-person at a county designated location:

Question: If I have a disability or need extra assistance, should I focus on getting a ride to my polling place or apply for a mail ballot? Secretary Schmidt answers 👇