Drop-off timings depend on your location and the election date. Here are common patterns you’ll see, plus how to confirm for your area: What to expect

• Early availability: In many jurisdictions, ballot drop boxes and drop-off locations open a few weeks to a month before Election Day.
• Regular hours: Drop boxes are often accessible 24/7 or during site hours, with extended access on weekends.
• Election Day cut-off: Most places lock drop boxes at a fixed time on Election Day (commonly 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM). After that, ballots cannot be deposited in drop boxes.

How to find your exact drop-off options

• Check your local elections office website: look for “Ballot Drop Box Locations,” “Drop-off Locations,” or “Vote-by-Mail/Drop Box” sections.
• Use official state resources: search for your state’s secretary of state or elections department page for ballot return options.
• If available, use the voter portal: many jurisdictions let you see drop-box locations and hours by your precinct or address, and sometimes provide live status.

Tips to ensure your ballot counts

• Return before the deadline: don’t wait until the last minute to avoid closures or delays.
• Confirm your ballot is securely deposited: some drop boxes provide a receipt or confirmation via the voter portal.
• If in doubt, return at a voting location or mail well ahead of the deadline to ensure timely delivery.

If you tell me your city or county (and state), I can guide you to the exact drop-box locations and hours for this election.