Helping Voters with Disabilities

Yes! Individuals with disabilities have the legal right to voting assistance. Voters with disabilities are permitted to have someone of their choice assist them with the voting process or casting their vote. However, if they do not have someone with them, they may request assistance from a poll worker.

Poll workers are legally permitted to assist voters with disabilities in casting their vote in a variety of ways, including (but not limited to) reading a ballot to the voter, marking their indicated choice(s), and assisting a voter with an accessible voting device.

Tip: When assisting a voter, be sure to answer questions in a manner that does not influence the voter’s opinion. You may not tell them how to vote.

Use “people first” language, speak directly to the voter, and be patient and respectful. Do not assume that a voter needs assistance. If they indicate they need assistance, be sure not to express any judgment.

Tip: Try making a general announcement every so often when new groups of voters arrive that you are available for assistance.

Poll workers can help in many ways. Some common examples include ensuring posted signs are simple, easy to read, and in multiple spots inside and around the polling place; ensuring that polling centers and drop boxes are free from physical hazards or barriers; and ensuring that accessible modifications (i.e. voting machines) are available and functional.