By SNN Newsroom | October 14, 2026
Iowa voters may begin casting absentee ballots in person at county auditors’ offices Wednesday, October 14, as the state enters the final weeks before the November 3 general election.
The Iowa Secretary of State says October 14 is also the first day county auditors may send requested absentee ballots through the mail. Voters seeking a mailed ballot must ensure their written application reaches the county auditor by 5 p.m. Monday, October 19. That is a receipt deadline, not merely a postmark deadline.
The state advises voters to check their registration, find their county auditor’s office and make a plan for returning ballots on time. Hours and available locations can vary by county; voters should verify local arrangements directly with their county election office.
Early voting and absentee voting are lawful ballot-access options. The announcement is procedural information, not a report of election results or voting irregularities.
Primary source: Iowa Secretary of State voter information and dates.
