Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3, and for service members, veterans, and military families, a little planning goes a long way. Frequent moves, deployments, and time overseas can complicate registration and ballot delivery, and deadlines vary by state.

Work through this checklist now, while there’s still time to fix anything that comes up.

The Checklist

1. Check your voter registration. Confirm that your name, address, and party information are current, especially if you’ve moved, changed your name, or returned from a deployment or overseas assignment. Your state or local election office can confirm your status.

2. Know your state’s deadlines. Registration, absentee ballot request, and ballot return deadlines differ from state to state, and many fall well before Election Day. Look them up now and put them on your calendar.

3. Decide how you’ll vote. Your options may include voting in person on Election Day, voting early in person, or voting by mail. Availability depends on your state, so choose the method that fits your schedule and location.

4. Request your absentee ballot if you need one. Active-duty service members, their families, and U.S. citizens living overseas can register and request an absentee ballot using the Federal Post Card Application (FPCA), available through the Federal Voting Assistance Program at FVAP.gov. Request yours as early as possible.

5. Check your ID requirements. Voter ID rules vary by state. Find out what you need to bring, and confirm that your ID is current and acceptable. In some states, a military or veteran ID may qualify.

6. Find your polling place and hours. If you’re voting in person, confirm your location and when it’s open. Polling places can change between elections.

7. Track your ballot and have a backup plan. If you voted by mail, check your ballot’s status with your local election office. If your ballot hasn’t arrived and time is short, FVAP.gov explains how to use the Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot as a backup.

8. Make a plan, and bring someone along. Decide when and how you’ll vote, then ask a fellow veteran, spouse, or friend to do the same. Voting is easier and more fun with company.

Where to Get Official Help

• FVAP.gov for military and overseas voters, including the FPCA and the write-in ballot
• Vote.gov for registration information and links to your state’s election office
• Your state or local election office for deadlines, ID rules, and polling places

Veterans have always understood that service takes preparation. This Election Day, take the same approach to casting your ballot, and encourage the veterans and military families around you to do the same.