​​NH Voter Checklist: Be Prepared for Election Day

If you’re planning to vote in city elections coming up on November 4, and want to register on Election Day, make a plan now! 

• Track down your birth certificate or passport

• Find a utility bill, lease, or NH license showing your current address

• If you’ve had a name change, you’ll need documents that explain it (like a marriage certificate)

This year, walking into your local polling place unprepared may mean walking out without casting your ballot. You can take a photo of these documents with your phone as backup just in case you forget to bring your documents.*

The rules have changed, and they hit first-time voters hardest. If you’re new, young, or planning to register on Election Day, make sure you’ve got the paperwork lined up. Here’s a few things to remember:

• 1. Get your documents now

  Secure your birth certificate, passport, or naturalization papers—not just your driver's license.

  Why it matters: You’ll need them to register.

  Tips: If your name changed, get your marriage certificate, court order, or other proof.

• 2. Prove your address/domicile

  Bring a lease, utility bill, bank statement, or NH license showing current address.

  Why it matters: Registration requires proof of where you live.

  Tips: Don’t rely on PO boxes—your domicile must be a physical address.

• 3. For absentee voting

  Request your absentee ballot within 6 months of the election.

  Why it matters: You can vote absentee in NH for specific reasons. 

  Tips: Include a copy of valid photo ID. No ID = no ballot under SB 287.

• 4. Avoid errors you can’t fix

  Be meticulous—sign correctly, include all documents, follow instructions.

  Why it matters: NH doesn’t offer any official curing process for absentee ballot issues.

  Tips: Request early, check deadlines, confirm your request got accepted.

For voters in NH, the path to the ballot box looks different this year. New voting rules mean it’s more important than ever to plan ahead, know your rights, and be prepared before Election Day.

Voting is the foundation of our democracy, it’s how we make our voices heard and shape the future of our communities. The Forward Foundation is here to help ensure every eligible voter has the information they need to participate confidently and securely. Have questions about registering or voting? Email angela@forwardnh.org or connect with your local city clerk before the November 4, 2025 city elections to make sure you’re ready to vote.

*If you need one of these documents to register, you can request a free copy for voter registration purposes only. Learn more and request a document here.