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Apply for a postal vote

Voting by post allows you to take part in local and parliamentary elections without attending a polling station.

Voting by post

If you are registered to vote, but unable to get to the polling station on polling day, you can apply to vote by post. 

Please apply no later than 11 working days before an election.

To apply for a postal vote, you will need: 

  • your date of birth
  • your National Insurance Number
Apply for a postal vote

What happens next

Once you have applied, a ballot paper will be sent to you in advance of the election. This will usually be 8 working days before polling day. If you are away during this time, you may wish to consider appointing a proxy to vote on your behalf instead.

Other ways to apply

You can also download, print and fill in a paper application form from the Electoral Commission website.

Once completed, send the form to:

Electoral Services
Torbay Council
Town Hall
Torquay
TQ1 3DR

We must receive your form at least 11 working days before an election.

If you live abroad, we can send your postal vote to you. However, you must ensure there is enough time for you to receive your postal voting pack and send it back to us. If you are unsure, you may wish to appoint a proxy, who can vote on your behalf.

How to cancel a postal vote

To cancel your postal vote, contact us by:

Include your full name and address.

If you cancel your postal vote, you must bring an accepted form of photo ID to vote at a polling station.