As the May 20 primary election approaches, many Pennsylvanians will want to apply for a mail-in ballot. Here’s how to apply.

Secretary of the Commonwealth Al Schmidt reminded registered Pennsylvania voters that they have until May 13 to apply for their mail-in ballot for the May 20 primary election.

“Voting by mail has become a popular, safe, and secure option for Pennsylvanians to cast their ballots and make their voices heard,” Schmidt said. “Eligible Pennsylvanians who prefer to vote by mail should apply today to allow for as much time as possible to ensure their ballot is received on time.”

Secretary Schmist says when receiving their mail ballot, voters should:

• Read all instructions enclosed with the ballot.
• Fill out the ballot by following the instructions on how to mark selections.
• Seal the ballot in the inner secrecy envelope marked “official election ballot.”
• Seal the inner secrecy envelope in the outer return envelope.
• Sign and write the current date on the outer return envelope.

Pennsylvanians can also request their mail ballot, complete it, and return it in one visit to their county election office until close of business on May 13, however, voters are urged to check their county elections office’s hours and mail ballot availability before making the trip.

A voter’s county elections office must receive the completed ballots by 8 p.m. on May 20, Election Day. Mail ballots received after that time cannot be counted. Some counties provide drop boxes or other drop-off sites for mail ballots.

Voters who requested a mail ballot but did not receive it or misplaced it may vote by provisional ballot at their polling place.

“No matter how you choose to vote – by mail ballot or in person at the polls on Election Day – what matters is making your voice heard,” Schmidt said.

For more information, visit vote.pa.gov.