5 Things to Keep In Mind When You Are Ready to Vote: 2026 Election Edition

Voting is one way we help shape the communities we call home. This November, Californians will choose leaders at the federal, state, and local levels and weigh in on statewide, regional, and local ballot measures that will affect how our communities function and how public resources are invested.

At United Way Bay Area, we believe that everyone who can vote should vote. That starts with ensuring our communities have the information needed to make their own decisions and participate confidently. Here are a few resources to help you make your plan.

1. Start With Your Registration – and Your Ballot

   Before you review your ballot, take a moment to check your voter registration status and ensure your information is up to date. You can also use California’s My Voter Status tool to find your polling place and other election information.

   Then, take some time to understand the choices in front of you.

   Our 2026 Bay Area Voter Guide can help you explore where United Way Bay Area stands on state, regional, and local ballot measures and why, along with questions to consider as you make your decisions.

   You can also mark your choices as you go and create a personalized ballot cheat sheet to download, print, and take with you when you vote.

   For official information on statewide candidates and ballot measures, visit the California Secretary of State’s 2026 General Election page.

2. Know the Important Dates for California Voters

   California’s General Election is on Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Here are a few important dates to keep in mind:

   • October 5: County election officials begin mailing vote-by-mail ballots. Early voting also begins.
   • October 6: Secure ballot drop-off locations are open by this date.
   • October 19: Last day to register to vote online or by mail. If you miss the deadline, California offers conditional voter registration through Election Day at county elections offices and eligible voting locations.
   • October 24: Vote centers begin opening for early in-person voting in Voter’s Choice Act counties.
   • October 31: In-person early voting locations are available throughout California.
   • November 3: Election Day. Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Ballots returned in person or to a drop box must be received by 8 p.m. Vote-by-mail ballots returned through the mail must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by your county elections office by November 10.

   You can find the complete calendar on the California Secretary of State’s Key Dates and Deadlines page.

   Voting locations, early-voting options, and hours can vary by county, so check with your local elections office when making your plan.

3. Know Where to Find Official Election Information

   Your county elections office is your best source for local information, including what’s on your ballot, voting and drop-box locations, early-voting options and other election services.

   UWBA serves eight Bay Area counties. Find official election information for yours:

   • Alameda County Registrar of Voters
   • Contra Costa County Elections
   • Marin County Elections
   • Napa County Elections
   • San Francisco Department of Elections
   • San Mateo County Elections
   • Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters
   • Solano County Registrar of Voters

   You can also visit the California Secretary of State’s Elections and Voter Information page to check your registration, learn about voting by mail, track your ballot, and find other statewide voting resources.

4. Know Your Rights When You Vote

   Every eligible voter has the right to cast their ballot free from intimidation.

   Knowing your rights before you vote can help you feel prepared. For example, if the polls close while you are still in line, you have the right to remain in line and vote. Voters can also request a provisional ballot if their name does not appear on the voter list, and voters with disabilities have the right to accessible voting and certain forms of assistance.

   The ACLU’s Voting Rights guide provides more information about your rights at the polls, accessibility, and steps to take if you encounter problems or intimidation. Nonpartisan assistance is also available through the Election Protection Hotline at 1-866-OUR-VOTE (1-866-687-8683).

5. Know Your Rights When You Vote

   Some voters may be concerned about the presence of ICE, National Guard members, or other federal agents in their communities or near voting locations. Regardless of who is present, voter intimidation is illegal. The ACLU’s Federal Agents at the Polls guide explains your rights and what you can do if you believe someone is interfering with your ability to vote.*

   If you would rather not vote in person, California mails a vote-by-mail ballot to every active registered voter. You can return your completed ballot by mail, at an official ballot drop box, or in person at a voting location or at a county elections office.

   If you return your ballot by mail, the California Secretary of State recommends mailing it at least seven days before Election Day. Mailed ballots must be postmarked on or before November 3 to be counted. Learn more from the California Secretary of State’s Vote by Mail resources.

Now Make Your Plan

However you choose to vote, a little preparation can help you feel informed and ready. Check your registration, review what’s on your ballot, know your voting options, and use reliable sources when you have questions.

When you’re ready to dig into the issues, explore United Way Bay Area’s 2026 Bay Area Voter Guide to see where we stand, consider the questions that can guide your decisions, and create your personalized ballot cheat sheet for Election Day.

*If you, or someone you know, needs immigration assistance, visit You Are Not Alone for additional resources.