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Skip Navigation LinksSimcoe County > Ontario Works > How to Vote in the Federal Election

How to Vote in the Federal Election

​October 15, 2019

The Federal Election is quickly approaching on October 21, 2019, with some advance polls already open. Being informed is the first step in ensuring that you make an electoral decision that you feel is best for your needs and the needs of your family. Whether this is your first time voting or you just need a quick refresher, let’s look at everything you need to know in our latest blog. 
 

Am I Registered?

Most Canadians who are of legal voting age are automatically registered. If you are registered, you should have received a voter information card in the mail. It tells you where and when you can vote. If the name and address on your card are correct and you meet the indicated eligibility criteria, you’re ready to vote. Bring this card with you, along with accepted ID, to make the voting process easier when going to vote.

If you didn’t get your voter information card or if the information on it is wrong, your voter information may not be up to date. Use the Online Voter Registration Service, contact your local Elections Canada office or call 1-800-463-6868 to check and update your information

If you find that you are not registered, you can use the Online Voter Registration Service to register before Tuesday, October 15th at 6 PM. You can register at any Elections Canada office across Canada before Tuesday, October 15, 2019, and at your polling station on advance polling days or election day, Monday, October 21, 2019. 

If you are already registered but your address has changed, you can use the same Online Voter Registration Service to update your information. You can also go to any Elections Canada office in person. If you split your time between more than one address, such as a home and cottage, use the address that you consider to be your primary residence.

How Do I Vote?

Elections Canada offers many ways for you to vote.
  • On election day at your assigned polling station on Monday, October 21, 2019
  • On advanced voting days at your assigned polling station (check dates and times on elections.ca) 
  • At any Elections Canada Office before Tuesday, October 15, 2019, at 6 PM
  • Vote online before Tuesday, October 15th, 2019 at 6 PM 
 

What ID Do I Need to Bring?

To vote in the federal election you have to prove your identity and address. There are three different ways to do this:

Show one of these pieces of ID
  • Driver’s Licence 
  • Any other card issued by a Canadian government with your name, photo and current address
Option 2: Show two pieces of ID
  • Both must have your name and at least one must have your current address.
  • See the list of accepted ID here to prove your identity and address under Option 2
Option 3: If you don’t have ID
  • You can still vote if you declare your identity and address in writing and have someone who knows you and who is assigned to your polling station vouch for you.
  • The voucher must be able to prove their identity and address. A person can vouch for only one person (except in long-term care institutions).
 

Can I Leave Work to Vote?

The Canada Elections Act, ss.132-134 sets out the rules for employers regarding an election. Under this Act, voters are entitled to three consecutive hours free from work during voting hours to cast their ballots at their assigned polling station. 

For more detailed information on the topics discussed in this blog, you can visit elections.ca or Canada Elections Act, ss. 132-134.