Vote By Mail information to be distributed to County voters

Winnebago County Clerk Lori Gummow informs Winnebago County residents that per Illinois Election Code (10 ILCS 5/19-2) election offices across the state are now mandated to send all registered voters a Vote By Mail (VBM) application. Beginning this week, registered Winnebago County voters residing outside of City of Rockford limits should receive an application in the mail that allows them the option to vote by mail.

Either voters may elect to vote by mail for a single election OR residents can apply for permanent VBM status and automatically receive a ballot in all subsequent elections. A vote remains in a permanent VBM status until the voter requests to be removed or the Clerk’s Office receives confirmation that the voter has registered to vote in another county. Voters may still register for VBM status for a single election; however, they must submit a new application each election.

“Vote By Mail is a safe and secure way for voters to complete their ballots in the privacy of their own homes,” said Clerk Lori Gummow. “As always, voters can still decide to vote either in-person early or on Election Day. So residents have plenty of options to exercise their right to vote.”

Applications must be completed, signed and returned to the County Clerk’s Election Department by October 31, 2024. VBM applications can be returned via mail (404 Elm St. Rm. 101, Rockford, 61101), email (elections@clerk.wincoil.gov), online or in-person at the Winnebago County Administration Building.

The VBM application [PDF] [online link] and more election information can be found on the Winnebago County Clerk’s website.