Your Guide to Illinois' 2026 General Elections
2026 Election Important Dates
Date | Description |
February 5 | Early voting begins, vote by mail ballots mailed |
February 17 | Last day for regular voter registration |
February 18 | Grace period voter registration and voting begins |
March 1 | Last day for online voter registration |
March 12 | Last day to mail vote by mail ballots for the general primary election |
March 16 | Last day for early voting |
March 17 | Primary Election Day |
Sept 24
| Early voting begins, vote by mail ballots mailed |
Oct 6 | Last day for regular voter registration |
Oct 7 | Grace period registration and voting begins |
Oct 18 | Last day for online voter registration |
Oct 29 | Last day for vote by mail application through mail |
Nov 2 | Last day for early voting and in-person vote by mail applications |
Nov 3 | General Election Day |
Voting FAQ
What is grace period registration?
Grace period registration is an extension of the regular registration deadline.
What is grace period voting?
If a voter who registers to vote or changes his or her address during this grace period wishes to vote at the election or primary occurring during this grace period, he or she must do so in-person at the same time that he/she registers.