COMMON VOTING MISTAKES
Registration Errors
Many voters neglect to check their registration status before Election Day. It is crucial to ensure that registration is current & accurate to avoid being turned away at the polls. Go to vote411.org or michigan.gov/vote to verify.
Incorrect Polling Place
Voters sometimes go to the wrong polling location. Polling places can change, so verifying the correct site is essential. Go to vote411.org & enter your address.
Not Bringing Required Identification
Michigan requires voters to present a valid photo ID, or a signed affidavit if they do not have one. Failing to bring proper identification can lead to complications.
Valid forms of ID to check are:
MI driver’s license or state ID
Driver’s license issued from another state
Federal, State or Local government issued photo ID
US passport; Military photo ID
Photo ID from an educational institution
Tribal photo ID.
Failing to Fill Out Both Sides of the Ballot
Michigan has a two-sided ballot. A common mistake is for voters to fill out only the front side, not realizing there are more races, plus ballot issues on the back.
Split-ticket Voting in a Primary Election
Any voter, regardless of party affiliation, may cast a ballot in the MI August Primary Elections, however, a voter may only vote for candidates of one party for this election. If you don’t your ballot will be not be counted.
Marking the Ballot Improperly
Fully fill in the ovals on the ballot to mark your choices. Pay attention to the number of candidates you choose for each office. Choose too many & your vote for that office will be invalidated.
Misunderstanding Absentee Ballot Procedures
Some voters may not be aware of the deadlines & requirements for absentee ballots, leading to missed opportunities to vote. Look up- michigan.gov: Absentee voting, for complete information.
Leaving Insufficient Time to Vote
Leave enough time to vote! Lines are typically long first thing in the morning, the lunch hour, & early evening. As long as you are in line at your polling place by 8pm, you can vote.
Failing to Do Your Homework
Don’t show up at the polling place to make a decision on the fly. Do some reading about the candidates beforehand, print out a sample ballot (vote411.org) & mark your decisions to bring with you to the voting booth.
Being Mislead by Social Media Posts or Voting Myths
Best sources for accurate & reliable election information: your state election authority, Michigan.gov/Elections
Created 4/22/2026