Federal Write-In Absentee Ballot (FWAB)

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Who can use the FWAB?
A:  It can only be used by voters who already registered to vote and requested an absentee ballot (either using the Federal form or an individual state’s method).   

Q:  When should I get a FWAB?
A:  If you requested your state’s ballot for the November 4 General Election and it does not arrive by October 20, you should get an FWAB.

Q:  How can I get the FWAB? 
A:  You can get a hard copy from AIT or you can download one from www.fvap.gov

Q:  How can I mail the FWAB to the U.S.?
A:  Click here for AIT’s webpage which details voter mailing options from Taiwan.  To get the address of your local election official, visit www.fvap.gov

Q:  Can I e-mail or fax my voted ballot to the U.S.?
A:  A few states allow this. Voters must waive their right to a secret ballot.  If your state allows you to email or fax a ballot, it also requires that you follow up by mailing a hard copy for the record.  Click here to check your state’s requirements in the Voting Assistance Guide. 

Q: Is a notary or witness required? 
A: Only a few states require notarization, but many states have witness requirements.  State requirements can be very particular.  For instance, Wisconsin requires that an adult U.S. citizen witness the ballot return envelope and include his/her date of birth.  Click here to check your state’s requirements in the Voting Assistance Guide. 

Q:  How much does AIT charge for notarizing the FWAB?
A:  There is no charge for voting-related notarizations.

Q: What if I send the voted FWAB and then I receive their regular state ballot?
A:  You should still mark the state ballot and return it.  If the regular state ballot arrives in time, the local election officials will count it rather than the FWAB.

Q:  Are absentee votes really counted?
A:  All absentee votes that arrive by the state’s deadline are counted for the official record.  Many states have deadlines after November 4 (for instance, New York requires that ballots be postmarked by November 3, but arrive by November 17).  In that case, election results may already have been announced but the vote will be counted for the record.

Q:  I have further questions.
A:  Please write to VoteTaipei@state.gov.