Misdemeanor convictions in Illinois
You do not lose the right to vote if convicted of a misdemeanor in Illinois. If you are incarcerated for a misdemeanor you should check voter registration status, register to vote if necessary, and request an absentee ballot from office administrators at your complex.
You can vote while awaiting trial for any charge, even if incarcerated, as long as you have not lost your right to vote due to a prior conviction.
Felony conviction in Illinois
You lose the right to vote while incarcerated if you are convicted of a felony. Following your conviction, you can have your voting rights restored within 14 days.
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In all states, it's a felony to vote if your voting rights are currently revoked. If you are uncertain about your status from the information provided on this page, call 1-866-OUR-VOTE for more information.
HELPFUL U.S. VOTE FOUNDATION RESOURCES
For help with:
- Registering to vote
- Requesting an absentee ballot
- Requesting a mail-in ballot
For help with finding your Election Official.