New York Voting Rights Restoration

Misdemeanor convictions in New York

Can prisoners vote in jail?

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.

You do not lose the right to vote if you are convicted of a misdemeanor in New York. 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.

Felony conviction in New York

Can felons vote in New York?

You lose the right to vote while incarcerated if you are convicted of a felony. If you are on parole, probation, or have fully completed your sentence, you may register to vote and cast a ballot. Your voting rights can be revoked again if conditions of your parole are violated.

Even if you have a prior felony conviction in another state, as long as you are a citizen, resident of New York State, and not in prison for a felony conviction, you are eligible to register and vote in New York.

Next steps for restoring voting rights in New York

If your sentence is completed, you may register to vote and cast a ballot, even if you are on parole or probation.

If you were convicted of a felony outside of New York and your sentence is complete, including parole, you may register to vote and cast a ballot.

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

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For help with finding your Election Official.

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