It’s time to cast your ballot! Voters 50+ decide elections!

With the 2024 general election quickly approaching, it is vital to remember voters 50+ play a significant role in determining election outcomes. Now is the time to make your voice heard on critical issues such as supporting family caregivers and protecting Social Security for future generations. AARP encourages Floridians of all ages to make your voice heard during this critical time.

The last day to register to vote is Monday, October 7. You can fill out a voter registration form online at the state’s voter registration portal, by mail or in person at your local supervisor of elections office. Florida law does not allow registration on election day, so be sure to register as soon as possible or before the upcoming deadline.

All counties must let voters cast ballots early and in person beginning at least 10 days before an election. In Florida, the mandatory early voting period is Saturday, October 26 to Saturday, November 2, for the general election.

Voters also have the option to vote by mail. If you’re voting by mail, you are required to submit a new request each year. The deadline to request that a ballot be mailed is Thursday, October 24, for the general election. When making your request, include your full name, address, date of birth and a copy of your Florida driver’s license or state-issued identification card, or the last four digits of your Social Security number.

Once you receive your vote-by-mail ballot, you can fill it out and return it in person or by mail. If returning a ballot by mail, follow the instructions included with your voting materials to complete and mail your ballot and leave at least a week for your ballot to make it through the mail. You can also take your completed ballot to a secure ballot intake station at your county supervisor of elections office or at an early voting location. Contact your county supervisor of elections or refer to their website for the locations of all the ballot intake stations in your county.

If you prefer to join in on the excitement of visiting the polling place, you’ll want to mark Tuesday, November 5 as election day on your calendar. The polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. for the general election. You'll be allowed to cast a ballot after polls close as long as you were in line beforehand. For details on where to vote in-person, use the state's voter information portal and find your assigned polling place. Be sure to bring a valid form of identification that includes your signature.

No matter how you choose to vote, now is the crucial time to ensure your voice is heard. With critical issues on the line, such as supporting family caregivers and protecting Social Security, the stakes have never been higher. Older adults hold the potential to sway elections and significantly shape the future political landscape of our state and country. It is essential for every eligible voter in this age group to participate actively in the democratic process and make their voices count.

For more information on AARP’s priorities this election season, visit www.aarp.org/FLVOTE.