ALBANY, N.Y. – The New York State Board of Elections is encouraging the use of absentee ballots or early voting during the upcoming June elections, in an effort to avoid crowding polling places during the coronavirus pandemic.

All voters eligible to vote during the June 23 elections have been sent absentee ballot applications with return paid postage. Those concerned about exposing themselves to the virus can select “temporary illness or physical disability” as the reason for requesting an absentee ballot.

Completed absentee ballot applications must be received by the local board of elections postmarked no later than June 16. Voters may also email, fax or call their county board of elections to request an absentee ballot, and must provide name and address.

Ballots must be postmarked June 22, to ensure receipt by the applicable county or city Board of Elections by June 30. If returned in-person, it must be received by the board before 9 p.m. on June 23.

For more information, or to download an absentee application, visit: elections.ny.gov.

People can also vote in-person during the early voting period from June 13 – 21, while following social distancing at polling locations.

Polls will also be open 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. on June 23.