Know Your Rights Voting Information for People with Disabilities in Colorado

September 22, 2026

The 2026 General Election is Tuesday, November 3. Colorado voters have several ways to cast a ballot, including voting by mail, voting in person or using accessible voting options. 

People with disabilities have the right to vote privately and independently. They may also ask for assistance or accommodations when needed. Understanding these rights and making a plan ahead of time can help you choose the voting option that works best for you. 

Looking for a quick resource to share? Our one-page Guide for Voters with Disabilities offers a simple overview of voting rights, options, and important dates in Colorado. Share it with friends, family members, people you support or others in your community. 

This article focuses on voting rights and options in Colorado. If you live in another state, visit the U.S. Vote Foundation to find election information for your state. 

Your Voting Rights in Colorado 

As a Colorado voter with a disability, you have the right to: 

Register to vote in an accessible way 

You can register to vote or update your voter registration online at GoVoteColorado.gov. You may also register or update your information in person at a Voter Service and Polling Center, often called a VSPC. 

Monday, October 26, is the last day to register and still receive a ballot by mail for the 2026 General Election. If you register after October 26, you can still register and vote in person at a VSPC through Election Day. 

Receive a mail ballot 

Colorado automatically mails a ballot to every active registered voter. You do not need to request an absentee ballot. 

Counties may begin mailing ballots on October 2 and must mail ballots to active eligible voters by October 9. 

Before ballots are mailed, visit GoVoteColorado.gov to make sure your registration and mailing address are current. You can also use the website to check your ballot status and find voting locations. 

Vote at an accessible location 

All VSPCs must be accessible and have accessible voting machines. These machines use assistive technology to help voters with a range of disabilities vote privately and independently. 

If you plan to vote in person and have questions about a location’s accessibility, contact your county clerk and recorder before Election Day. You can explain what you need and ask about available accommodations. 

Vote privately and independently 

You have the right to fill out your ballot privately and make your own voting choices. 

If you need help because of a disability, you may ask an election judge or choose another person to assist you. That person may help you enter the voting area, read or mark your ballot, or use the voting equipment. 

Anyone assisting you must follow your instructions. They may not pressure you, persuade you to vote a certain way, or make choices on your behalf. 

Request support while voting in person 

If you need an accommodation at a VSPC, tell an election judge what would help you participate. You may also contact your county clerk before visiting a voting location to discuss your needs. 

For example, a voter who has difficulty walking or standing for long periods may ask whether seating or another accommodation is available. 

Access an electronic ballot 

Voters with disabilities can access and mark an electronic ballot privately from home or another location through Colorado’s accessible ballot system. 

For the 2026 General Election, electronic ballot access begins October 12 and continues through Election Day. 

After marking the ballot, most voters must print and return the completed ballot materials by mail, at a ballot drop box or at a VSPC. Some voters who cannot see, read, hold or mark a paper ballot because of a disability may qualify to return their ballot electronically. 

The accessible ballot system provides step-by-step instructions based on the voter’s needs. Learn more on the Colorado Secretary of State’s Accessible Voting webpage. 

Important Dates for Colorado’s 2026 Midterm Election 

• October 2: Counties may begin mailing ballots. 

• October 9: Deadline for counties to mail ballots to active eligible voters. 

• October 12: Ballot drop boxes must begin accepting ballots. Accessible electronic ballots also become available. 

• October 19: The required number of VSPCs must begin opening. Dates and hours may vary by location. 

• October 26: Last day to register and still receive a ballot by mail. 

• November 3: Election Day. VSPCs are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. 

If you register after October 26, you can still register and vote in person at a VSPC through 7 p.m. on Election Day. 

Voting by Mail 

Voting by mail allows you to complete your ballot from home and take the time you need. 

Your county clerk must receive your completed ballot by 7 p.m. on Tuesday, November 3. Postmarks do not count. 

Return your ballot at a ballot drop box or VSPC instead of placing it in the mail if Election Day is near. You can return a mail ballot to any official ballot drop box in Colorado. 

Visit GoVoteColorado.gov to find a ballot drop box or VSPC. Denver voters can also view a map of Denver voting and ballot drop-off locations. 

Before You Vote 

Making a voting plan can help make Election Day easier. Think about how and when you want to vote, what support or accommodations you may need, and how you will return your ballot if you vote by mail. It can also be helpful to make sure the people in your life have a plan that works for them. Sharing information about voting options, and accommodations can help friends, family members and others in your community prepare, too. 

• Check your voter registration. Confirm that your name and address are correct at GoVoteColorado.gov. 
• Choose how you want to vote. Decide whether voting by mail, using an accessible electronic ballot, or voting in person works best for you. 
• Review your ballot. You can view a sample ballot through GoVoteColorado.gov. 
• Ask about accommodations. If you plan to vote in person, contact your county clerk ahead of time with questions about accessibility or available support. 
• Make a plan to return your ballot. Remember that your ballot must be received by 7 p.m. on Election Day. 

If You Experience an Accessibility Problem 

If you encounter an accessibility barrier or believe your voting rights have been violated, contact your county clerk or the Colorado Secretary of State’s Elections Division. 

The Secretary of State also provides information about the state’s election complaint process. Disability Law Colorado may be able to help voters understand their rights or complete a complaint. 

Share This Resource  

Voting is one way to take part in decisions that affect you, your family and your community. Knowing your rights and options can help you make a voting plan that works for you. 

Help spread the word. Share our Guide for Voters with Disabilities with friends, family members, people you support and others in your community. Making sure the people around you know their voting options and have a plan can help more people prepare to participate in the election. 

For additional information, visit the Colorado Secretary of State’s Accessible Voting webpage or review its Voters with Disabilities FAQs.