The right to vote is one of our nation's oldest and most important entitlements, and with this right comes responsibility. Free and open elections are the basis on which this country was formed and you can make a difference by becoming a poll worker to help protect those freedoms.

Because of COVID-19, New York is experiencing a critical shortage of poll workers. Historically, 55 percent of all New York’s poll workers are over the age of 60, making them especially vulnerable to the pandemic. This has resulted in a significant need for poll workers who are willing and able to assist with the administration of in-person voting during all elections.

When are you needed?

For the June primary during Early Voting, June 17th to June 25th, and Primary Day, June 27th.

For the General Election during Early Voting, October 28th to November 5th, and Election Day, November 7th.

What tasks will you perform as a poll worker?

• Prepare the polling place for voting
• Set up the voting equipment
• Sign-in and process voters
• Enforce social distancing
• Demonstrate voting procedures to the voters
• Sanitize voting equipment
• Close the polling place
• Canvass and report the results
• Assist voter if requested

You are eligible to serve as a poll worker if you:

Are a New York State registered voter. If you are 17 years old, you may be eligible if your school district participates in a program under Education Law Section 3207-a. Interpreters do not need to be registered voters. You will be assigned within the county where you live. If you live in New York City, you will be assigned within the five boroughs.

Will you be paid?

Yes, Poll Workers get paid for training and each day they work.
The Board of Elections is committed to fulfilling its responsibility to the citizens of New York State by providing fair and accurate elections. This responsibility and the credit associated with it must be shared with the many dedicated workers that help make elections successful. You can get involved and become a proud participant in a process that is the foundation of democracy in our country. Come work with us.

Applying is simple and easy:

If you live in NYC, please complete the NYC Election Day Worker Form.

If you live outside NYC, please complete the Outside NYC Election Day Worker Form.