You may or may not know it, but Tuesday November 4th is the day to vote. That’s right – midterm elections are here, and for many people that means they get a chance to make a decision about the makeup of Congress or governorship in their state.

But what do you do if you arrive to your designated voting site and the building isn’t accessible, or there are other problems which would cause you difficulties in casting your vote?

Go to the voting place prepared. You don’t want to be stuck – physically or metaphorically – at the voting site and not be able to cast your vote.

Here are a few tips to make sure your vote is counted:

• Make sure you are registered to vote. There may be a specific time frame you must register in advance of a vote, so if you miss out this year, go ahead and register so you can vote in future elections.
• If you are not sure, confirm your voting location with your city or county government office. You can also call ahead to ask information about where to park, whether there is accessible transportation, etc.
• Get the phone number for your State Office of Protection and Advocacy and bring it with you when you vote. If you run into any barriers (lack of accessible transportation, physical accessibility of the building, problems accessing voting equipment, or understanding your rights), this is the correct office to advise you of your rights under the ADA and make sure you get a chance to vote.

Why go through the hassle of going to the voting booth at all?

• Many states allow individuals to register as an absentee voter. Once you get registered, you can remotely cast your vote! For next time, plan ahead and register to absentee vote.