1

Overview 

The COVID-19 crisis has led to additional accessibility challenges in the 

administration of elections. We recognize that the pandemic has amplified 

existing barriers for voters with disabilities and want to commend the work of 

election officials during this time. State and local officials have spared no effort to 

address the challenges of COVID-19 and extraordinary progress has been made 

to protect the safety of both voters with disabilities and poll workers. A number 

of states have adopted new accessible technology to provide remote options for 

voters with disabilities. Now more than twenty states and the District of Columbia 

offer electronic ballot delivery. As new election procedures are implemented in 

the states and localities, this document provides recommendations on meeting 

accessibility requirements. 

It is estimated that more than 38.3 million Americans with disabilities, roughly 

one-sixth of the electorate, are eligible to vote in the 2020 general election. This 

growing demographic encompasses a broad range of voters, including those with 

mobility, visual, communicative, physical, or cognitive impairments. 

The Help America Vote Act (HAVA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) 

affirm the right to a private, independent, and accessible vote for people with 

disabilities. The EAC works to assist election officials by serving as a 

clearinghouse, strengthening voting systems, and improving overall voting 

experiences. Below are some tips and recommendations to localities to empower 

voters with disabilities this fall. We want to hear your continuous feedback on 
2

local best practices that are helping serve voters with disabilities on the front 

lines. Please email listen@eac.gov to share your thoughts and ideas. We will 

update this resource with your input. 

Communicating Voting Options: 

We understand this election season is incredibly busy, but it is vital that 

2020 procedural materials are accessible. 

 Make sure your website is accessible and clearly details all voting options 

as set forth by the ADA and HAVA.

 Consult resources such as the United States Access Board’s internet 

standards, National Council on Independent Living's website elections 

toolkit for disability advocates, Department of Justice ADA informal 

directives, and Website Content Accessibility Guidance.

 Create accessible documents to outline new COVID-19 procedures.

 Incorporate alternatives to electronic communication including television, 

radio, and print advertisements for those without internet access.

 Engage various organizations such as local chapters of disability advocacy 

groups, independent living centers, veteran facilities, nursing homes, 

disability rights network organizations, and assisted living centers. This site

may serve as a starting point for identifying groups in your area.

 Consider hosting a virtual discussion for voters with disabilities and 

advocates on accessible voting options, election information, and any 

relevant deadlines. 

 If necessary, reach out to the EAC or local sources with any questions.

Early Voting: 

Early voting will help reduce lines or congestion on Election Day and may be 

a popular option for voters concerned about COVID-19 risks. This option 

must be accessible. Election offices that serve as early voting sites need to 

be prepared for voters with disabilities. 

 Please remember that all HAVA and ADA requirements apply to early 

voting.

 Communicate your early voting options to people with disabilities through 

media, civic associations, and local advocacy organizations.
3

In-Person Accessible Voting: 

Millions of voters with disabilities will exercise their right to vote in person 

this fall. To help in-person voting run smoothly:

 Ensure poll workers and election workers are trained on accessible voting 

systems. Many jurisdictions are facing a shortage of experienced poll 

workers; an increase in first time poll workers means this training is even 

more essential.

 Provide poll workers with instruction on how to assist voters with 

disabilities while practicing social distancing.

 Ensure physical access and the path to vote are not disrupted by COVID-19 

precautions.

 In making access preparations, consult the Department of Justice polling 

place ADA checklist.

 Integrate the cleaning of accessible voting systems into regular polling 

place COVID-19 procedures.

 As you prepare for an increased demand for curbside voting, troubleshoot 

potential logistical issues and consider additional staff, resources, and 

traffic management solutions. 

 Consider partnering with advocacy groups to encourage voters with 

disabilities to serve as poll workers and assistants at the polling place.

 Find accessible methods to accommodate voters that usually rely upon lip 

reading. Informational displays and clear face shields for poll workers may 

be helpful. 

 Actively publicize new procedure information to the public and local 

disability advocacy organizations.

 Harness social media, public service announcements, and online outreach 

to ensure voters with disabilities are aware of changes to 2020 polling 

locations.

 Update all information on your elections website and make sure it is 

accessible and easy to locate.

Making Lines and Wait Times Work for Voters with Disabilities: 

A significant portion of the disability community has mobility challenges. 

This may make waiting in line difficult. Please consider flexible options:

 Chairs should always be available for voters with disabilities.

 Poll workers and greeters should check with voters regarding any disability 

needs.
4

 As plans are made, remember most polling place adaptations are very 

budget friendly. Often you will be able to use existing supplies or low-cost 

materials to remove physical impediments and improve signage. 

 Effectively communicate accessible early voting and mail and absentee 

options to reduce Election Day lines. 

Mail and Absentee Voting: 

In the 2020 general election, many people with disabilities will vote by mail 

or absentee ballot. Please consider the following as you work to make this 

option accessible:

 Depending on your jurisdiction’s options, effectively communicate all 

services and corresponding deadlines to voters with disabilities and 

advocacy organizations.

 Actively promote mail and absentee voting alternatives, especially accessible 

options such as electronic ballot delivery systems.

 Ballot drop boxes should be accessible for all disabilities. This includes both 

location and physical access.

 Communicate any no-excuse ballot options and corresponding 

requirements.

 Utilize local disability leaders and organizations to disseminate information 

about available services.

 Make sure your website is accessible and clearly displays all information.

Additional Information: 

 The EAC released frequently asked questions to further assist election 

officials in the use of CARES Act and HAVA funds to help voters with 

disabilities. Low-cost adjustments can be a valuable use of these funds. Email 

the EAC grants office at Havafunding@eac.gov if you have any funding 

questions. 

 For more information on EAC resources to assist in your accessibility efforts, 

email listen@eac.gov, visit eac.gov, or call (301) 563-3919.