Mail In Ballots Have Begun to Arrive in Contra Costa County. What to Know.

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA — Mail-in ballots for the upcoming election are being delivered to voters across the county. Starting this week, all registered voters will receive a ballot packet, which includes the official ballot, voting instructions, a return envelope, and an “I Voted” sticker.

Key Dates and Process

• Delivery Schedule: Military and overseas ballots were mailed 45 days before the election. All other vote-by-mail ballots are mailed 29 days prior to Election Day.
• Tracking Your Ballot: Voters can monitor their ballot’s status using the “Where’s My Ballot?” tool at WheresMyBallot.sos.ca.gov. Notifications will confirm when the ballot is mailed, received, and counted.

Voting and Returning Your Ballot

• How to Vote: Use blue or black ink to mark your ballot. If you make a mistake, you can still mark your intended choice clearly without needing a new ballot.
• Ballot Return Options:
  1. Mail it back (postage is prepaid). The ballot must be postmarked by Election Day and received within seven days.
  2. Drop it off at any secure drop box in the county.
  3. Bring it to any polling place or early voting location.

Signature Requirements

• Signature Verification: Each returned ballot envelope must be signed. Signatures are compared to voter records for accuracy. If a signature is missing or doesn’t match, the voter will be notified and given the opportunity to correct it through the “Text2Cure” program or by submitting a correction form.

Ballot Drop-Off Locations

Several convenient locations across the county are available for early ballot drop-off:

• Alamo: Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, 190 Alamo Plaza
• Antioch: Antioch City Hall, 200 H St.
• Concord: Concord City Hall, 1950 Parkside Dr.
• Richmond: Richmond City Hall, 450 Civic Center Plaza
• San Ramon: Dougherty Station Community Center, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd.

A complete list of locations is available on the county elections website.

Replacement Ballots and Assistance

Voters who do not receive their ballot or need a replacement due to loss or damage can request one by contacting the elections office. Accessible vote-by-mail options are also available upon request.

For additional questions or issues, voters can contact the Contra Costa County Elections Office at (925) 335-7800.

This year, voting by mail offers a flexible, safe, and easy way to participate in the election. Be sure to return your ballot by Election Day to ensure your vote counts.