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1. How do I find a sample ballot for the current election?

Your residential address determines what ballot you will receive. You may find your sample ballot by using our Elections Look-up Tool. The Linn County Election Services office has the sample ballots set up in this manner so the data is easy to find and less confusing for our users. Sample ballot styles can vary in number by the complexity of the election.

Linn County Elections Look-up Tool

2. How do I find my polling place?

Your polling place is determined by your residential address. You may find your polling place by using our Elections Look-up Tool.

Linn County Elections Look-up Tool

3. Who are my government representatives?

You may find your representatives by using our Elections Look-up Tool. Your representatives are determined by your residential address. Linn County Elections Look-up Tool

4. Does your office have precinct maps?

Yes. Our office has a variety of Election based maps online and printed maps at our office.

Election Maps

5. Do I have to vote according to the party affiliation on my voter registration?

No.

Ballots are secret and voters have the right to vote for any candidate they want.

The only time that party affiliation is important in terms of voting is in the case of a political party caucus or a primary election. In those cases, voters must be registered with the political party whose caucus or primary they wish to participate in. Voters have the right to change their affiliation and then participate in the caucus or primary election on, or prior to, the day those events are being held. Voters can only participate in one party's caucus or primary election each time those events take place.

6. If I miss the Pre-registration Deadline, can I still vote?

While it is highly recommended that you register to vote or update your registration prior to Election Day, you may still register after the Pre-registration Deadline.

An individual may register and vote on Election Day at his/her correct polling place.

Find your polling place online at www.linncountyelections.org/lookup. Election Day Registration Information

7. Can I use the Election Day Registration process at your office and then go to the polls on Election Day?

No. Individuals wanting to use the Election Day Registration process must vote immediately at the time of registration.

Election Day Registration Information

8. What types of elections are held in Linn County?

The county has a variety of elections in a four-year cycle. Those elections are: Primary Elections: These elections take place on even number years and the election is countywide. In the state of Iowa, the Primary Elections are “closed primaries” which means a voter wishing to participate will need to declare a party to vote the party’s primary ballot. Typically, there is only the Democratic and Republican Party ballots for the Primary Elections. There have been Primary Elections where additional parties have been added. General Elections: General Elections are held on even number years and the election is countywide. There are two types of General Elections, Presidential General Elections and Gubernatorial Elections. Presidential General Elections are held to elect the President of the United States on the first Tuesday followed by the first Monday in November every four years (2004, 2008 for example). Gubernatorial Elections are held to elect the Governor of Iowa in on the first Tuesday followed by the first Monday in November every four years (2006, 2010 for example). It is common for other Federal, State and County Offices, Township positions, a Judicial Ballot and public measures to be on the General Election ballot. City/School Elections: City/School elections are held in November during odd number years. Depending on the city and the form city government, positions on the city election ballot will vary. Registered voters who reside in the city are allowed to participate in this election. Registered voters who reside in the school district are allowed to participate in this election. Special Elections: Special Elections can be held on specific dates set by the Iowa Secretary of State during a calendar year. Special elections can be used to fill vacancies and to vote on public measures on a State, County, City or School District level. Common special elections in Linn County are Local Option Sales and Services Tax, School Bond and Revenue Purpose Statements and to fill vacancies.

9. Can I use the Election Day Registration process and vote at your office?

Yes. Election Day Registration Information

10. Is the Linn County Elections Office responsible for the caucus?

No.

The parties participating in the caucus are responsible for setting locations, staff and materials.

The Elections Office is simply the custodian of paperwork received from the political parties.

11. Why can’t I vote in a Primary Election if I am an Independent or No Party?

In the state of Iowa, the Primary Elections are “closed primaries” which means a voter wishing to participate will need to declare a party to vote the party’s primary ballot. Typically, there is only the Democratic and Republican Party ballots for the Primary Elections.

12. Does Linn County have instant runoff elections?

Currently in the state of Iowa, instant runoff elections are not allowed. It is best to contact your legislator if you wish have this added to the State Code. You may find your state legislator online at www.linncountyelections.org/lookup.

13. Does Linn County have recall elections?

Currently in the state of Iowa, recall elections are not allowed. It is best to contact your legislator if you wish have this added to the State Code. You may find your state legislator online at www.linncountyelections.org/lookup.

14. How can the form of city government be changed?

Please refer to the link below for additional information. Changing the Form of City Government

15. How can the form of county government be changed?

Please use the link below for further information. Changing the Form of County Government

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1. How do I get an absentee ballot?

You may vote an absentee ballot either through the mail or in person at the Auditor's Office. Complete an absentee ballot request form (PDF). For more information, call 319-892-5300 or email.

You may mail the form to:

Linn County Election Services

935 Second St. SW

Cedar Rapids, IA 52404-2100

2. Can I use the Election Day Registration process at your office and have an absentee ballot be mailed to me?

No. Individuals wanting to use the Election Day Registration process must vote immediately at the time of registration.

Election Day Registration Information

3. I am retired and spend time at my vacation home during the winters. Can I still vote in Linn County?

Yes. Iowans who are temporarily away from their homes do not lose residency for voting purposes. As long as a voter does not register in more than one place, the voter's registration status will remain as it is. Our Address is: Linn County Election Services 935 2nd St SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404-2100

Absentee Ballot Request Form

4. Does Iowa have permanent absentee voting?

No. Iowa does not have permanent absentee voting. Voters must complete a request for an absentee ballot for each election for which they would like an absentee ballot.

Absentee Ballot Request Form

5. What is the last day I can request an absentee ballot to be mailed to me?

The last day our office can mail out a ballot is the 15 days before all elections. After this date, voters wanting to vote absentee must do so in-person at the Auditor's Office on the Monday before the election.

Absentee Ballot Request Form

6. Do I need to get my request for an absentee ballot notarized or witnessed?

No. Absentee ballot requests do not need to be notarized or witnessed in Iowa.

Absentee Ballot Request Form

7. Can someone with the power of attorney request an absentee ballot on a voter's behalf?

No. An individual who has power of attorney does not have the authority to sign a voter registration form, request an absentee ballot, or cast an absentee ballot on behalf of the voter. If a voter is unable to sign, the voter can use a stamp or make a mark to sign. The voter may also ask for assistance and have someone sign the form on the voter's behalf as long as it is done in the voter's presence and with the voter's permission.

8. If I need assistance while voting my absentee ballot, can someone assist me?

Yes. If you need help marking your ballot due to a physical disability or inability to read the ballot, you may choose any person to help you except your employer, your employer's agent, or an officer/agent of your union. If you are not physically able to sign the forms, you can use a stamp or make a mark to sign. You may also ask for assistance or have someone sign the form on your behalf as long as it is in your presence and with your permission.

9. What can I do if I make a mistake when voting my ballot?

There are also procedures for "spoiling" mailed absentee ballots that are sent with your absentee ballot. If you make a mistake, place all voting materials in the return envelope. Write “SPOILED BALLOT” on the return envelope. Mail or deliver the envelope to the County Auditor and request a replacement ballot.

10. What should I do if I requested an absentee ballot but I have not received it?

You can track your absentee ballot online by using the  Track Your Absentee Ballot search. You can see the date your absentee ballot request was processed by our office, the date the office sent your ballot, and the date the office received your voted ballot. Also you may call the Linn County Elections Office. Our phone number is 319-892-5300. There are procedures for obtaining a reissued ballot.

11. What can I do if I lost or damaged my absentee ballot?

Call the Linn County Elections Office. Our phone number is 319-892-5300. There are procedures for obtaining a replacement ballot.

12. If a voter casts an absentee ballot but dies before Election Day, is the ballot counted?

No. Iowa law prohibits these ballots from being counted if our office is notified of the death before absentee ballots are considered.

13. I've heard that absentee ballots are only counted if they will affect the outcome of the election. Is this true?

No. In Iowa, all absentee ballots that are received on time are considered for counting. Absentee ballots received by Election Day are counted on Election Day. Ballots received after Election Day but before the deadline are counted when the absentee and special voters' precinct board meets as long as they are postmarked the day before Election Day or earlier.

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1. I am a student at a college outside of Linn County. Can I still vote in Linn County?

Yes. Iowans who are temporarily away from their homes do not lose residency for voting purposes. As long as a voter does not register in more than one place, the voter's registration status will remain as it is. Our address is: Linn County Election Services 935 2nd Street SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404-2100

Absentee Ballot Request Form

2. Do I Need an ID to Register?

No. The Iowa Voter Registration form will ask you to provide your Iowa driver's license number, Iowa non-operator number or the last four digits for your Social Security Number. Please be sure to provide this on the voter registration form so the Linn County Election Services Office can verify your identity. It is best to avoid any problems on election day when you go to cast your ballot!

3. Do I Register at School or Home?

College Students have a choice about where to register to vote. Students must decided between the school or home address for voter registration purposes. 

Registering at Your School Address

Students attending college in Linn County may register at their school address. You must plan to return after temporary absences, like summer break, but do not have to plan to reside at that address permanently.

Students attending Coe College or Cornell College must include what dorm/building they are residing in. Unfortunately, both college campuses cross precinct boundaries which require additional information like your dorm/building name. This additional information allows our office to place you in the correct precinct and issue the proper ballot.

Voter Registration Forms

• Coe College Voter Registration Form (PDF)
• Cornell College Voter Registration Form (PDF)
• Iowa Voter Registration Form (PDF)

Registering at Your Home Address

Students may choose to register or remain registered at a permanent address in Iowa or outside the state. In this case, students may need to vote by absentee ballot.

4. What Type of ID Do I Need to Vote?

Iowa voters are required to show ID at the polls before voting. The ID must be one of the following:

• Iowa Driver's License 
• Iowa Non-Operator's ID
• Military ID
• U.S. Passport
• Tribal ID
• Veteran's ID
• Voter ID Card (must be signed)

If you are not already registered to vote in Iowa and wish to register and vote on Election Day, you must provide proof of identity and residence at the polls to complete Election Day Registration. Click here to view information about Election Day Registration.

5. Where Do I Vote?

• Find your Linn County polling location online.
• Voters must cast their ballots in the correct precinct. There are some polling locations that share the same facility. It is best to pay attention to signs and to be in the right line!

6. How Can I Vote?

By Mail:

Iowa allows voters who expect to be away from, or unable to make it to, their polling location on Election Day to vote by mail-in ballot. Voters have to apply for a mail-in ballot.

The absentee ballot deadline is 10 days before a general election, like a Presidential or Gubernatorial Election, and 11 days before other elections. The absentee ballot request form must be in the Auditor's Office by 5 p.m. on the absentee ballot deadline.

Voters may apply for a mail-in ballot at the office starting 120 days before Election Day and ending the Friday before the election. Completed mail-in ballots must be received by the Election Services' office by the close of polls on Election Day, or postmarked by the day before Election Day and received by noon the following Monday.

Our mailing address is:
Linn County Election Services
935 2^nd Street SW
Cedar Rapids, IA 52404

Early In-person:

Early voting begins no more than 29 days before an election at the Linn County Election Services' Office.

Office hours are Monday through Friday 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

 Our office is located in the Jean Oxley Public Service Center on the second floor at 935 2^nd Street SW in Cedar Rapids.

Election Day at the Polls:

The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. for General (Presidential or Gubernatorial), Primary and Special Partisan Elections.

The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. for School, City and Special Non-Partisan Election.

Find your Linn County polling location online.

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1. What date does redistricting take effect?

New precincts and districts, excluding county supervisor districts, in go into place on January 15, 2022 which is written into the Iowa Constitution. 

County Supervisor Districts will be drawn by Legislative Services Agency in late January.

2. Why does redistricting happen?

After each decennial census, districts must be reapportioned for fair and balanced representation. 

 

Federal House Districts, State Senate and House Districts are drawn by Legislative Services Agency and approved by the state congressional body.

 

Precinct boundaries can have no more than 3,500 people when precincts are created.

3. What still needs to be completed?

Precinct plans have been approved by the Secretary of State’s Office.

County Supervisor Districts will be drawn by Legislative Services Agency and approved by the Temporary Redistricting Commission. The Board of Supervisors has the final approve of the supervisor districts.

4. Can I look up the new districts and precincts?

New districts and precincts can be viewed online at https://gis.linncountyiowa.gov/portal/apps/View/index.html?appid=61b044d1fd8c47ff85f134ee079a90dd.

County Supervisor Districts will be drawn by Legislative Services Agency in late January.

5. When will House District, Senate District, County Supervisor Districts, College Community Director Districts and School Director Districts be available?

House and senate districts can be viewed at https://gis.linncountyiowa.gov/portal/apps/View/index.html?appid=61b044d1fd8c47ff85f134ee079a90dd.

County Supervisor Districts will be drawn by Legislative Services Agency in late January.

Adoption of School Director Districts Plans by May 15, 2023.

Community College Director District Boundaries must be completed by June 1, 2023.

6. When will the lookup tool be updated?

Once precincts and a county supervisor district plan is approved, our office will begin working on migrating the lookup tool to the new precincts and county supervisor districts.

7. How are districts decided?

Federal House Districts, State Senate and House Districts are drawn by Legislative Services Agency and approved by the state congressional body.

House and senate districts can be viewed at https://gis.linncountyiowa.gov/portal/apps/View/index.html?appid=61b044d1fd8c47ff85f134ee079a90dd.

Legislative Services Agency draws county supervisor districts for Linn County. 

8. How are precinct boundaries drawn?

Precinct boundaries can have no more than 3,500 people when precincts are created.

Precincts must be nested within house districts and cannot cross these lines.

When drawing precinct boundaries, our office cannot take into consideration where polling places are and where elected officials live.

New precincts can be viewed online at https://gis.linncountyiowa.gov/portal/apps/View/index.html?appid=61b044d1fd8c47ff85f134ee079a90dd.

9. What happens if my district and/or precinct changes?

At this time, the Linn County Elections Office is considering what would work the best for voter outreach.

10. Will I get a new voter ID/confirmation card?

At this time, the Linn County Elections Office is considering what would work the best for voter outreach.

11. How many precincts are in the county?

There will be 94 general election precincts in Linn County, Iowa when the plan is approved by the Secretary of State's Office.

After the 2002 and 2012 redistricting process, Linn County had 86 precincts.

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1. How do I register to vote?

You may register in person at our office, by mail, at the IDOT Cedar Rapids driver’s license station or any city hall in Linn County. 

Registrants must complete an Official Iowa Voter Registration form. 

Mail the completed form to: Linn County Election Services 935 2nd St SW Cedar Rapids, IA 52404-2100

Online through the Iowa Department of Transportation Online Service website. An Iowa Driver’s license or non-operator ID is required to register in this manner.

Voter Registration Form

2. What is the pre-registration deadline to register to vote?

The pre-registration deadline is 15 days before all elections. After that date, anyone wishing to vote, either absentee or at the polls, must go through the Election Day registration process. This process must be done in-person either at the Auditor’s Office when voting absentee or at the polling location on Election Day. To avoid delays when voting, everyone is strongly encouraged to get registered or update their registration before the preregistration deadline. Voters who are not registered or have moved since the last time voting, may have to vote a provisional ballot if they cannot meet identification requirements at the polls.

Election Day Registration Information

3. How do I determine my residence for voter registration purposes?

A residence for voting purposes is where the voter's home is located. A business or any other non-residential property cannot be used for voter registration purposes unless that place is a primary, nighttime residence for the voter. Homeless people are residents of the place where they usually sleep. The voter can only declare one residence for voter registration purposes. There is no restriction on how long a voter has to live somewhere before it can become a residence for voting purposes. The Iowa Code does allow a voter's registration to be challenged for the reason that the voter is not a resident at the address where the voter is registered to vote.

4. I've lost my voter registration card. How do I get it replaced?

Our office can mail a replacement voter registration card to you. Voter registration cards must be mailed. You may not pick up your registration card at the Auditor’s Office. You may request a duplicate voter registration card over the phone (319-892-5300).

You may also request a new voter registration card by completing this form.

5. If I am already registered to vote, do I have to register again before each election?

No. Once you have registered to vote, you do not have to register before each election, unless you move to a new county in Iowa or new State. Voter registration is not transferable across county jurisdictions. If you have moved or changed your name, you must update your voter registration. You may update your voter registration by completing a voter registration form and mailing it to our office. To verify your voter registration, visit  Am I Registered to Vote in Iowa?

Voter Registration Form

6. Can someone with the power of attorney sign a voter registration form on a voter's behalf?

No. An individual who has power of attorney does not have the authority to sign a voter registration form, request an absentee ballot, or cast an absentee ballot on behalf of the voter. If a voter is unable to sign, the voter can use a stamp or make a mark to sign. The voter may also ask for assistance and have someone sign the form on the voter's behalf as long as it is done in the voter's presence and with the voter's permission.

7. Is my voter registration record information considered public information?

Yes. However, your record can only be viewed or obtained by others for specific purposes outlined below. Voter registration records are public records as defined by Chapter 22 of the Code of Iowa. The records must be available for public inspection at reasonable times (§48A.34). Iowa law does not allow for a voter's registration record to be made private. Iowa law allows for the purchase of voter registration lists (See Iowa Code section 48A.38.) Requests can be made at our office. Both the Secretary of State's Office and county auditors are required to maintain a log containing the name, address, and telephone number of every person who receives voter registration information. A voter's Social Security number, driver's license number, non-operator ID number, and the name of an individual agency where a voter registration form was completed are confidential information and are never given to anyone requesting voter lists. Using the information for any commercial purpose is a serious misdemeanor under Iowa law.

8. Can the status of my voter registration change?

Yes. Your voter registration status may change if the County Auditor's Office tried to contact you by mail and the piece of mail was returned undeliverable by the U.S. post office. Also, voter records may be cancelled if the voter no longer meets the qualifications to vote. For more information on voter registration qualifications, see  Voter Registration information.

Iowa Voter Registration Form

9. How do I change my address before an election?

Before the end of voter pre-registration:  Linn County registered voters may change their address without any proof of residency. After the end of voter pre-registration (15 days before the election):  Linn County registered voters will need to have proper proof of residency to update their address if it is outside their previous precinct.

The following are acceptable proofs of residence:

• Iowa Driver’s License/Non-driver ID
• Residential Lease/ College Residency Letter
• Property Tax Statement (current within 45 days of final payment)
• Utility Bill, including cell phone bill
• Bank Statement
• Paycheck
• Government Check/Document

Attester If you cannot prove where you live with the documents listed above, a registered voter from your precinct may attest for you. Both you and the attester will be required to sign an oath swearing the statements being made are true. Falsely attesting or being attested for is registration fraud. It is a class “D” felony and is punishable by a fine of up to $7,500 and up to 5 years in prison Linn County registered voters who move within their precinct do not need to provide proof of residency. The best way to prove residency when making a change of address is with a valid Iowa driver’s license with a current address printed on it.