Understanding Permanent Vote by Mail and the Option to Opt Out
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As election processes continue to evolve, vote by mail remains an important and convenient option for many Illinois voters. In Clay County, voters who have signed up for the Permanent Vote By Mail program automatically receive a ballot for the political parties and elections they have chosen. This service is designed to make voting more accessible and ensure that every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate.
However, not every voter enrolled in the program continues to use it. For that reason, the Clay County Clerk’s Office is encouraging voters to review whether Permanent Vote by Mail still fits their needs—and to consider opting out if it does not.
Under Illinois law, the County Clerk is required to send correspondence prior to a General Election to every registered voter unless that voter has already opted out or is enrolled in the Permanent Vote by Mail program. This mailing requirement ensures voters are informed of their options, but it also comes with a significant cost. Printing, preparing, and mailing notices to all registered voters requires a substantial investment of taxpayer dollars. When voters who are enrolled in Permanent Vote by Mail do not use the ballots sent to them, additional resources are spent unnecessarily.
By choosing to opt out of the program if it is not being used, voters can help the county reduce these costs and make more efficient use of public funds.
At the same time, vote by mail continues to play a vital role in the election process. For many residents, it provides a flexible and reliable way to cast a ballot. If being on the Permanent Vote by Mail list makes voting easier, the Clerk’s Office strongly encourages voters to take advantage of this service.
It is important to note that opting out of Permanent Vote by Mail does not prevent a voter from voting by mail in the future. Applications to receive a mail ballot are always available prior to each election. Voters may also choose to re-enroll in the Permanent Vote by Mail program at any time.
Voters who wish to opt out have several convenient options. You may drop off your signed form at the County Clerk and Recorder’s office at the courthouse on the first floor or return it by mail to P.O. Box 160, Louisville, IL 62858. Signed forms may also be emailed to ccclerk@claycounty.illinois.gov.
The first day for the Clay County Clerk to mail out the notice of the option for permanent vote by mail application to every voter is August 5, 2026. When you receive this notice please complete it and return so we can prepare for the General Election in November by either signing up or opting out.
In addition to voting by mail, several in-person voting options are available:
• Early voting at the Clay County Courthouse begins September 24, 2026
• Voting is available at the courthouse on the Saturday before the election
• Polling places are open throughout the county on Election Day
Voters are encouraged to choose the best method that works for them. Whether by mail or in person, the goal remains the same: to ensure every eligible voter has the opportunity to participate in the election process while also being mindful of taxpayer funds.
