Photographer: KNXV
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Posted: 11/02/2012
PHOENIX - In less than four days, voters will be headed to the polls to cast their ballots.
But experts say there's a lot you need to know beforehand to make sure your election day experience goes as smoothly as possible.
For example, many people don't realize that their employer is required to give them time off from work to vote.
It's called the Arizona Voting Leave law.
There are some restrictions but it basically says you're allowed to take time off to vote and not be penalized.
Experts say knowing information like that, and generally being prepared, will ensure your vote gets counted on election day.
Matt Roberts, spokesperson for Arizona Secretary of State Ken Bennett, tells ABC15 it's now too late to mail in your early ballot.
Roberts says if you drop it in the mail now, it may not arrive on time.
"Every year it seems we get a few ballots that arrive on Wednesday," said Roberts. "Those ballots simply won't be counted and it's a disappointment for people who take the time to fill out this really big ballot."
Instead of mailing your ballot, Roberts recommends dropping it off at a polling place on Tuesday.
On election day, any polling place, regardless of location, will accept your early ballot.
"As long as it's in Maricopa County, if you live in Maricopa County, they'll accept it," said Roberts.
If you don't have an early ballot, you'll need to fill one out in person at your home polling place.
That means having a drivers license or photo ID along with another form of identification, such as a utility bill or social security card.
Roberts estimates a heavy turnout on election day.
"Since it is a presidential election, the lines could be a little longer than they are on normal off years, so be prepared," said Roberts.
But even if those lines cause you to vote after the 7 p.m. deadline, Roberts says don't worry.
As you're in line by closing time, Roberts says you'll get to vote.
"If you get there at 6:59 and you're in line, you're going to be a good voter," said Roberts.
Copyright 2012 Scripps Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
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