In my prior diary entry, I described how to use FedEx at reduced rates to mail in an absentee ballot from abroad. In this entry, I am addressing how to get a Federal Write-in Absentee Ballot available immediately online.
Not everyone still has this option since certain state deadlines must be (or have been) met, including state deadlines for registration and for ballot requests. However, most states allow you to fax in your request by the deadline, so long as it is followed up by a mailed-in hard copy. VoteFromAbroad does have all you need to know to find out if you qualify. That information is readily available online through www.votefromabroad.org . There is a FAQ at http://www.votefromabroad.org/... .
Of note, the FWAB is only accepted if it is mailed in from outside the US, unless one is a member of the Uniformed Services or Merchant Marines. Some states will accept a courier service waybill (such as from FedEx). However, some states (such as Alabama) will not accept courier service at all. I myself found that Wisconsin requires the absentee ballot to be in an envelope which is then countersigned by another American citizen, who must him/herself have a registered US address.
This can be complicated, given the variances state-by-state, but the VFA website wizard will take you through the steps.
If you do not have a solid plan yet for how to cast your vote, please check with that site as a resource. There may well still be time. Time may also be running out. I'll keep an eye on this entry for questions, corrections, and suggestions.
