What Is Ballot Harvesting?

Ballot harvesting refers to the collection and delivery of completed absentee ballots by a third party on behalf of voters. This practice is especially useful for individuals who may face difficulties delivering their own ballots, such as the elderly, people with disabilities, or those living in remote areas. The goal is to ensure that these voters can participate in elections, even if they can’t physically reach a polling station or drop-off location.

With the rise of mail-in and absentee voting across the United States, ballot harvesting has become a point of discussion—and sometimes controversy—in election law. Understanding how it works and where it’s allowed is key to navigating modern voting processes.

How Ballot Harvesting Works

Absentee voting allows individuals to submit their votes by mail rather than in person. While some voters are able to mail or drop off their own absentee ballots, others may need assistance. Ballot harvesting occurs when a third party—often a family member, legal guardian, caregiver, or even a volunteer from a political organization—collects completed ballots and delivers them to a polling place or election office.

This can be particularly helpful for voters who:

• Lack access to reliable transportation
• Have mobility issues or disabilities
• Live in rural or remote areas where polling places are far away

The specific rules regarding ballot harvesting vary from state to state, and the legality of the practice has been the subject of debate, particularly in recent elections.