What is early voting for elections and when it starts in every US state

This story is part of Elections 2020, CNET’s coverage of the run-up to voting in November.

Early in-person voting will be one option for the 2020 election this year as a result of adjustments made during the coronavirus pandemic for those who prefer to avoid going to the poll places on Election Day amid fears that voting in person could help spread COVID-19. Fortunately, many states are offering early voting as an option, as well as voting by mail and absentee voting. The decision to allow early voting and voting by mail is a way for states to help keep Americans safe.

Some states, like Pennsylvania, are letting residents vote as early as mid-September — however, other states, like Alabama, will not offer early voting this year. Note that some counties in your state may not offer early voting even if it isn’t organized on a state level, so it’s best to check with your local election office.

Also, if you’re not sure if you’re registered to vote, here’s how to check. Here’s when early voting starts for your state.

Now playing:
Watch this:

Trump’s top cybersecurity official: Mail-in ballots are…

25:16