What is a drop box closer?

State law requires that ballot drop boxes close at 8 p.m. Election Day. Most voters wait until Election Day to return their ballots, with drop boxes seeing the most traffic in the final few hours.  We need your help to provide customer service and assistance to voters using this last opportunity to return their ballots. Sign up and join us for a fun and fulfilling experience helping your neighbors experience the excitement and community of casting their ballots.

Why do we need volunteers?

King County Elections has expanded our ballot drop boxes to from 10 to 70 over the last few years. We need your help to fill over 75 volunteer shifts across King County to bolster our operational capacity and ensure ample coverage at all locations.

What have my co-workers said about their experience?

“I had a surprising amount of fun closing an Elections drop box and engaging with community members; who knew the operational aspect of civics would be so enjoyable!”

“Volunteering was a fun, easy, and short commitment that also contributed to making our election process more transparent.”

“A very rewarding experience to help my community vote, encourage voters, and be on the receiving end of so much gratitude from the community!”

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can volunteer?

Any King County career service or term-limited temporary employee can volunteer. King County employees who are running for public office in 2021 are not eligible to volunteer.

Do I need to have previous elections experience?

No previous elections experience is necessary. We will provide you with the proper training and all the information you need. You will also be stationed with Elections staff.

Will I receive training?

Yes. We will provide you with a link to a training video that will guide you through the whole process.

Will King County Elections staff be at the drop box with me?

Yes. Elections staff will be stationed with you at the drop box.

How do I become a volunteer?

Complete the sign up form with your name, phone number and email address. You will receive a confirmation email with training information.

Can I choose a drop box that is located near my home or work?

Yes. You can choose to sign up for any drop box open for the election.

How long will I be at the drop box?

Please plan to be at your drop box location from approximately 6:00 p.m. until just after 8:00 p.m.

What should I wear?

Check the weather forecast and dress appropriately with comfortable shoes as you be will be standing most of the time. We will provide you with a King County Elections apron and safety vest identifying you as an Elections representative. We can provide rain ponchos if needed, but we encourage you to check the weather forecast when you plan your night.

Can I wear campaign buttons, campaign t-shirts or anything else indicating my support for a specific candidate, campaign or political party?

No. As an elections representative, you may not wear anything that can be perceived as electioneering. This includes, but is not limited to, candidate t-shirts, campaign stickers, campaign buttons, or any other political symbols.

Will there be restrooms and parking at the ballot drop box locations?

Every drop box location is unique and we will provide you with as much information as we can regarding available bathrooms and parking. We just ask that when parking your vehicle, you do not park in a space directly in front of the ballot drop box. We want to leave those spaces for voters to have easy access on Election Night.

Can I take selfies or pictures while I’m volunteering?

Absolutely. Voting is a memorable experience for many and we want you to have fun.

Share your Election Day pictures using the hashtag  (#kcvotes) and tag King County Elections (@kcelections on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram)!

Will I be expected to answer questions from the media or observers while I’m volunteering?

No. Please direct any media and observer questions to the Elections staff member at your drop box.

Can I apply my volunteer hours to other things, such as community service or school credits?

You would need to check with the requirements for those programs.

What if I can’t make it?

If your schedule changes and you are unable to fulfill your volunteer duties, please let us know 24 hours prior to election night.

Is there anything else I need to do after my volunteer assignment ends?

We will send you a survey asking for your input to help us improve our drop box volunteer program.

Questions?

Contact Elections Services at election.services@kingcounty.gov or 206-296-1565.