Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-0.5 Repealed
As added by P.L.266-2013, SEC.4. Repealed by P.L.278-2019, SEC.122.
Ind. Code ch. 3-11.5-4
Ind. Code ch. 3-11.5-4
in effectInd. Code § 3-11.5-4-1 Circuit court clerk records and certifications
Sec. 1. Each circuit court clerk shall do the following:
(1) Keep a separate absentee ballot record for each precinct in the county.
(2) This subdivision applies to a county in which the county voter registration office prepares a certified list of all voters registered to vote in each precinct in the county under IC 3-7-29-1. Either:
(A) certify to each inspector or the inspector's representative, at the time that the ballots and supplies are delivered under IC 3-11-3, the names of the voters:
(i) to whom absentee ballots were sent or who marked ballots in person; and
(ii) whose ballots have been received by the county election board under IC 3-11-10; or
(B) provide a certified list of voters that have been marked to designate the names of the voters described in clause (A).
(3) This subdivision applies to a county that has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6 or is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1. Certify at the time the county voter registration office downloads information to an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(c), the names of the voters:
(A) to whom absentee ballots were sent or who marked ballots in person; and
(B) whose ballots have been received by the county election board under IC 3-11-10.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.78; P.L.271-2013, SEC.26; P.L.76-2014, SEC.45; P.L.157-2019, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-2 Recast of certain ballots
Sec. 2. (a) This section applies to a voter voting by an absentee ballot that:
(1) is defective and ordered corrected under IC 3-11-2-16;
(2) includes a candidate for election to office who:
(A) ceases to be a candidate; and
(B) is succeeded by a candidate selected under IC 3-13-1 or IC 3-13-2; or
(3) is presented and surrendered at:
(A) the office of the circuit court clerk;
(B) the office of the board of elections and registration;
(C) a satellite office of a board established under IC 3-11-10-26.3; or
(D) a vote center established as a satellite office under IC 3-11-18.1-4(15);
in a sealed envelope and signed by the voter containing an absentee ballot previously mailed to the voter with a request by the voter for a replacement absentee ballot under this section to cast at the office or vote center.
(b) Through the last day before the election day, an absentee voter may recast the ballot during the period specified by IC 3-11-10-26. To obtain a replacement ballot, the absentee voter must present a written request to the county election board for a replacement ballot. The voter may submit the written request to the county election board by electronic mail. However, in a primary election, if an application has been submitted to the county by or for a voter requesting the ballot of a political party, the voter may not change the choice of the voter's party when requesting a replacement ballot unless the county determines, based on the application of the voter, that the voter was issued an incorrect party ballot by the county.
(c) Upon receiving a written request under subsection (b), the circuit court clerk shall do the following:
(1) Place the written request with the absentee voter's original ballots.
(2) Mark "canceled" on the original set of ballots.
(3) Preserve the original ballots with other defective ballots.
(4) Deliver a new set of ballots to the absentee voter.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.3-1995, SEC.117; P.L.109-2021, SEC.52; P.L.240-2025, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-3 Rejection of absentee ballots deposited in drop box not under control of county election board
Sec. 3. In accordance with IC 3-11-10-24, a county election board shall reject an absentee ballot deposited in a drop box or other container or location that is not under the physical control and supervision of the county election board when the ballot is deposited.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.109-2021, SEC.53.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-3.5 Absentee ballot of voter required to present additional information; procedure
Sec. 3.5. (a) Upon receipt of an absentee ballot from a voter required to provide additional information to the county voter registration office under IC 3-7-33-4.5 or IC 3-7-33-4.7, the county election board shall contact the county voter registration office to determine if the additional information has been filed with the office by the voter.
(b) If the voter has filed the information with the county voter registration office, the county election board shall add a notation to the application indicating that the required information has been filed and that the absentee ballot may be counted if the ballot otherwise complies with this article.
(c) If the voter has not filed the information with the county voter registration office, the county election board shall add a notation on the application filed by a voter described under subsection (b) and on the envelope provided under this chapter reading substantially as follows:
"ABSENTEE BALLOT COUNTERS: AS OF (insert date absentee ballot application approved) THIS VOTER WAS REQUIRED TO FILE ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTATION WITH THE COUNTY VOTER REGISTRATION OFFICE BEFORE THIS BALLOT MAY BE COUNTED. CHECK THE POLL LIST AND COUNTY ELECTION BOARD CERTIFICATION TO SEE IF THE VOTER HAS FILED THIS INFORMATION. IF NOT, PROCESS AS A PROVISIONAL BALLOT IF THIS BALLOT OTHERWISE COMPLIES WITH INDIANA LAW.".
As added by P.L.109-2021, SEC.54. Amended by P.L.65-2024, SEC.28.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-4 Treatment of ballot found without genuine signature
Sec. 4. If a county election board finds that the signature on a ballot envelope or transmitted affidavit is not genuine, the board shall write upon the ballot envelope the words "The county election board has found the signature of this voter is not genuine. This ballot is subject to IC 3-11.5-4-13.5 or IC 3-11.5-4-13.6.".
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.79; P.L.109-2021, SEC.55.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-5 Ballot with signature; comparison of signatures; treatment of ballot with genuine signature, disputed signature
Sec. 5. (a) Upon receipt of the absentee ballot and not later than election day, the county election board, or the absentee board members in the office of the circuit court clerk, shall compare the signature of the voter on the absentee ballot application, or, if there is no application, with the signature on the electronic poll book, with the signature on:
(1) the voter's absentee ballot envelope or ballot secrecy waiver form; or
(2) the computerized list, if there is no envelope or ballot secrecy waiver form.
(b) If a county election board unanimously finds that the signature on a ballot envelope or transmitted affidavit is genuine, the board shall enclose immediately the accepted and unopened ballot envelope, together with the voter's application for the absentee ballot, in a large or carrier envelope. If the county election board does not unanimously determine that the signature on a ballot envelope is genuine, the board shall also write on the ballot envelope described in subsection (c) or the transmitted affidavit from a voter under IC 3-11-4-6, the words "SIGNATURE DISPUTED". The board shall enclose in the same carrier envelope all absentee ballot envelopes and applications for the same precinct.
(c) The envelope shall be securely sealed and endorsed with the name and official title of the circuit court clerk and the following words: "This envelope contains an absentee ballot and must be opened only on election day under IC 3-11.5.".
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.80; P.L.64-2014, SEC.62; P.L.157-2019, SEC.29; P.L.109-2021, SEC.56; P.L.227-2023, SEC.113.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-6 Secure keeping ballots; scanning ballots before election day; ballots may not be tabulated before election day
Sec. 6. (a) Each circuit court clerk shall keep all accepted ballot envelopes securely sealed in the clerk's office until the ballot envelopes are opened by absentee ballot counters in accordance with this chapter.
(b) A county election board may scan a voted absentee ballot card using an optical scan ballot scanner not earlier than seven (7) calendar days before election day. However, the county election board:
(1) may not tabulate the ballots before election day; and
(2) shall retract a previously scanned absentee ballot card of a voter who is later found disqualified or whose ballot may not be counted for any other reason under this title.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.278-2019, SEC.123; P.L.108-2021, SEC.10.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-7 Acceptance of delivery of absentee ballots at post office
Sec. 7. Not later than 6 p.m. on election day each circuit court clerk, or an agent of the clerk, shall visit the appropriate post office to accept delivery of absentee envelopes.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.227-2023, SEC.114.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-8 Applicability; certification of voter names; delivery of certificates
Sec. 8. (a) This section does not apply to a county that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1;
if the electronic poll book used at a polling place or vote center is immediately updated to indicate the county received, not later than noon on election day, an absentee ballot from a voter.
(b) Each county election board shall certify the names of voters:
(1) to whom absentee ballots were sent or who marked ballots in person; and
(2) whose ballots have been received by the board under this chapter;
after the certification under section 1 of this chapter and not later than noon on election day.
(c) The county election board shall have:
(1) the certificates described in subsection (b); and
(2) the circuit court clerk's certificates for voters who have registered and voted under IC 3-7-36-14;
delivered to the precinct election boards at their respective polls on election day by couriers appointed under section 22 of this chapter.
(d) The certificates shall be delivered not later than 3 p.m. on election day.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.81; P.L.271-2013, SEC.27; P.L.76-2014, SEC.46; P.L.169-2015, SEC.136.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-9 Applicability; marking of poll list indication of absentee voters; disposition of certificate materials
Sec. 9. (a) This section does not apply to a county that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1;
if the electronic poll book used at a polling place or vote center is immediately updated to indicate that the county received, not later than noon on election day, an absentee ballot from a voter.
(b) Upon delivery of the certificates under section 8 of this chapter to a precinct election board, the inspector shall do the following in the presence of the poll clerks:
(1) Mark the poll list.
(2) Attach the certificates of voters who have registered and voted under IC 3-7-36-14 to the poll list.
(3) Indicate next to the voter's name on either:
(A) the certificate prepared under section 1 of this chapter; or
(B) the certificate delivered under section 8 of this chapter;
that the voter has voted in person at the polls if a person listed in either certificate has voted in person at the polls.
The poll clerks shall sign the statement printed on the certificate indicating that the inspector marked the poll list and attached the certificates under this section in the presence of both poll clerks to indicate that the absentee ballot of the voter has been received by the county election board.
(c) The inspector shall then deposit:
(1) the certificate prepared under section 1 of this chapter, if any was provided by the circuit court clerk;
(2) the certificate prepared under section 8 of this chapter; and
(3) any challenge affidavit executed by a qualified person under section 15 of this chapter;
in an envelope in the presence of both poll clerks.
(d) The inspector shall seal the envelope. The inspector and each poll clerk shall then sign a statement printed on the envelope indicating that the inspector or poll clerk has complied with the requirements of this chapter governing the marking of the poll list and certificates.
(e) The couriers shall immediately return the envelope described in subsection (c) to the county election board. Upon delivering the envelope to the county election board, each courier shall sign a statement printed on the envelope indicating that the courier has not opened or tampered with the envelope since the envelope was delivered to the courier.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.82; P.L.225-2011, SEC.73; P.L.271-2013, SEC.28; P.L.76-2014, SEC.47; P.L.169-2015, SEC.137; P.L.157-2019, SEC.30.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-10 Time for receipt of ballots; treatment
Sec. 10. (a) This subsection applies to a county that:
(1) uses a paper list of voters provided under IC 3-7-29-2;
(2) has not adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); and
(3) is not a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
Subject to IC 3-10-8-7.5, IC 3-12-1-17, and section 7 of this chapter, absentee ballots received by mail (or by fax or electronic mail under IC 3-11-4-6) after 6 p.m. on election day are considered as arriving too late and may not be counted.
(b) This subsection applies to a county described in subsection (a). An absentee ballot that is returned to the county election board between noon and 6 p.m. on election day may not be reviewed or counted under this article until all of the following have occurred:
(1) The polls in each precinct have closed.
(2) The poll list for the precinct with an absentee ballot that has not been counted has been returned to the county election board.
(3) The county election board confirms whether the voter cast a ballot at the polls on election day.
(c) This subsection applies to a county that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
Subject to IC 3-10-8-7.5 and IC 3-12-1-17, absentee ballots received by mail or by fax or electronic mail under IC 3-11-4 after 6 p.m. on election day are considered as arriving too late and may not be counted.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.83; P.L.198-2005, SEC.12; P.L.64-2014, SEC.63; P.L.109-2021, SEC.57.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-11 Opening absentee ballots; procedure; signature comparison
Sec. 11. (a) Upon receipt of the absentee ballot and not later than election day, the county election board shall examine the signature on the absentee ballot.
(b) This subsection applies to a county that has not adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1) or is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1. Except as provided in subsection (c), (d), or (e), at any time after the couriers return the certificate under section 9 of this chapter, absentee ballot counters appointed under section 22 of this chapter, in the presence of the county election board, shall, except for a ballot rejected under section 13 of this chapter:
(1) open the outer or carrier envelope containing an absentee ballot envelope and application;
(2) announce the absentee voter's name; and
(3) compare the signature upon the ballot application or, if there is no application, with the signature on the electronic poll book with the signature upon the:
(A) voter's absentee ballot envelope; or
(B) if there is no envelope, computerized list.
(c) This subsection applies to a county (other than a county described in subsection (d) or (e)) that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1;
and has not updated the computerized list to reflect absentee ballots received on election day. After the receipt and processing required under sections 12 and 12.5 of this chapter to process an absentee ballot from a voter and after ensuring that the electronic poll books used in each polling place or vote center have been updated to reflect all absentee ballots received by the county not later than 12:01 a.m. on election day, the absentee ballot counters shall, at any time after 6:00 a.m. on election day, in a central counting location designated by the county election board, count the absentee ballot votes cast for each candidate, for each office, and on each public question.
(d) This subsection applies to a county having a consolidated city, if the county:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
After the receipt and processing required under sections 12 and 12.5 of this chapter to process an absentee ballot from a voter and after ensuring that the electronic poll books used in each polling place or vote center have been updated to reflect all absentee ballots received by the county not later than 12:01 a.m. on election day, the absentee ballot counters shall, at any time after 6:00 a.m. on election day, in a central counting location designated by the county election board, count the absentee ballot votes cast for each candidate, for each office, and on each public question.
(e) This subsection applies to a county other than a county having a consolidated city, if the county election board has adopted a resolution by the unanimous vote of the entire membership of the board to use procedures set forth in this subsection, and the county:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
After the receipt and processing required under section 12 of this chapter to process an absentee ballot from a voter and after ensuring that the electronic poll books used in each polling place or vote center have been updated to reflect all absentee ballots received by the county not later than 12:01 a.m. on election day, the absentee ballot counters shall, at any time after 6:00 a.m. on election day, in a central counting location designated by the county election board, count the absentee ballot votes cast for each candidate, for each office, and on each public question.
(f) A resolution adopted under subsection (e) may be repealed or amended only by the unanimous vote of the entire membership of the county election board.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.84; P.L.258-2013, SEC.84; P.L.76-2014, SEC.48; P.L.169-2015, SEC.138; P.L.100-2018, SEC.16; P.L.210-2018, SEC.2; P.L.157-2019, SEC.31; P.L.278-2019, SEC.124; P.L.109-2021, SEC.58; P.L.227-2023, SEC.115.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-11.5 Processing ballots before election day in vote center counties and counties using electronic poll books; procedure; adopting option by county election board
Sec. 11.5. (a) This section applies to a county if the county election board has adopted a resolution by the unanimous vote of the entire membership of the board to use the procedures set forth in this section, and the county:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
(b) Absentee ballot counters appointed under section 22 of this chapter shall, in the presence of the county election board, process an absentee ballot of a voter as follows:
(1) Beginning at noon, three (3) days before the election for any absentee ballot that has been received by the county election board not later than noon, four (4) days before the election.
(2) Beginning at noon, two (2) days before the election for any absentee ballot that has been received by the county election board any time after noon, four (4) days before the election and not later than noon, three (3) days before the election.
(3) Beginning at noon, the day before the election for any absentee ballot that has been received by the county election board any time after noon, three (3) days before the election and not later than noon, two (2) days before the election.
(c) A team of absentee ballot counters shall do all of the following:
(1) Conduct a review of the absentee ballot required by section 12(a) through 12(c) of this chapter. Section 12(e) and 12(f) of this chapter apply to this subdivision.
(2) Determine in accordance with section 13 of this chapter if the absentee ballot cannot be counted.
(3) Open the envelope containing the absentee ballot in a manner that does not deface or destroy the affidavit and take out each ballot enclosed without unfolding or permitting the ballot to be unfolded or examined.
(4) Determine if the absentee ballot has been endorsed with the initials of:
(A) the two (2) members of the absentee voter board in the office of the clerk of the circuit court under IC 3-11-4-19 or IC 3-11-10-27;
(B) the two (2) members of the absentee voter board visiting the voter under IC 3-11-10-25; or
(C) the two (2) appointed members of the county election board or the members' designated representatives under IC 3-11-4-19.
(d) If the team of absentee ballot counters determines the absentee ballot can be counted under this chapter, the absentee ballot must be stored in an envelope or container kept for ballots of the same precinct. The envelope or container must:
(1) have the name of the precinct written on the envelope or container; and
(2) be stored in a secure manner under dual lock controlled by both appointed members of the county election board.
(e) An absentee ballot determined to be counted under this section shall be tabulated according to this article on election day in accordance with section 11 of this chapter.
(f) A member of the county election board may challenge a voter under section 15(c) of this chapter when a team of absentee ballot counters is processing an absentee ballot under this section.
As added by P.L.108-2021, SEC.11.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-12 Opening envelope containing absentee ballot; procedure; processing certain ballots as provisional ballots
Sec. 12. (a) Notwithstanding any provision to the contrary in this chapter, in a county described by subsection (e) or (f), the signature review process described in this section may be conducted at any time after receipt of an absentee ballot by the county election board.
(b) If the absentee ballot counters find under section 11 of this chapter that:
(1) the affidavit is properly executed;
(2) the signatures correspond;
(3) the absentee voter is a qualified voter of the precinct;
(4) the absentee voter is registered and is not required to file additional information with the county voter registration office under IC 3-7-33-4.5 or IC 3-7-33-4.7; and
(5) in case of a primary election, if the absentee voter has not previously voted, the absentee voter has executed the proper declaration relative to age and qualifications and the political party with which the absentee voter intends to affiliate;
the absentee ballot counters shall open the envelope containing the absentee ballots so as not to deface or destroy the affidavit and take out each ballot enclosed without unfolding or permitting a ballot to be unfolded or examined.
(c) If the absentee ballot counters find under subsection (b) that the voter has not filed the additional information required to be filed with the county voter registration office under IC 3-7-33-4.5 or IC 3-7-33-4.7, but that all of the other findings listed under subsection (b) apply, the absentee ballot shall be processed as a provisional ballot under IC 3-11.7.
(d) The absentee ballot counters shall then deposit the ballots in a secure envelope with the name of the precinct set forth on the outside of the envelope. After the absentee ballot counters or the county election board has made the findings described in subsection (b) or section 13 of this chapter for all absentee ballots of the precinct, the absentee ballot counters shall remove all the ballots deposited in the envelope under this section for counting under IC 3-11.5-5 or IC 3-11.5-6.
(e) This subsection applies to a county having a consolidated city. For an absentee ballot cast in person by a voter under IC 3-11-10-25, IC 3-11-10-26, or IC 3-11-10-26.3, the absentee ballot counters may, but are not required to, make the findings required under subsection (b)(2) or (b)(3).
(f) This subsection applies to a county:
(1) that does not have a consolidated city; and
(2) when the county election board has adopted a resolution by the unanimous vote of its entire membership to use the procedures set forth in this subsection.
For an absentee ballot cast in person by a voter under IC 3-11-10-25, IC 3-11-10-26, or IC 3-11-10-26.3, the absentee ballot counters may, but are not required to, make the findings required under subsection (b)(2) or (b)(3).
(g) A resolution adopted under subsection (f) may be repealed or amended only by the unanimous vote of the entire membership of the county election board.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.209-2003, SEC.169; P.L.221-2005, SEC.97; P.L.225-2011, SEC.74; P.L.100-2018, SEC.17; P.L.210-2018, SEC.3; P.L.65-2024, SEC.29.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-12.5 Opening absentee ballots by machine
Sec. 12.5. (a) Notwithstanding section 12(b) of this chapter and subject to subsection (b), absentee ballot envelopes may be opened by machine instead of by the absentee ballot counters. For purposes of certification of voting systems under this article, a machine, the only function of which is the opening of envelopes, is not considered to be a voting system or part of a voting system.
(b) After making the applicable findings under section 12(b) of this chapter, the absentee ballot counters shall take out each ballot enclosed in an envelope opened under subsection (a) without unfolding or permitting a ballot to be unfolded or examined. The absentee ballots shall then continue to be processed as provided under section 12 and other applicable provisions of this chapter.
As added by P.L.278-2019, SEC.125. Amended by P.L.109-2021, SEC.59.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-13 Rejection of absentee ballots
Sec. 13. (a) If the absentee ballot counters find under section 11 of this chapter that any of the following applies, the ballots shall be rejected:
(1) The affidavit is insufficient or that the ballot has not been endorsed with the initials of:
(A) the two (2) members of the absentee voter board in the office of the clerk of the circuit court under IC 3-11-4-19 or IC 3-11-10-27;
(B) the two (2) members of the absentee voter board visiting the voter under IC 3-11-10-25; or
(C) the two (2) appointed members of the county election board or their designated representatives under IC 3-11-4-19.
A scantron complies with the endorsement requirement under this subdivision if the scantron is endorsed with the initials of two (2) members under clause (A), (B), or (C). An affidavit that does not contain an accurate date of signature is insufficient for purposes of this subdivision.
(2) The signatures do not correspond or there is no signature, and the signature mismatch or missing signature is not cured by the deadline established under section 13.5 or 13.6 of this chapter.
(3) The absentee voter is not a qualified voter in the precinct.
(4) The absentee voter has voted in person at the election.
(5) The absentee voter has not registered.
(6) The ballot is open or has been opened and resealed. This subdivision does not permit an absentee ballot transmitted by fax or electronic mail under IC 3-11-4-6 to be rejected because the ballot was sealed in the absentee ballot envelope by the individual designated by the circuit court to receive absentee ballots transmitted by fax or electronic mail.
(7) The ballot envelope contains more than one (1) ballot of any kind for the same office or public question.
(8) In case of a primary election, if the absentee voter has not previously voted, the voter failed to execute the proper declaration relative to age and qualifications and the political party with which the voter intends to affiliate.
(9) The ballot has been challenged and there is no absentee ballot application from the voter to support the absentee ballot.
(b) Subsection (c) applies whenever a voter with a disability is unable to make a signature:
(1) on an absentee ballot application that corresponds to the voter's signature in the records of the county voter registration office; or
(2) on an absentee ballot security envelope that corresponds with the voter's signature:
(A) in the records of the county voter registration office; or
(B) on the absentee ballot application.
(c) The voter may request that the voter's signature or mark be attested to by any of the following:
(1) The absentee voter board under section 22 of this chapter.
(2) A member of the voter's household.
(3) An individual serving as attorney in fact for the voter.
(d) An attestation under subsection (c) provides an adequate basis for the absentee ballot counters to determine that a signature or mark complies with subsection (a)(2).
(e) If the absentee ballot counters are unable to agree on a finding described under this section or section 12 of this chapter, the county election board shall make the finding.
(f) This subsection does not apply to an absentee ballot rejected under this section based on a finding that the voter's signature on the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit does not correspond to any signature on the voter's absentee ballot application. The absentee ballot counters or county election board shall issue a certificate to a voter whose ballot has been rejected under this section if the voter appears in person before the board not later than 5 p.m. on election day. The certificate must state that the voter's absentee ballot has been rejected and that the voter may vote in person under section 21 of this chapter if otherwise qualified to vote.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.38-1999, SEC.53; P.L.126-2002, SEC.85; P.L.1-2003, SEC.6; P.L.14-2004, SEC.139; P.L.198-2005, SEC.13; P.L.194-2013, SEC.73; P.L.157-2019, SEC.32; P.L.109-2021, SEC.60; P.L.227-2023, SEC.116; P.L.153-2024, SEC.18; P.L.241-2025, SEC.18.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-13.5 Absentee ballot signature comparison; procedure; signature verification affidavit
Sec. 13.5. (a) This section applies to an absentee ballot where there is a finding that the voter's signature on the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit does not correspond to the signature on the voter's absentee ballot application or electronic poll book, or any signature by the voter maintained in the statewide voter registration system.
(b) If the absentee voter board, the absentee ballot counters, or the county election board determine that a voter's signature on the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit does not correspond to:
(1) the voter's signature on the absentee ballot application;
(2) the voter's signature on the electronic poll book; or
(3) any signature of the voter maintained in the statewide voter registration system;
the absentee ballot security envelope shall not be opened and the ballot shall not be counted.
(c) The absentee voter board, the absentee ballot counters, or the county election board shall write the date and cause of the mismatched signature on the face of the security envelope after completing the procedures set forth in this section.
(d) The county election board or board of elections and registration shall send a notice produced from the computerized system established by IC 3-7-26.3 to the voter of the determination of the absentee voter board, absentee ballot counters, county election board, or board of elections and registration that an absentee ballot signature mismatch has occurred. The county election board shall:
(1) either:
(A) hand deliver the notice; or
(B) mail the notice by first class United States mail;
to the registration address of the voter;
(2) send the notice by electronic mail to the voter if an electronic mail address for the voter is available; and
(3) call the voter by telephone to provide notice of the signature mismatch determination, if a telephone number for the voter is available;
not later than the close of business two (2) business days after the signature mismatch determination by the county occurs. If a county election board is unable to produce the notice from the computerized list, the county election board may send the notice provided by the election division.
(e) If:
(1) the county election board does not provide the voter with the notice described in subsection (d) before the close of business two (2) business days after the signature mismatch is determined; and
(2) the voter learns that the notice described in subsection (d) should have been provided;
the voter or a representative of the voter may request the notice described in subsection (d) from the county election board or the election division.
(f) An absentee ballot sealed inside an absentee ballot security envelope affidavit with a signature mismatch shall be treated as a provisional ballot under IC 3-11.7. The signature mismatch may be cured under this section and the absentee ballot counted if the ballot is otherwise valid.
(g) A voter notified by the county election board or board of elections and registration under subsection (d) must verify the voter's signature under this section on:
(1) the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit;
(2) the absentee ballot application or electronic poll book; or
(3) both;
by filing an affidavit with the county election board or board of elections and registration not later than noon, prevailing local time, eight (8) days after election day.
(h) The notice under subsection (d) is subject to IC 3-5-4-8 and must contain the following information:
(1) A statement from the county election board or board of elections and registration notifying the voter that the county has determined that a signature mismatch has occurred between the signature of the voter on the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit and the voter's signature on the absentee ballot application or electronic poll book, or any signature made by the voter on file in the statewide voter registration system.
(2) A statement that the voter's absentee ballot will be rejected and not counted unless the voter cures the signature mismatch under this section by filing a signed signature verification affidavit with the county election board or board of elections and registration not later than noon, local prevailing time, eight (8) days after election day, and specifying the date on which the eighth day will fall.
(3) A signature line for the voter to print the voter's name and date and sign the signature verification affidavit.
(4) A statement that the signature verification affidavit must be:
(A) placed into a mailing envelope addressed to the county election board or board of elections and registration, and either mailed with sufficient postage or hand delivered to the board; or
(B) sent to the board by electronic mail or facsimile transmission.
(5) Information provided by the board setting forth the mailing address, electronic mail address, or facsimile number of the board.
(6) The name of the voter.
(i) The signature verification affidavit shall be prescribed by the election division under IC 3-5-4-8, shall be produced from the computerized list established under IC 3-7-26.3, must substantially be in the following form, and may be included on the same page as the notice and instructions:
SIGNATURE VERIFICATION AFFIDAVIT
I, [voter's name], am a registered voter of [voter's county of residence] County, State of Indiana. I declare under the penalties of perjury that I requested and returned an absentee ballot. I am a resident of the precinct in which I have voted (or I am entitled to vote in this precinct under Indiana law), and I am the person whose name appears on the absentee ballot envelope. I understand that if I commit or attempt any fraud in connection with voting, or if I aid or abet fraud or attempt to aid or abet fraud in connection with voting, I may be convicted of a felony punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or both. I understand that my failure to sign this statement means my absentee ballot will not be counted.
___________________
Voter's Signature
____________________
Voter's Printed Name
________________________
Voter's Registration Address
If there is a reason why your signature does not match, please explain here. Examples include age or disability of the voter or execution of the absentee affidavit by the person holding the voter's power of attorney or any person assisting a voter under IC 3-11-4-2(b) or a member of the voter's immediate household or power of attorney attesting to the voter's signature on the absentee by mail return envelope under IC 3-11.5-4-13(c). The computerized list shall preprint the name of the voter in the appropriate parts of the affidavit.
(j) The county election board or board of elections and registration may not reject an absentee ballot with a nonconforming security envelope signature if each of the following conditions are satisfied:
(1) The voter delivers:
(A) in person;
(B) by mail;
(C) by facsimile transmission; or
(D) by electronic mail;
a signature verification affidavit signed by the voter and the county election board or board of elections and registration receives the affidavit not later than noon, prevailing time, eight (8) days after election day, or the voter, before the close of the polls on election day, completes and files a signature verification affidavit with the inspector or other chief election official of the precinct or vote center within the county. The inspector or vote center official shall forward the signature verification statement to the county election board or board of elections and registration with the other materials from the precinct. The voter may deliver a signature verification affidavit signed by the voter to an absentee voter board at a circuit court clerk's office or satellite location during the period of early voting described in IC 3-11-10-26.
(2) Upon receipt of the signature verification statement, the county election board or county board of elections and registration shall open the provisional ballot envelope to access the voter's absentee ballot security envelope to:
(A) compare the signature on the verification statement with the signature on the affidavit of the ballot envelope; or
(B) if the ballot is for a military or overseas voter who transmitted the ballot by facsimile or electronic mail, compare the affidavit found under IC 3-11-4-6(h) and, if applicable, the signature found in the voter's registration record or the signature on the absentee ballot application.
(k) If, upon conducting the comparison of signatures, the board determines that the signatures match and no other challenges have been made to the ballot, the board shall open the absentee ballot security envelope and add the votes cast on the ballot to the tally for the voter's precinct.
(l) A ballot may not be removed from the security envelope until the time for processing ballots. If, upon conducting the comparison of the signatures under this section, the election officials determine that the signatures are mismatched, the voter's absentee ballot security envelope may not be opened and the ballot shall not be counted. The election officials shall write "this ballot has been rejected because of a mismatched signature" on the face of the security envelope. The absentee ballot security envelope must be resealed and the status of the rejected provisional ballot must be made under the "County Election Board Findings" on the affidavit.
(m) A mismatched absentee ballot security envelope is to be treated as a provisional ballot and is subject to the same confidentiality restrictions under IC 3-11.7-6-3.
(n) If the county election board or board of elections and registration determines that the signatures match, the board shall provide a copy of the statement to the county voter registration officer in any county where there is a separate board of registration. The voter registration officer shall then use the signature in the signature verification statement, even if returned untimely, to update the voter's signature in the voter's registration record.
As added by P.L.109-2021, SEC.61. Amended by P.L.153-2024, SEC.19.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-13.6 Absentee ballot signature comparison; missing signature; procedure; affidavit of unsigned ballot
Sec. 13.6. (a) This section applies to an absentee ballot where there is a finding that the voter's signature on the absentee ballot security envelope affidavit is missing and therefore does not correspond to the signature on the voter's absentee ballot application or electronic poll book.
(b) Section 13.5(c), 13.5(d), 13.5(e), and 13.5(g) of this chapter apply to this section.
(c) The county election board or board of elections and registration shall not reject an absentee ballot with a missing security envelope signature if any of the following conditions are satisfied and the county election board or board of elections and registration determines that the unsigned absentee ballot affidavit is truthful and otherwise in compliance with this section:
(1) The voter delivers:
(A) in person;
(B) by mail;
(C) by facsimile; or
(D) by electronic mail;
an affidavit of unsigned ballot that is signed by the voter, and the county election board or board of elections and registration receives the affidavit not later than noon eight (8) days after election day.
(2) Before the close of the polls on election day, the voter completes and files an affidavit of unsigned ballot with the inspector or other chief election official of the precinct or vote center within the county. The inspector or vote center official shall forward the affidavit of unsigned ballot to the county election board or board of elections and registration with the other materials from the precinct.
(3) The voter delivers an affidavit of unsigned ballot that is signed by the voter to an absentee voter board at a circuit court clerk's office or satellite location during the period of early voting described in IC 3-11-10-26.
(d) Upon receipt of the affidavit of unsigned ballot, the county election board or county board of elections and registration shall open the provisional ballot envelope to access the voter's absentee ballot security envelope to:
(1) compare the signature on the affidavit of unsigned ballot with the most recent signature on the voter's registration record in the statewide voter registration system, or the signature on the absentee ballot application; or
(2) if the ballot is for a military or overseas voter who transmitted the ballot by facsimile or electronic mail, compare the affidavit found under IC 3-11-4-6(h) and, if applicable, the signature found in the voter's registration record or the signature on the absentee ballot application.
(e) If, upon conducting the comparison of the signatures, the board determines that the signatures match and there are no other challenges that have been made to the ballot, the board shall open the absentee ballot security envelope and add the votes cast on the ballot to the tally for the voter's precinct.
(f) If, upon conducting the comparison of the signatures, the board determines that the signatures are mismatched, the voter's absentee ballot security envelope shall not be opened and the ballot may not be counted. The board shall write "this ballot has been rejected because of a mismatched signature" on the face of the security envelope. The provisional ballot envelope must be resealed and the status of the rejected ballot must be set forth under the "County Election Board Findings" on the affidavit.
(g) The affidavit of unsigned ballot shall be prescribed by the election division under IC 3-5-4-8, shall be produced from the computerized list established under IC 3-7-26.3, must be in substantially the following form, and may be included on the same page as the notice and instructions:
AFFIDAVIT OF UNSIGNED BALLOT
I, [voter's name], am a registered voter of [voter's county of residence] County, State of Indiana. I declare under the penalties of perjury that I requested and returned an absentee ballot. I am a resident of the precinct in which I have voted (or I am entitled to vote in this precinct under Indiana law), and I am the person whose name appears on the absentee ballot envelope. I understand that if I commit or attempt any fraud in connection with voting, or if I aid or abet fraud or attempt to aid or abet fraud in connection with voting, I may be convicted of a felony punishable by imprisonment, a fine, or both. I understand that my failure to sign this statement means that my absentee ballot will not be counted.
___________________
Voter's Signature
____________________
Voter's Printed Name
________________________
Voter's Registration Address
The computerized list shall preprint the name of the voter in the appropriate parts of the affidavit.
(h) The following instructions, prescribed by the election division under IC 3-5-4-8 and produced from the computerized list established under IC 3-7-26.3, shall accompany the affidavit of unsigned ballot in substantially the following form:
NOTICE FROM COUNTY ELECTION BOARD
REGARDING AN AFFIDAVIT OF UNSIGNED BALLOT FOR ABSENTEE BALLOT
Read these instructions carefully before completing the statement. Failure to follow these instructions may cause your ballot to not be counted.
(1) We have determined that your signature is missing on your absentee ballot security envelope. To ensure that your absentee ballot will be counted, you must complete and return an affidavit of unsigned ballot.
(2) Your affidavit of unsigned ballot must be received by the county election board or board of elections and registration not later than noon, local prevailing time, eight (8) days after the election, with the statement specifying the day on which the eighth day after the election will fall.
(3) You must sign your name where specified on the affidavit of unsigned ballot.
(4) Place the affidavit of unsigned ballot into a mailing envelope addressed to your county election official. Mail, hand deliver, or have your completed affidavit delivered to the board. Be sure to include sufficient postage if mailed, and include the address of the county election board provided below.
(5) If you do not wish to send your affidavit of unsigned ballot by mail or have it hand delivered, you may submit your completed affidavit by electronic mail or facsimile transmission to the county election board using the following information provided by your county [insert county electronic mail address and facsimile number].
(6) Include your name on the affidavit.
(i) A ballot may not be removed from the security envelope until the time for processing the ballot.
(j) Except where clearly inapplicable under IC 3-11.7, an unsigned absentee ballot security envelope is to be treated as a provisional ballot and is subject to the same confidentiality restrictions under IC 3-11.7-6-3. The affidavit of unsigned ballot and the signature verification statement executed by the voter are confidential under IC 3-11.7-6-3.
As added by P.L.109-2021, SEC.62. Amended by P.L.153-2024, SEC.20.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-14 Rejected ballots; endorsement; processing and return
Sec. 14. (a) Each ballot rejected for any of the reasons prescribed by section 13 of this chapter shall, without being unfolded to disclose how the ballot is marked, be endorsed with the words: "Rejected (giving the reason or reasons for the rejection).".
(b) All rejected absentee ballots shall be enclosed and securely sealed in an envelope on which the absentee ballot counters shall write the words: "Rejected absentee ballots". The absentee ballot counters shall also identify the precinct and the date of the election on the envelope containing the rejected ballots.
(c) The rejected absentee ballots shall be returned to the same officer and in the same manner as prescribed by this title for the return and preservation of official ballots cast and uncast at the election.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-15 Challenge of absentee ballot at polls; procedure
Sec. 15. (a) Except as provided in subsection (c), the vote of an absentee voter may be challenged at the polls for the reason that the absentee voter is not a legal voter of the precinct where the ballot is being cast.
(b) Before the inspector prepares to mark the poll list to indicate that an absentee ballot cast by the voter has been received by the county election board according to a certificate delivered to the polls under section 1 or section 8 of this chapter, the inspector shall notify the challengers and the pollbook holders that the inspector is about to mark the poll list under this section. The inspector shall provide the challengers and pollbook holders with the name and address of each voter listed in the certificate so that the voter may be challenged under this article.
(c) This section applies to a county that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll list under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
The vote of an absentee ballot may be challenged for the reason that the absentee voter is not a legal voter of the precinct for which the absentee ballot was issued. Before the absentee ballot counters process an absentee ballot, the absentee ballot counters shall notify the county election board. A county election board member, or a representative designated by a county election board member, may challenge the absentee ballot under section 16 of this chapter.
(d) The challenge under this section must be determined using the procedures for counting a provisional ballot under IC 3-11.7.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.14-2004, SEC.140; P.L.271-2013, SEC.29; P.L.64-2014, SEC.64; P.L.169-2015, SEC.139.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-16 Absentee voter's application as affidavit; challenge procedure
Sec. 16. (a) If an absentee ballot is challenged under section 15 of this chapter, the absentee voter's application for an absentee ballot shall be considered as the affidavit required to be made by a voter when challenged at the polls while voting in person.
(b) Except as provided in subsection (c), the challenge procedure under this section is the same as though the ballot was cast by the voter in person.
(c) An absentee voter is not required to provide proof of identification.
(d) The absentee ballot cast by the challenged voter shall be counted if the county election board makes the findings required under IC 3-11.7-5.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.109-2005, SEC.10; P.L.164-2006, SEC.120; P.L.271-2013, SEC.30; P.L.76-2014, SEC.49.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-17 Absentee ballot of deceased voter
Sec. 17. (a) If proof is given to the absentee ballot counters that an absentee voter marked and forwarded an absentee ballot but died before election day, the ballot of the deceased voter shall be rejected under section 13 of this chapter and retained with the other rejected ballots under section 14 of this chapter.
(b) The casting of an absentee ballot by a deceased voter does not invalidate an election.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-18 Voting in person by absentee voter who has not returned absentee ballot
Sec. 18. (a) If a voter has not returned an absentee ballot, the voter may vote in person.
(b) However, if the voter has received an absentee ballot, before the voter may vote, the voter must return the ballot to the inspector. The absentee ballot shall be marked "canceled" and preserved with the rejected ballots.
(c) If the voter has requested but not received an absentee ballot, the voter may vote if the voter executes an affidavit affirming that the voter has not received an absentee ballot.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.194-2013, SEC.74; P.L.169-2015, SEC.140.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-19 Repealed
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Repealed by P.L.225-2011, SEC.93.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-20 Absentee voter wishing to vote in person after poll list is marked
Sec. 20. If a voter has marked and returned an absentee ballot, the voter may not vote in person except as provided in section 21 of this chapter.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.109-2021, SEC.63.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-21 Voter who has cast rejected absentee ballot appearing in person
Sec. 21. If an envelope containing a voter's absentee ballot has been marked "Rejected", and the voter appears in person at the precinct before the polls close, the voter may vote as any other voter voting in person if the voter presents the precinct election board with the certificate issued under section 13(f) of this chapter.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.1-2009, SEC.4; P.L.157-2019, SEC.33; P.L.227-2023, SEC.117.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-21.5 Rejected absentee ballots may not be opened; exception
Sec. 21.5. Rejected absentee ballots may not be opened, except on order of a court or the state recount commission.
As added by P.L.169-2015, SEC.141.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-22 County election board appointments for absentee vote processing; eligibility; service by candidate or candidate's relative
Sec. 22. (a) Except as provided in subsection (b), each county election board shall appoint:
(1) absentee voter boards;
(2) teams of absentee ballot counters; and
(3) teams of couriers;
consisting of two (2) voters of the county, one (1) from each of the two (2) political parties that have appointed members on the county election board.
(b) Notwithstanding subsection (a), a county election board:
(1) may appoint, by a unanimous vote of the board's members, only one (1) absentee ballot courier if the person appointed is a voter of the county; and
(2) shall not appoint teams of couriers, if the county:
(A) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(B) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
(c) An otherwise qualified person is eligible to serve on an absentee voter board or as an absentee ballot counter or a courier unless the person:
(1) is unable to read, write, and speak the English language;
(2) has any property bet or wagered on the result of the election;
(3) is a candidate to be voted for at the election except as an unopposed candidate for a city office, town office, township office, school board office, precinct committeeman, or state convention delegate; or
(4) is the spouse, parent, father-in-law, mother-in-law, child, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, grandparent, grandchild, brother, sister, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, uncle, aunt, nephew, or niece of a candidate or declared write-in candidate to be voted for at the election except as an unopposed candidate. This subdivision disqualifies a person whose relationship to the candidate is the result of birth, marriage, or adoption.
(d) A person who is a candidate to be voted for at the election or who is related to a candidate in a manner that would result in disqualification under subsection (c) may, notwithstanding subsection (c), serve as a member of an absentee voter board if:
(1) the candidate is seeking nomination or election to an office in an election district that does not consist of the entire county; and
(2) the county election board restricts the duties of the person as an absentee voter board member to performing functions that could have no influence on the casting or counting of absentee ballots within the election district.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.38-1999, SEC.54; P.L.176-1999, SEC.92; P.L.14-2000, SEC.6; P.L.14-2004, SEC.141; P.L.271-2013, SEC.31; P.L.76-2014, SEC.50; P.L.169-2015, SEC.142; P.L.109-2021, SEC.64.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-23 Political party notice of number of appointees; recommendations for appointments; when nonvoter permitted to serve as appointee; contract; lucrative office
Sec. 23. (a) Not later than noon fifty (50) days before election day, each county election board shall notify the county chairmen of the two (2) political parties that have appointed members on the county election board of the number of:
(1) absentee voter boards;
(2) teams of absentee ballot counters; and
(3) teams of couriers;
to be appointed under section 22 of this chapter.
(b) The county chairmen shall make written recommendations for the appointments to the county election board not later than forty-six (46) days before election day. The county election board shall make the appointments as recommended.
(c) If a county chairman fails to make any recommendations, then the county election board may appoint any voters of the county who comply with section 22 of this chapter.
(d) The county election board may permit an individual who is not a voter to serve as an absentee board member, other than a member of a board under IC 3-11-10-25, an absentee ballot counter, or a courier if the individual:
(1) satisfies the requirements under IC 3-6-6-39; and
(2) is approved by the unanimous vote of the entire membership of the county election board.
(e) An individual appointed to serve as an absentee board member, other than the member of a board under IC 3-11-10-25, an absentee ballot counter or a courier under subsection (d), while serving as an absentee ballot counter or courier:
(1) is not required to obtain an employment certificate under IC 22-2-18 (before its expiration on June 30, 2021); and
(2) is not subject to the limitations on time and duration of employment under IC 22-2-18 (before its expiration on June 30, 2021) or IC 22-2-18.1.
(f) When the county election board makes an appointment under this section and the individual accepts the appointment by swearing the oath of office required under this title, a contract is created between the county election board and the individual in which the county election board retains the services of the appointed individual as an independent contractor.
(g) For purposes of Article 2, Section 9 of the Constitution of the State of Indiana, the position of:
(1) member of an absentee voter board;
(2) member of an absentee ballot counter team; or
(3) member of a courier team;
is not a lucrative office.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.3-1995, SEC.118; P.L.38-1999, SEC.55; P.L.14-2004, SEC.142; P.L.74-2017, SEC.56; P.L.201-2017, SEC.33; P.L.147-2020, SEC.2; P.L.109-2021, SEC.65; P.L.153-2024, SEC.21; P.L.91-2026, SEC.2.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-23.5 Appointment of absentee ballot counters and couriers in Marion County
Sec. 23.5. (a) This section applies to a county having a consolidated city only if the county election board, by unanimous vote of its entire membership, adopts a resolution making this section applicable in the county.
(b) Notwithstanding section 23 of this chapter, an individual who satisfies all of the following may be appointed to serve as an absentee ballot counter or a courier:
(1) The individual is a citizen of the United States.
(2) The individual is registered to vote in Indiana.
(3) The individual is at least eighteen (18) years of age.
(4) The individual is appointed under the procedures described in section 23 of this chapter.
(c) An individual appointed under this section who serves as an absentee ballot counter is observed by registered voters of the county serving in bipartisan absentee ballot counter teams.
As added by P.L.278-2019, SEC.126.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-24 Applicability; poll list; inspector duties
Sec. 24. (a) This section does not apply to a county that:
(1) has adopted an order to use an electronic poll book under IC 3-7-29-6(a)(1); or
(2) is a vote center county under IC 3-11-18.1.
(b) This subsection does not apply if the circuit court clerk has provided a marked poll list under section 1(2)(B) of this chapter. In addition to the preparations described in IC 3-11-11-2, IC 3-11-13-27, or IC 3-11-14-16, the inspector shall:
(1) mark the poll list; and
(2) attach the certificates of voters who have registered and voted under IC 3-7-36-14 to the poll list;
in the presence of the poll clerks to indicate the voters of the precinct whose absentee ballots have been received by the county election board according to the certificate supplied under section 1 of this chapter.
(c) The poll clerks shall sign the statement printed on the certificate supplied under section 1 of this chapter indicating that the inspector:
(1) marked the poll list; and
(2) attached the certificates described in subsection (b)(2);
under this section in the presence of both poll clerks.
(d) The inspector shall retain custody of the certificate supplied under section 1 of this chapter until the certificate is returned under section 9 of this chapter.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Amended by P.L.126-2002, SEC.86; P.L.221-2005, SEC.98; P.L.271-2013, SEC.32; P.L.76-2014, SEC.51; P.L.169-2015, SEC.143; P.L.157-2019, SEC.34.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-25 Repealed
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Repealed by P.L.126-2002, SEC.93.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-26 Repealed
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Repealed by P.L.126-2002, SEC.93.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-27 Repealed
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2. Repealed by P.L.126-2002, SEC.93.
Ind. Code § 3-11.5-4-28 Report of vote count; certificate
Sec. 28. When all votes have been counted, the precinct election board shall prepare a certificate stating the number of votes that each candidate received for each office and the number of votes cast on each public question. The number of votes that each candidate and public question received shall be written in words and numbers. The board shall also prepare a memorandum of the total vote cast for each candidate and ensure that each member of the board receives a copy of the memorandum.
As added by P.L.3-1993, SEC.176 and P.L.19-1993, SEC.2.
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://iga.in.gov/laws/2026/ic/titles/3Fetched: 10/17/2026