Renew your postal vote
Postal renewal questions and answers
Why have I been asked to reapply for my postal vote?
The law has changed. Postal votes now only last for three years. If you applied before 30 January 2024, you must reapply by 31 January 2026 to keep voting by post.
I don’t know when I applied or whether my postal vote will expire on 31 January 2026. How can I find out?
We will be contacting affected electors directly in November to let them know if their postal vote is expiring on 31 January 2026. You don’t need to contact us.
How do I reapply?
The quickest way is online via the GOV.UK website.
You’ll need your date of birth, National Insurance number, and a photo or scan of your handwritten signature.
I can’t apply online – what should I do?
You can request a paper application form by emailing elecreg@swindon.gov.uk or by calling 01793 464601.
I’ve received an email about reapplying – is it genuine?
Emails from Swindon Borough Council’s Electoral Services will come from: swindon.elections@notifications.service.gov.uk
The subject will be ‘Action Required to Continue to Vote by Post’.
If unsure, do not click links and contact Electoral Services directly by emailing elecreg@swindon.gov.uk.
What if I don’t reapply?
If you don’t reapply by the deadline, we will contact you on 10 February 2026 to confirm that your postal vote has been cancelled.
You’ll still be able to:
- vote in person at your polling station (bring photo ID)
- apply for a new postal vote at any time before 5.00pm, 11 working days before an election
I don’t want to vote by post anymore – what should I do?
You can let your postal vote expire, or cancel it early by emailing elecreg@swindon.gov.uk with your full name, address and a copy of your signature.