Town and Parishes – FAQs about Postal Vote re-applications

Please find below an update from Elections Team regarding postal votes applications.

Postal votes now last up to 3 years. Letters and application forms have been posted to anyone whose postal vote expires on 31 January 2026 so that they can re-apply.

Further information is on our webpage; https://www.northnorthants.gov.uk/elections-and-voting/re-applying-postal-vote

How do I re-apply for my postal vote?

Electors can re-apply for their postal vote online at www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote.

A QR code and website address is displayed prominently at the top of the letter.

Electors unable to re-apply for their postal vote online, can complete the Postal vote application enclosed with their letter and return it:

• via email to elections@northnorthants.gov.uk
• Post/hand deliver to our council offices in Kettering addressed to “Elections”
• No Reply Envelope is enclosed to save the council money on return postage.

Electors must not re-register themselves to vote unless there is a change of name, address or nationality.

How do I complete the application form?

Electors must provide:

• Their date of birth
• Their National Insurance number
• Their handwritten signature

If applying online, electors can upload a photo or scanned copy of their handwritten signature in black ink on plain white paper.

Electors can apply without a signature but need to explain why. We may send out a declaration form for completion so that we can proceed without a signature.

Cancellation of Postal Votes

Those that don’t re-apply by 31 January 2026, will have their postal vote cancelled.

Existing Postal Voters do not have to re-apply for their postal vote immediately to vote in any election. The deadline to re-apply is 31 January 2026.

 

Electors that are no longer a postal or proxy voter, must take an accepted photo ID to vote at a polling station or can reapply for a postal vote later on.

Electors can decide to cancel their own postal vote in writing (please include your full name, address and signature) by sending a letter to:

Electoral Services
North Northamptonshire Council
Bowling Green Road
Kettering
NN15 7QX

Annual canvass

Residents receiving a calling card or Canvass form need to confirm names and nationalities of all residents aged 16 or over at their property via options listed on their canvass form or emailing elections@northnorthants.gov.uk..

Responding to the Canvass Form is a separate process from registering to vote and re-applying for a postal vote.