Early voting starts this weekend. Here’s what you need to know.

October 25, 2019 Meaghan McGoldrick and Kelly Mena

Photo: Jason DeCrow/AP

What exactly is early voting?

Early voting is a part of the state’s newly passed election reforms. It starts this Saturday, Oct. 26, and will run through Sunday, Nov. 3. During that period, you can exercise your 26th Amendment right at one of 33 New York City public schools designated by the Board of Elections.

New York is the 39th state to implement an early voting system.

Where do I vote?

Good question. Your early voting poll site may be different from where you would normally vote on Election Day. Luckily, you can find out where to go — and when — here.

Am I registered to vote early?

Anyone who is currently registered to vote in New York State can vote early. Not sure if that’s you? You can check here. It only takes 30 seconds.

What is on the ballot?

Citywide elections this year include races for public advocate, Queens district attorney, Council District 45 in Brooklyn and five ballot referendums to amend the City Charter.

There will be five proposals on the ballot for charter revisions. Voters will get the chance to weigh in on ranked-choice voting, changes to the Civilian Complaint Review Board, rules for government ethics, a rainy-day fund for the city budget and a longer timetable for public input during the city’s land use process.

What if I can’t make it to vote early or on Election Day?

You’re not totally screwed… yet. Eligible New Yorkers who haven’t previously registered to vote may register for an absentee ballot in-person at a Board of Elections office up until Oct. 26. If you’re already a registered voter but need an absentee ballot, you can apply in person by Nov. 4, or mail an application for an absentee ballot to the Board of Elections before Oct. 29.

Anything else?

Yes.

Uber and Lyft both want you to vote. The two companies are offering rides to early voting poll sites citywide at a 50 percent discount.

To receive the discount, request a ride to your early voting polling place (which may differ from your Election Day polling place) and use the code NYCVOTES. The discount is for a single ride (one way) and is good for up to $5 off, while rides are available.