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Apply for a postal vote

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Voting by post is an easy and convenient way of voting in elections. You do not need to give a reason for choosing to do this. Find out how to apply for a postal vote.

Apply for a postal vote

Download and fill in the Postal Vote application form. (PDF) [139KB]

Return your completed form:

  • by post to: Electoral Services, Guildford Borough Council, Millmead House, Millmead, Guildford, GU2 4BB
  • by email: electoralservices@guildford.gov.uk. If emailing your application form it must be sent as a clear, scanned email attachment. It must be signed by hand
  • by delivering it to the council offices in person.

The deadline to apply for a postal vote is by 5pm, 11 working days before polling day.

Signing your form is essential!

  • You must give your full name, address, date of birth and signature on the form.
  • We must have your signature and date of birth so we can check them against your original application, to confirm your identity.

Your personal information is separated from your ballot paper before it is looked at or counted, so giving this information will not affect the secrecy of your vote.

Signature problems

If you are unable to give a signature or sign in a consistent way, contact us to let us know.

When to apply

  • you can apply for a postal vote at any time during the year
  • you do not need to give a reason for wanting to vote by post
  • you must be eligible to vote

How long does a postal vote arrangement last?

You can vote by post:

  • permanently
  • for a specific time period
  • for a particular election/referendum.

Choosing where the ballot papers will be sent

Tell us on your application form where you want the ballot papers to be sent if this is different to the address where you're registered to vote, such as a university address or holiday home. Give the reason for your choice.

When are postal votes sent out?

Postal votes can only be sent out once the deadline to become a candidate has passed and the ballot papers have been produced and printed.

For specific dates as to when postal ballot packs will be sent out for an election/referendum, contact Electoral Services or check the timetable on the Forthcoming elections page.

Lost/spoiled ballot papers

If your postal vote ballot papers have been either:

  • lost
  • not received
  • spoiled

contact Electoral Services for a replacement. Do not throw your postal voting paperwork away until you have spoken to Electoral Services.

By law, we can only give replacement postal ballot papers from five working days before the day of poll.

Important notes for postal voters

Remember:

  • if you have a postal ballot paper for an election or referendum, you will not be able to vote at the polling station.
  • if you wish to cancel your postal vote, you need to confirm, in writing, the cancellation of your postal vote no later than 5pm, 11 working days prior to the date of the election/referendum.
  • if you change address, you will need to make a new application to vote by post - your voting preference will not be carried forward to your new address.