Absent voter renewal 2025
A change in the law now means that electors who vote by post and have a postal vote in place 'until further notice' or 'for the maximum period' must renew their postal votes from scratch every three years. Due to this change, we will be contacting postal voters who are affected to inform them that their postal vote is due to expire on 31 January 2026.
Some voters may receive a communication from us by email or text, directing you to re-apply on the Gov.UK web site.
Local government elections are due to take place in Newcastle-under-Lyme on 7 May 2026.
Please note: the earlier you renew your postal vote, the earlier we will be able to despatch your postal vote pack ahead of the election.
You can apply to vote by post online on the Gov.UK website.
What you will need
You will need to:
- provide your national insurance number
- provide your date of birth
- be able to upload a photo or scanned copy of your handwritten signature in black ink on plain white paper.
If you are unable to provide a signature or a consistent signature due to a disability or inability to read or write you can apply for a postal vote without giving your signature.
For more information and to find out how to apply in this way please contact the Electoral Services section.
What happens if you do not apply in time?
If you do not complete an application by 31 January 2026 the Electoral Registration Officer is required by law to cancel your postal vote and you will only be able to vote in person at a polling station until you successfully apply again.
To vote in person at a polling station you are required to supply eligible photographic ID.
Contact us
If you have any queries regarding the postal vote re-application please contact Electoral Services by email at electreg@newcastle-staffs.gov.uk or phone 01782 717717.