How are vote by mail ballots counted?
In general, vote by mail ballots are counted the same as regular ballots cast at a polling place. Once it is determined that the signature and address on the vote by mail ballot return envelope matches the signature and address of the voter on his or her registration form, the ballot and the envelope are separated. The ballot is then placed anonymously with other ballots in order to preserve the voter’s right to secrecy (Elections Code 15006). If the right of a voter to cast a vote by mail ballot is challenged, and that challenge is upheld, the ballot remains in the envelope, is not counted, and the reason is indicated on the envelope (Elections Code 15007).
