Postal Voters: Act Now! Deadline this January
South Norfolk and Broadland District Councils are urging all postal voters to take action immediately ahead of a major change in electoral law that could affect their residents’ ability to vote in future elections.
Under new rules introduced by the Elections Act 2022, postal votes are now valid for a maximum of three years. This means if you applied for a postal vote before 31 October 2023, you must reapply by 31 January 2026 to keep voting by post – including in the May 2026 elections.
The councils have written to around 37,000 affected residents and are urging them to respond immediately.
Cllr Daniel Elmer, Leader of South Norfolk Council, said:
Postal voting is vital for many and this change helps keep our electoral system secure. If your postal vote is affected, we’ll write to you – please look out for our email or letter and respond as soon as you can.”
Cllr Sue Holland, Leader of Broadland District Council, said:
We know changes can be confusing, but reapplying is quick and easy. Doing it now ensures you can continue voting securely and conveniently from home.”
How to Reapply
• Visit: www.gov.uk/apply-postal-vote
• You’ll need:
Date of birth; National Insurance number; Handwritten signature (photo or scan).
Look out for emails from: elections.at.south.norfolk.and.broadland@notifications.service.gov.uk, or expect a letter if the councils don’t have your email address.
Residents unable to apply online, will receive a paper form.
Residents who do not reapply by 31 January 2026, will have their postal vote cancelled. They will still be able to vote in person, if they provide an accepted form of photo ID.
Published: 2 December 2025