Eligibility

Voters affected by domestic abuse, sexual assault, or stalking may register as confidential voters.

Confidentiality

The names and addresses of confidential voters are not included in voter lists released by the state.

The names and addresses of confidential voters are not included in the alphabetical listing of voters on the poll book. Confidential voter names and unique identifying numbers are listed in the back of the poll book, on a page that is not open to public inspection.

When voting at the polls or voting absentee in person, confidential voters do not state a name and address. Instead, they present a confidential voter card from the Clerk’s Office. Confidential voters are exempt from showing voter ID.

Registering

Confidential voter registration is only available in the office of your municipal clerk. City of Madison residents may register confidentially in the Madison City Clerk’s Office, located in room 103 of the City-County Building (210 Martin Luther King, Jr., Boulevard). If the voter who is requesting a confidential listing is not already registered to vote, the voter will need to show proof of residence.

Required Documentation

Voters registering confidentially must submit a request in writing (the Confidential Voter Registration form may be used) and present one of the following documents:

  • Restraining order or injunction currently in effect
  • Affidavit from Chief of Police, Sheriff, or District Attorney dated within last 30 days
  • Signed statement from the operator or agent of a shelter, dated within last 30 days, indicating that the voter resides in the shelter
  • Statement signed by a representative of a service provider for survivors of domestic abuse or sexual assault, indicating that the voter received services from that provider within 24 months of the date on the statement
  • Proof of participation in the Wisconsin Department of Justice's Safe at Home address confidentiality program