The City of Madison Clerk’s Office has received many inquiries about the need for a witness signature and address on the absentee certificate envelope. The witness signature and address portion is necessary under Wisconsin State Statute 6.87(4)(b). There is no exemption at this time from this requirement.

There are a couple of organizations in Dane County that have offered to help those voters who live alone and have difficulty finding a witness for their absentee certificate envelope.

Older adults in Madison who need a witness for their absentee certificate envelope can call NewBridge for assistance. The number for NewBridge is (608) 512-0000.

The Dane County Voter ID Coalition has also started a service for individuals who need assistance with the witness signature and address on their absentee certificate envelope. The number for that hotline is (608) 285-2141. League of Women Voters of Dane County volunteers will try to help voters while maintaining social distance.

Spouses, significant others, and family members can serve as witness on the absentee certificate envelope for each other. Witnesses must be 18 years of age, and, if you are within the United States, a U.S. citizen. Witnesses for voters who are currently overseas do not need to be U.S. citizens.

The City Clerk’s Office wants to be able to count your ballot on Election Day. Voters are encouraged to use the resources above to make sure their vote is counted.