Absentee voting allows individuals to cast their ballots without being physically present at their designated polling places on election day. This option is often used by people who are away from their voting location due to work, travel, or health reasons. Voters typically need to request an absentee ballot in advance and may be required to provide a valid reason for their absence. Once they receive their absentee ballot, voters can fill it out and return it by mail or, in some cases, submit it electronically. Each state has its own rules regarding absentee voting, including deadlines for requesting and submitting ballots, which voters should check to ensure their votes are counted.