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How and when are election results finalized? (2024)
The election results that state and local election agencies present on election night are unofficial, partial results. After election night, results are finalized during what is called the canvassing and certification of the vote.[1]
During the canvassing process, elections officials verify that votes were counted correctly. Officials reconcile absentee/mail-in ballots and military and overseas ballots, process provisional and challenged ballots, and review rejected ballots. After the canvass, officials publish a report, which often includes the official returns; informational statistics such as the number of each type of ballot cast, the number of absentee/mail-in ballots sent out, and the number of ballots rejected; and a narrative portion describing any issues, audits, or remedies. Depending on the state, official certification of the election may occur at the finalization of the canvass, or at a separate certification meeting.[1]
Canvassing and certification occur on the local and state levels. State laws set timelines for these processes. In the 2024 election cycle:
- Four states had state certification dates within one week of the election.
- Twenty-two states had state certification dates between November 13 and November 30.
- Twenty states had state certification dates in December.
- Four states did not have state certification dates specified in statute.
What about recounts? A recount is a process by which votes cast in an election are re-tabulated to verify the accuracy of the original results. In the event that a recount occurs, the effects of the election are delayed until the recount is resolved. Recount laws vary by state, but the two most common types of recounts are automatically triggered and requested. As of 2024, state law in 48 states included a recount provision, automatic recounts were possible in 27 states, and requested recounts were possible in 43 states. Click here to read about recount laws and procedures in the 50 states.
Election result certification dates, 2024
The chart below shows state certification dates for November 5, 2024, general election results.[2]
Click here for more details about each state's certification timeline. To read each state's statutory requirements for election results certification, click here.
See also
- Election results certification dates, 2024
- Are results reported on election night coming from in-person or absentee/mail-in votes?
- How do major media outlets declare winners?
- What happens if candidates declare victory before results are final?
- How can I learn more about how my jurisdiction administers elections?
Footnotes
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 Election Assistance Commission, "Election Management Guidelines Second Edition 2023," accessed September 8, 2024 (pages 127-132)
- ↑ This information was compiled by Ballotpedia staffers; specific sources include state statutes, election administration manuals, election calendars, and email inquiries. Sources are available here.
