NC Voter Education 2026: What’s on the Ballot & Voter Resources
Early Voting: October 15–31 | Election Day: November 3
North Carolina voters will consider three proposed amendments to the state Constitution in the November 3 election, including two proposals addressing property taxes and the state income-tax rate and a third addressing voter identification.
At MDC, we care about communities having the resources and flexibility to meet local needs. The two tax-related amendments raise important questions about how state and local governments would fund schools, infrastructure, and other public services in the years ahead.
We encourage North Carolinians to learn about all three proposals, explore their potential effects, and make informed decisions before voting.
Whether you’re voting early or on Election Day, the resources below can help you prepare.
What’s on the Ballot? Three Constitutional Amendments
1. Property-Tax Amendment
This proposed amendment would require the North Carolina General Assembly to establish limits on increases in property-tax levies by local governments, with exceptions permitted under the legislation.
Property taxes are an important source of funding for local services, including schools, infrastructure, and other community needs. The proposal raises questions about how local governments would balance potential tax savings with their ability to respond to changing needs.
Learn more:
- Read the official property-tax amendment — NC General Assembly
- Explore analysis of the amendments’ potential effects on public education — Public Schools First NC
- Read reporting on the proposed tax amendments — WRAL
- Explore a rural community perspective — Ocracoke Observer
2. State Income-Tax Amendment
This proposed amendment would lower the maximum allowable state income-tax rate from 7% to 3.5%.
Beyond the tax rate itself, the proposal raises broader questions about how North Carolina would fund public services and respond to changing needs in the years ahead.
Decisions about state resources shape investments in schools, infrastructure, and other public services that communities rely on.
Learn more:
- Read the official income-tax amendment — NC General Assembly
- Explore analysis of the amendments’ potential effects on public education — Public Schools First NC
- Read reporting on the proposed tax amendments — WRAL
3. Voter Identification Amendment
North Carolina voters will also consider a proposed constitutional amendment addressing photo identification requirements for voting, including absentee voting by mail.
While MDC’s voter education campaign focuses primarily on the two tax-related amendments, we encourage voters to review all three proposals before casting their ballots.
Learn more:
- Read the official voter identification amendment — NC General Assembly
- Review North Carolina’s current voter ID requirements — NC State Board of Elections
Get Ready to Vote
Early Voting: October 15–31
Early voting is underway in North Carolina and continues through Saturday, October 31, at 3 p.m.
During early voting, eligible voters may cast their ballots at any early voting location in their county.
Missed the regular voter registration deadline? Eligible North Carolinians can register and vote on the same day during early voting. Proof of residence and acceptable photo identification are required, with voter ID exceptions available under state law.
Helpful voting resources:
- Check your voter registration and view your sample ballot
- Find an early voting location and check hours
- Learn about same-day voter registration
- Review acceptable photo IDs and available exceptions
- Learn about voting by mail
Election Day: Tuesday, November 3
Planning to vote on Election Day? Make sure you know where to go and what to bring.
Unlike early voting, voters must generally cast their ballots at their assigned Election Day polling place. Polls are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Same-day registration is not available to most voters on Election Day.
Before you go:
- Find your assigned Election Day polling place
- Check your voter registration and sample ballot
- Review photo ID requirements and exceptions
Know Your Voting Rights
Every eligible voter should be able to participate in the election process.
Here are a few important things to remember:
- Stay in line. If you’re in line when the polls close, you have the right to vote.
- Ask for a replacement ballot if you make a mistake.
- Ask about a paper ballot if voting machines are not working.
- Ask for assistance if election workers cannot find your name on the voter rolls. Confirm you’re at the correct location and ask about a provisional ballot if needed.
- Know where to get help. Nonpartisan voter assistance is available if you encounter problems.
Election Protection Hotlines
For voting questions or assistance, contact the nonpartisan Election Protection Hotline:
English: 866-OUR-VOTE (866-687-8683)
Spanish: 888-VE-Y-VOTA (888-839-8682)
Arabic: 844-YALLA-US (844-925-5287)
Asian-language assistance: 888-274-8683
Additional information:
Make a Plan. Get Informed. Vote.
The decisions North Carolinians make in this election will help shape the state’s future.
At MDC, we believe informed participation is an important part of building communities where all people can thrive.
Take time to learn about the issues, review your ballot, and make a plan to vote.
Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
These resources are provided for nonpartisan voter education. Links include official government information, independent reporting, and analysis from outside organizations. MDC encourages voters to review multiple sources and make their own informed decisions. For the most current voting procedures and deadlines, visit the North Carolina State Board of Elections at ncsbe.gov.