Current Resident Address

A current resident address is the physical address where a person presently lives. In voter registration, the residential address is used to place the voter in the correct election districts and determine the appropriate ballot. It may be different from a mailing address, which is simply where the person receives mail.

Not always. A current residential address identifies where you physically live, while a mailing address identifies where you receive mail. They can be the same, but a voter may use a separate mailing address, such as a P.O. box, when permitted. Election officials generally need the residence address to assign districts and ballot style.

Election officials use a current resident address to determine a voter’s jurisdiction, precinct or district assignments, and eligible ballot contests. Address changes can affect local, legislative, congressional, school, or other district boundaries. Registration deadlines and procedures for updating an address vary, so voters should follow the rules of their election authority.