Updating your details on the electoral register

Each year in August we send out voter registration forms to every residential property in the district in order to collect the information we need to update the electoral register.

Don't lose your right to vote

To vote in elections you need to be on the electoral register. The registration form collects the information we need for a revised electoral register.

If you do not respond to this form you may not appear on the revised register and you might lose your right to vote and it is much harder to obtain credit if you are not on the register.

You are required by law to give the information asked for on this form.

Seven important facts about your voter registration form

• Responding to it ensures that you and everyone else eligible listed on the form will be able to vote.
• Responding to it ensures that you can all still apply for credit.
• A prompt response saves this Council time and money.
• Responding online or by phone saves us even more money.
• Not responding costs money as we have to send reminders.
• Being on the Council Tax register does not put you on the electoral register.
• Failing to respond could result in you being prosecuted and fined!

Completing the voter registration form

Please read the notes on the back of the form carefully before completing the form. We have also prepared a step by step guide for completing the voter registration form which may answer any questions you have:

• Step by step guide to completing your voter registration form

Use the internet, freephone or text services 

The registration form will show details of those who are already on the register at the property address. If all the details on the form are correct, you can help save money if you can confirm them by using the internet or freephone and text (SMS) registration services - please note that these services are now closed until next year's forms are sent out.

If you use the internet or freephone services you will be asked for a two-part security code in order to access the system. This security code can be found in the top right-hand section on the front of your voter registration form.

• You can use the internet service to confirm that the details are correct and if you wish to alter, add or remove names listed on your form. You can choose whether the names of electors in your household will appear on the edited register and you can also apply for a postal vote.
• You can use the freephone service to confirm that the details are correct and change whether the names of electors in your household will appear on the edited register and you can also apply for a postal vote.
• You can use the text service if all of the details on your form are correct.

If you are unable to use the internet, freephone or text services please return the completed form to us by post using the envelope provided (no stamp is required).

If you are unsure about any of the details you need to complete follow the link below for a step by step guide:

• Step by step guide to completing your voter registration form

16 & 17 year olds and students

Please provide the details of any 16 and 17 year olds at your address and make sure you include their date of birth so that they can can vote as soon as they are 18. Students may register at both their home and college addresses.

Second home owners

Second home owners will be able to register if they make a declaration stating that they spend an average of 2 to 3 days a week at their second home. Contact us on 01394 444685 or email elections@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk for more details.

Help and further information

If you need any help or further information you can contact us on 01394 444685 or email elections@suffolkcoastal.gov.uk and we will be pleased to help you.