Frequently Asked Questions
How do I become a poll worker?
You can apply online for one of the four poll worker positions or call us at 212-227-0342 ext. 46 to apply by phone.
I've submitted my application. What happens next?
We print your application and hand deliver it to the Board of Elections. The Board will then mail you a postcard informing you of the location of your training class.
I applied to become a poll worker, but I haven't been contacted by the Board of Elections.
Your borough Board of Elections should contact you approximately one month after you submit your application. If you have not been contacted after a month, you can either:
- call your borough office and inquire on the status of your application, or
- e-mail us at pollworker@citizensunionfoundation.org with your name, address, position applied for, and date of application.
Where and when will my training class be?
There is a training class in every borough. Classes start in August 2007 and continue until October 2008. There are morning sessions from 10AM to 1PM, afternoon sessions from 2PM to 5PM, and evening sessions from 6PM to 9PM. Each class typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete. If you cannot attend during the time assigned, please contact your Borough Board of Elections to reschedule.
Is there a test?
All poll workers must pass an open-book test at the end of the class.
What days do I work and where?
After completing training, the Board of Elections will send you a Notice to Work. Your notice will inform you whether you will be working the Presidential Primary Election on February 5th, 2008, the New York State Primary on September 9th, 2008, and the General Election on November 4th, 2008. Hours for all three days are 5:30 AM to 9 PM. The Notice to Work will tell you the specific polling site you are assigned to for the Presidential Primary, New York State Primary, or General Election or notify you to participate as a poll worker on a stand-by basis.
What does it mean to work on a stand-by basis?
On Election Day, workers not assigned to a polling site report to their borough Board of Elections office as a stand-by worker. During the day, when a polling site reports vacancies or if more poll workers are needed at a particular site, stand-by workers are dispatched to assist at the appropriate location.
How much will I get paid and when?
You will be compensated up to $200 for every election worked, $25 for attending the training, and $35 for working at least one primary and the General Election. Six weeks after each election, you should receive a check from the Board of Elections. If you do not receive your compensation, please contact your borough's Board of Elections office.
Where can I find up-to-date poll worker notices and additional training material?
The latest announcements regarding poll work are posted on the Board of Elections' website. If you need to refresh your memory after the training class, a PDF version of the manual is online, as well as a training video.
I have other questions that aren't answered here. Where can I get them answered?
You can always call us at 212-227-0342 ext. 46 or send an email to pollworker@citizensunionfoundation.org.