FAQs - Registering to vote (during rolling registration)

Frequently asked questions - Registering to vote

• How do I register to vote?
• Can I register to vote over the phone?
• When can I register to vote?
• I am 17. Can I register to vote?
• Can I check if my name is on the Register of Electors by phoning or checking on the internet?
• I'm a student and I'm not sure where I should register to vote?
• Why can't I get credit?
• How can I inspect the Register of Electors?

How do I register to vote?

You can register to vote throughout the year as the register is updated every month. In order to register please complete the Household Voter Registration Form and return it to us.

Can I register to vote over the phone?

No, as a signature is required you will need to register in writing.  However during the Annual Canvass you can renew your registration details over the phone or using the internet, providing that your details have not changed. Information on how this can be done will be included with the canvass form.

When can I register to vote?

Most people register between September and November every year when an annual canvass form is delivered to your home. You can register throughout the year, see the 'How do I register' question above.

I am 17. Can I register to vote?

Yes. You can now register as long as you are 18 years old before 1 December.

Can I check if my name is on the Register of Electors by phoning or checking on the internet?

We are unable to provide registration details over the telephone.  This information can only be confirmed by attendance at the Council Offices in Thrapston between 9am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday.  It is advisable to make an appointment first.

I'm a student and I'm not sure where I should register to vote?

Students are entitled to register at both their home address and their university address.  You can vote once in each local election generally, but for any election that covers the whole country, you are only allowed to vote once.  As you will be invited to vote in both areas it will be your responsibility to choose where you want to vote.  It is a criminal offence to vote more than once in this instance.

The final decision on a registration application rests with the Electoral Registration Officer at the council with whom you are trying to register.

Why can't I get credit?

If you have been denied credit because your bank or a credit reference agency are unable to verify your details on the electoral register you will need to first check that you are registered. You may do this by visiting the Council Offices in Thrapston between 9am and 4.30pm Monday to Friday. It is advisable to make an appointment first.

Sometimes the records maintained by credit reference agencies are incorrect - they should be able to supply you with a copy of your record so that you can check the details.

If your name is on the register and the agency still require confirmation we are able to provide you with a letter confirming your details, for which there is a £15 charge.

If you have already provided confirmation that you are registered to your bank or credit reference agency and experience further problems, you will need to take this up with them directly.

How can I inspect the Register of Electors?

The Register of Electors is available for inspection at the Council Offices at Cedar Drive, Thrapston.

In accordance with the Representation of the People (England and Wales) (Amendment) Regulations 2002, the following rules apply to persons inspecting the Register of Electors:

• The register is open to public inspection, under supervision
  
• Extracts from the register may be recorded only by making hand written notes. Photocopying or electronic recording are not permitted by law
  
• Information taken from the Register must not be used for direct marketing purposes (as per section 11(3) of the Data Protection Act 1998), unless the information has been published in the edited version of the register.
  

To make an appointment to view the register contact us on 01832 742119.