The following information is provided as a resource to candidates, if you have any questions please call our office at 845-334-5470.
- 2026 Draft Political Calendar
- Running for Office/Directory of Elected Officials – 2026 updates coming soon
- Information on the future shift of local elections to even numbered years, includes timeline scenarios and exempted offices (Chapter 741 of the laws of 2023)
- Requirements if Filing paperwork (petitions, acceptances, authorization, caucus notices, etc) by mail
- Notary Advisory – Department of State Regulations pertaining to Notary Record Keeping apply to notaries collecting petition signatures
- Guidance: Chapter 744 of the Laws of 2022 Changes to Specifications of Objections
Please visit the State Board of Elections website for more information on State and Federal office.
What Elected Offices will be on the Ballot in 2026? – Coming Soon
2026 Designating Petition Filings
Declinations/Candidate Substitution filings, updated as received
2026 Independent Nominating Petition Filings
2026 Caucus Notice Filings –
Available as we receive notices 2/24/2026-7/23/2026
Petition Objection Forms
Guidance: Chapter 744 of the Laws of 2022 Changes to Specifications of Objections
Getting on the Ballot
There are two pathways to get on the ballot in Ulster County. Some town political parties conduct Party Caucuses for local offices, but not all parties participate. The alternative to a party caucus is the petition process. If you are unsure which process to follow please contact the Ulster County Board of Elections at 845-334-5470.
Running for Office/Directory of Elected Officials 2026 Updates Coming Soon
Caucus Information
- 2026 Caucus Packet – Coming Soon
- Caucus Sample Script
Petition Information
- Sample Designating Petition
- Sample Independent Nominating Petition
- Sample Opportunity to Ballot Petition – *Note new OTB law changes* OTB petition will only allow write-in of a candidate “enrolled in such party. A write-in ballot cast in a party primary for a candidate not enrolled in such party shall be void and not counted.” New rule also requires OTB committee to receive notice; members must file Certificate of Acceptance.
- Notary Advisory – Department of State Regulations pertaining to Notary Record Keeping apply to notaries collecting petition signatures
- Sample Cover Sheet – Required only when there are 10 or more pages in your Petition
- Certificate of Acceptance
- Certificate of Declination
- Certificate of Substitution
- Certificate of Authorization
2026 Designating Petition Signature Requirements – Coming Soon – Available February 20, 2026
2025 –5% Signature Requirements for Countywide Offices and UC Legislature
2025 – 5% Signature Requirements for Town/Ward/District
2025 – 5% Signature Requirements for Towns/Villages
2026 Independent Petition Signature Requirements
Poll Watcher Information
Guidelines – Summary of regulations for observing an election at a Polling Location
Poll Watcher Blank Certificate
Campaign Finance –
Updates coming 2/20/2026
Effective January 1st, 2020 all candidates must file directly with the New York State Board of Elections.