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Federal Election Commission | United States of America
  • Tips for Treasurers

Gaining ballot access

September 15, 2025

State laws and procedures govern how candidates come to appear on election ballots. Contact the Secretary of State or appropriate election office for more information.

For a guide to state and territory offices, consult our federal and state election directory.

Read next:

Commission to Offer Candidate Committee Reporting and FECFile Webinars on October 1

More Tips for Treasurers »

This information is not intended to replace the law or to change its meaning, nor does this information create or confer any rights for or on any person or bind the Federal Election Commission or the public.

The reader is encouraged also to consult the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (52 U.S.C. 30101 et seq.), Commission regulations (Title 11 of the Code of Federal Regulations), Commission advisory opinions and applicable court decisions.