Running for Office

News & Updates

The information contained here is intended to provide guidance for those who are preparing to circulate petitions and is not to be used as a substitute for consulting the Election Law for specific petition requirements. Please refer to the Official Political Calendar for all filing dates.

Updates:

  • Even-Year Elections Transition Guidance: On December 22, 2023, Governor Hochul signed Chapter 741 of the Laws of 2023, which moves elections for a number of local offices outside of New York City to even-numbered years. For more information, please see the guidance document.
  • Requirement for Ballot Access Related Filings by Mail or Overnight Delivery Service: For detailed information, please read this filing requirement document.
  • New Requirements for Independent Nominating Petitions: Pursuant to the permanent injunction granted by the United States District Court for the Eastern District of New York in Schmidt v. Kosinski, the witness requirements for Independent Nominating Petitions have changed. Please see the new requirements.

Getting Started

Qualifications

View a table with the required citizenship, age, residency and statute to hold a statewide office.

Filing Dates

Please refer to the Official 2026 Political Calendar for all filing dates.

Important
Rules & Regulations
The following information is intended to provide guidance for those who are preparing to circulate petitions and is not to be used as a substitute for consulting NYS Election Law for specific requirements.
Contact Information

Additional information may be obtained by calling the New York State Board of Elections at (518) 474-6220 or by contacting your County Board of Elections.