Write-in candidates are a unique feature of Illinois elections. They allow qualified individuals to run for office without appearing on the printed ballot. Voters simply write the candidate’s name in the designated space. While this option provides flexibility, it comes with strict procedural requirements under the Illinois Election Code. Missing a single deadline can mean your votes are never counted.
A write-in candidate is someone whose name does not appear on the ballot, but who still seeks election. Illinois law (10 ILCS 5/7-59, 17-16.1, and 18-9.1) provides a clear path: you must formally notify election officials in advance that you intend to run as a write-in. Without this filing, no votes cast for you will be tabulated, even if voters write your name in large numbers.
