5 things to remember on Election Day

theGRIO REPORT - The time has come: there are less than 24 hours until Americans cast their votes for the next president. In preparation for Election Day, we've compiled a list of five things you need to remember before heading to the polls tomorrow....

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The time has come: there are less than 24 hours until Americans cast their votes for the next president. In preparation for Election Day, we’ve compiled a list of five things you need to remember before heading to the polls tomorrow. Keep this list in mind to make tomorrow a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Find your polling location.

To avoid going to the wrong location and having to cast a provisional ballot, visit Vote411.org. Enter your address to find your polling location and information on checking your voter registration status.

If you live in areas that were affected by Hurricane Sandy, your polling site may have been moved to a temporary location. Click here to see the changes.

Know what to bring to the polls.

Some states, like Georgia, Indiana, Kansas and Tennessee have strict guidelines requiring voters to show photo identification before casting their ballot. To find out what your state’s identification requirements will be tomorrow, visit AdvancementProject.org and click your state on the map. Other non-photo forms of ID include your utility bill, bank statement, government check or any other government document.

Even if your state doesn’t require an ID, it’s safer to bring a form of one with you just in case.

Some people have experienced record lines during early voting this year and there’s no telling what the lines will look like tomorrow, so make sure sure to bring something to entertain yourself with while waiting for your turn to vote.

Know your voting rights.

Voting rights activists are anticipating voter intimidation attempts at the polls tomorrow. It’s important to know your rights in preparation for such a situation.

If you experience any form of intimidation or suppression tomorrow, you can report the incident to a poll worker at the booths or contact your state or local election office to file a complaint.

You may also file a complaint with the U.S. Department of Justice at (888) 736-5551 or voting.section@usdoj.gov.

The American Civil Liberties Union also provides a guide on each state’s voting rights. Click your state on the map for more information.

Know your candidates and the issues.

With all the coverage of the presidential candidates leading up to tomorrow, some voters may forget that there will be other names on the ballot.

Visit VoteSmart.org to find out who’s running for Congress and other official positions in your state and learn what their stance is on different issues.

Ask for help.

Don’t hesitate to ask poll workers for help if you have any questions during the voting process. They are not allowed to tell you who to vote for, but they will help you cast your ballot correctly.

Follow Ugonna on Twitter at @ugonnaokpalaoka

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