If you're in the military or plan to be overseas on Election Day, apply now for absentee ballots, said Secretary of State Mark Ritchie.

Those who apply this early will be assured of receiving ballots on Sept. 17, Ritchie said. That's the first date that general election ballots become available. Minnesota law allows military personnel and voters overseas the option of receiving their ballots electronically but requires the voters to return their ballots by mail.

"County election officials are accepting applications now," Ritchie said in a statement. "If you are in the military or planning on being overseas on Election Day, submit an absentee ballot application to your county auditor and request that your ballot be either e-mailed or faxed to you." 

Ritchie encouraged military and overseas voters to visit here.