Thomson Reuters

If you're wondering whether you can come in late or leave work early to cast your vote in this year's presidential election, the short answer is, quite possibly — it depends where you work.

Currently, there is no federal law that mandates employers provide their employees time off to cast their ballots. But the majority of US states have time-off-to-vote laws, also referred to as voter-leave laws, and have different requirements and exceptions for employers and employees.

While some states guarantee paid time off, for example, others do not. And the time guaranteed for employees to vote varies state-by-state as well.

Of course, your own employer may offer leave to vote, even if your state does not. Patagonia, for example, announced that it's closing all US stores on Election Day in an effort to encourage customers and employees to vote.

But, since not everyone's employer is so generous, you'd be well-advised to learn about the specific voter leave provisions in your state.

REUTERS/Chris Keane

Alabama

Time off required

One hour

Paid or unpaid

Unpaid 

Notes and exceptions 

• Unless employee has at least two hours available before or one hour after work to vote.

• Employee must provide ""reasonable notice"" before taking time off.

• Employer may specify the hours employee can take off."

Alaska

Time off required

As long as it reasonably takes to vote

Paid or unpaid

Paid

Notes and exceptions

• Unless employee has at least two hours available before or after work to vote.

Arizona

Time off required

Three hours 

Paid or unpaid

Paid

Notes and exceptions 

• Unless employee has at least three hours available before or after work to vote.

• Employee must provide notice before Election Day.

• Employer may specify the hours employee can take off." 

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