Individual Electoral Registration (IER) means that each individual now needs to register online in order to be eligible to vote.
Registering is easy. It takes around 5 minutes and you’ll need your National Insurance number to hand (if you have one).
Why should I register?
There are plenty of reasons to register to vote. Here are just a few:
• If you’re not registered, you can’t vote
That means you can’t have your say in any local, national or EU elections. You also won’t be able to vote in any national referendums.
• Appropriate representation
People under the age of 24 represent the largest under-represented group on the electoral register.
• Better credit
Being on the electoral register can boost your credit rating and help you get credit if you need a new phone contract, to buy a new car or open a bank account.
• Get access to council services
You need to be on the register to access certain council services like parking permits and free bulky waste collections.
• Avoid a fine
If you’re asked to register and don’t do so, your Electoral Registration Office could fine you £80.
Visit GOV.UK/register-to-vote for more information and to register now.
Posted on Monday 16th November 2015