California HOA Elections

Two-Envelope System

The required paper ballot process using an inner sealed envelope and a signed outer return envelope.

The information provided on this website is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.

At a Glance

How Condo Elects handles the two-envelope system

Condo Elects mails ballots with a sealed inner envelope and a pre-addressed outer return envelope. The return envelope comes pre-printed with the unit address and a unique unit identifier, so voters don't need to write in their address — reducing errors and provisional ballots. Ballots go out at least 30 days before the election. This process applies to all paper ballot elections; electronic voting is not available for special assessment votes.

Inner envelope Sealed; contains the marked ballot; no identifying information
Return envelope Signed outer envelope with voter name, signature, and address
Condo Elects pre-prints Unit address and unique unit identifier on every return envelope
Ballots mailed At least 30 days before the election
Calculate your ballot mailing deadline →

Definition

How the two-envelope system works

The two-envelope system in California requires unit owners to cast their physical ballots by placing them in a sealed inner envelope, which contains general instructions but no identifying information. This inner envelope is then placed inside a pre-addressed and typically pre-stamped return envelope. The return envelope must include spaces for the voter's printed name, signature, and address to verify authenticity. If mailing out the ballots, Condo Elects simplifies this process by pre-printing the unit address and unit identifier on the return envelopes, ensuring voters do not forget to include their address. Moreover, Condo Elects generates labels with this information so that associations/management companies/inspectors of elections who utilize the Condo Elects software suite can print and mail out the documents themselves.

Notes This process is required for all secret ballots where the homeowner has not enrolled into electronic voting.
Election Types Annual Elections, Recalls, Special Assessments, Change in Governing Documents, Other
See Also
Inner Envelope Return Envelope Ballot

Further Reading

The links above are provided for reference and further reading. Condo Elects is not affiliated with, does not endorse, and does not maintain a business relationship with these sources. These are publicly available resources, and their content is subject to change. For legal advice tailored to your specific situation, please consult an attorney.