File to Become a Candidate

Interested in making an impact in your local community? Do you have good leadership skills and experience?

To become a candidate on the ballot, you must

• be a registered voter in the district,
• meet the qualifications for the office at the time of filing, and
• file a Declaration of Candidacy in May.

In addition to filing with the Auditor’s Office or Secretary of State’s Office, many candidates are required to file paperwork and regular reports with the Washington State Public Disclosure within two weeks of starting a campaign. Visit the PDC for more information.

Check out these additional resources:

• 2021 Candidate Guide (PDF)
• Campaign finance reporting
• Campaign sign information
• Local Voters’ Pamphlet Administration Rules (PDF)
• Confirm your registration and eligible districts

Forms:

• Candidacy Withdrawal form (PDF)
• Declaration of Candidacy (PDF)
• Declaration of Write-in Candidacy
• Voter & Election Data Request (PDF)