Short answer: It depends on the jurisdiction and the type of ballot, but in many systems counting begins after polls close on election day, with some ballots (like advance or special ballots) potentially counted at local offices or even in Ottawa for certain categories. Preliminary results are often posted on election night and then validated later. Details by common patterns (based on standard practice across countries and regions):
- On election day at polling places: Ballots are typically tallied as soon as polls close at the voting location. Counting can begin immediately after closing time and results are reported for that riding or precinct that night.
- Advance polls and early ballots: Ballots cast at advance polls or via special ballots are usually counted at the local election office for the riding, often after polls close on election day, but in high-volume situations counting may begin earlier.
- Ballots cast by mail or special categories from outside riding: These are frequently counted at a central facility (e.g., a national or provincial election office) and may begin days before or after election day, depending on volumes. Some jurisdictions allow counting up to two weeks or more before election day for certain categories.
- Preliminary vs. final results: Initial results published on election night are typically preliminary and later validated to produce final official results. The timeline for final results can extend into days after the election as ballots are confirmed and any post-vote counts or reconciliations are completed.
If you can specify the country or region and the type of election (federal, state/provincial, local; mail-in, advance, overseas), it’s possible to give a precise timeline for that jurisdiction.
