What Kind Of Compensation Do New York Poll Workers Receive?

With the hustle and bustle of the election cycle in full swing, and election day upon us, there's a lot to think about, and emotions are running high.

Here in New York State, we've tried to educate you on how to best prepare for the polls, what you can and cannot wear when going to vote, the early voting process, and so on, but have you ever considered what it might be like to be on the other side of the poll table?

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SEE ALSO: Are You Allowed to Tip or Thank Poll Workers?

Poll Worker Recruitment Process

In the Empire State, you must be a New York State registered voter in order to work the polls, though if you are 17-years-old and attend school in a district that has a program under Education Law Section 3207-a, you may be eligible to work.

Poll workers are assigned to the county where you live, through in New York City, workers would be assigned to cover a polling location within the five boroughs.

As a poll worker, there are several responsibilities and tasks that you could be doing for the election, these include setting up the voting equipment, preparing the venue for voting, or signing in and processing voters. You may also be responsible for demonstrating the voting procedures, assisting voters if necessary, canvassing and reporting results, and helping to close the polling location.

SEE ALSO: New York Prepares For Potential Chaos After Election Day

Do New York Poll Workers Get Paid?

Absolutely - New York poll workers get paid for each day they work, and also for training. Pay rates do vary by state, and even within the state, with varying roles receiving different compensation.

For example, in Dutchess County and Sullivan County, poll workers (sometimes referred to as Election Inspectors) are paid $300 on Election Day for primary and general elections, for a full day (5am until 9pm). In Ulster County, the rate of pay is $18/hour, and $60 for completing annual mandatory training. In Orange County, pay rates start at $325. In Putnam County, pay varies by position, and the rates are outlined here. In Rockland County, workers receive $300 per election and $25 for every required class.

A New York City Poll Worker application indicates that the salary is $130.00 for election day, with $25.00 for attending class and passing the exam.