Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson has marked the start of National Voter Registration Month by encouraging eligible Michigan citizens to register in September.

“Our democracy is at its best when everyone has a seat at the table,” Benson said. “Michiganders now have more options than ever before to simply and safely register and cast their ballots. National Voter Registration Month is the perfect time to take the first step in exercising your constitutional right by registering to vote and learning more about how to participate in our elections.”

The National Association of Secretaries of State established September as National Voter Registration Month in 2002 as a nonpartisan means of encouraging voter participation and increasing awareness about state requirements. Sept. 28 is National Voter Registration Day.

In Michigan, residents can register to vote in person up to 8 p.m. on Election Day at their city or township clerk’s office. Residents can also register online at Michigan.gov/Vote or by mail at least 15 days before an election. In the 14 days leading up to an election and on Election Day, voters must register in person to vote in the election.

To be eligible to register, the person must be —

— A Michigan resident at the time of registration and a resident of that city or township for at least 30 days, up to election day;

— A United States citizen;

— At least 18 years of age when casting the vote;

— Not currently serving a sentence in jail or prison.

Residents must provide proof of eligibility and residency to register if registering in the 14 days before an election, including Election Day. Documents submitted as proof of residency must include the voter’s name and current address. Digital copies of documents are accepted. Such documents can include:

— Michigan driver’s license or state ID;

— Current utility bill;

— Bank statement;

— Paycheck or government check;

— Other government document.

Residents can find registration information, including the location of their clerk’s office and steps to complete registration, at the Michigan Voter Information Center at Michigan.gov/Vote. To report incorrect election information, contact misinformation@michigan.gov.