ANNAPOLIS (October 7, 2026) — With voting in the 2026 General Election set to begin this month, the Maryland State Board of Elections encourages residents to sign up soon to serve as Election Judges and Election Day Pages.
Judges and pages play a critical role in administering elections and enjoy benefits in the process. Eligible Marylanders aged 16 and older earn $250 per day and help residents cast their ballots by serving as Election Judges. Those who have previously served as judges are eligible for a one-time $100 bonus payment.
“Being an Election Judge is a great way to serve democracy and your fellow Marylanders,” said State Administrator Jared DeMarinis. “For younger Marylanders, the Election Day Page program enables you to help protect every voter’s right to be heard. I invite Marylanders to be a part of democracy in action by signing up today to be an Election Judge or Page.”
Election Judge responsibilities include setting up polling places, checking in voters, and answering voter questions. To apply to be an Election Judge, use SBE’s online form or contact your local Board of Elections. It is critical to have enough Election Judges on call in the event of cancellations. No prior experience is needed, and training is provided. A short video about serving as an election judge can be found here.
Maryland also offers an Election Day Page program for eligible 14 and 15-year-olds. Pages assist voters on Election Day under the direction of Chief Election Judges, and students gain the opportunity to earn service-learning credit hours for school. To apply, use SBE’s online form or contact your local Board of Elections.
State of Maryland and county government employees who are scheduled to be an election judge can earn administrative leave. Check with your employer for any added benefits of serving as an election judge.
