7. Do I need to use two (2) envelopes to return my ballot by mail?

You should always follow the specific instructions in your state's ballot materials, but when mailing back your ballot, you usually need to use two envelopes: (1) an inner security envelope, holding only your voted ballot, and (2) an outer mailing envelope, holding both the sealed security envelope and any required accompanying documents.

This is done to maintain the secrecy of your ballot while also allowing the Local Election Official to review your accompanying documents to confirm that you're an eligible voter. 

Typically, you seal your voted ballot in a security envelope. This envelope must be sealed to ensure your ballot hasn't been tampered with. Your ballot instructions should indicate that nothing else goes in the security envelope — only your voted ballot!

Next, the security envelope AND any other materials you are required to send back, such as your voter's oath/affirmation, go inside a mailing envelope. If needed, you can fold your security envelope to make it fit inside the mailing envelope. 

You may have received pre-printed envelopes or envelope templates with your ballot. But if you didn't, it's perfectly okay to use regular envelopes and write the required information on them. 

When your Local Election Official receives your mailed ballot, they'll be able to use the materials in the mailing envelope to confirm that you're an eligible voter, but they won't be able to see how you voted. Once  your voter status is confirmed, your still-sealed security envelope with your ballot inside will be separated from your identifying information before your vote is tallied.