Get to know the benefits of registering to vote

Published: 7 March 2022

Registering to vote doesn’t just mean you can have your say in elections. Being on the electoral register in your local area can provide a range of benefits that are nothing to do with politics.

If you do want to vote in the upcoming Local Elections on 5 May, the deadline to register is 11.59pm on Thursday 14 April. This can be done on the Government website.

So, what other benefits could being on the electoral roll bring you?

You could pass credit checks more easily

Banks and lenders will often use the electoral roll to help verify your identity, and if they know who you are then your credit score could improve.

This could help in a whole range of situations including buying a car or securing a mortgage. I can also be particularly helpful if you don’t have a long credit history and it’s your first time getting a loan or even a phone contract.

A new home might be easier to secure

If you’re on the lookout for a new place to live, being on the electoral register may help your chances. The boost to your credit score may help when trying to secure a mortgage if you’re looking to buy. If you’re looking to rent, landlords may check the open register to verify your identity.

Remember that anyone can see the open register, and so it can also be used for marketing purposes. You can opt-out at any time.

It could get you a few Instagram followers

If that’s what’s important to you.

Being registered to vote means that you’ll actually be able to go to the polling station and have your say on the political makeup of your area or even the country.

While you’re at the polling station, you have the chance to jump on the regular social media trend of #DogsAtPollingStations.

Remember cameras aren’t allowed inside polling stations.

How do you register to vote

You can register to vote online on the government website, and all you’ll need is five minutes and your National Insurance number. If you’re a British citizen living overseas then you will also need your passport.

You can also request a paper copy of the form from Derby City Council or call us and register over the phone by calling 01332 640837, using the text service 07774 333412. For our signing service visit the Derby City Council website.

What are the different types of electoral role?

The electoral register lists the names and addresses of everyone who is registered to vote in public elections. The register is used for electoral purposes, such as making sure only eligible people can vote. It is also used for other limited purposes specified in law, such as:

• detecting crime (e.g. fraud)
• checking credit applications.
• calling people for jury service

The open register is an extract of the electoral register, but is not used for elections. It can be bought by any person, company or organisation. For example, it is used by businesses and charities to confirm name and address details. Your name and address will be included in the open register unless you ask for them to be removed. Removing your details from the open register does not affect your right to vote

Democracy