Withdrawal of Candidacy

Deadline to withdraw your Declaration of Candidacy is May 12, 2025

If you decide you do not want your name on the ballot, your signed withdrawal form must be received by the office where you filed by 5 p.m. on Monday, May 12, 2025.

The deadline for candidates to remove their name from the ballot is 5 p.m. on the Monday following the filing period (RCW 29A.24.131).

Filing fees are nonrefundable, even if you filed for the wrong office (RCW 29A.24.131).

Withdrawal of Candidacy Form

Complete the form with signature before you submit it to your filing office. Your withdrawal must be in writing.

The Office of the Secretary of State administers the public offices listed below: 

• United States Senator
• United States Representative
• Statewide Executive
• State Legislative
• Supreme Court Justice
• Court of Appeals Judge
• Superior Court Judge

Contact your county elections office for all other offices.

Knowingly providing false information on a Declaration of Candidacy is a class C felony as provided by RCW 29A.84.711.

Office of the Secretary of State: call (360) 902-4180, toll free 1 (800) 448-4881, email [email protected]. Assistance is available Monday- Friday, 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.

Withdrawal of Candidacy Frequently Asked Questions

When do I file a withdrawal of candidacy?

The deadline is May 12, 2025 to submit a withdrawal of candidacy to your filing officer. The deadline for candidates to remove thier name from the ballot is 5 p.m. on the Monday following the filing period (RCW 29A.24.131).

Where do I file a withdrawal of candidacy?

Submit the completed form to the same office your filed your declaration of candidacy.

Federal and state positions file with the Office of the Secretary of State.

Contact your county elections office for all other offices.

How do I file a withdrawal of candidacy form?

A written signed statement indicating your withdrawal must be submitted by the above referenced deadlines with the appropriate office.

You may scan your completed form to submit via email.

I accidentally filed for the wrong position or office. How do I change or edit the declaration of candidacy?

The only way to change your office or position is to file again. A candidate must withdraw before the close of filing week and submit a new declaration of candidacy. Filing fees are non-refundable.

How do I know my withdrawal of candidacy was accepted?

Your filing officer will provide confirmation of receipt and the Candidates Who Filed list will display your name in red strikethough.