Election day is coming up fast, and with tight races, turn-out at the polls is expected to be high.

However, there is a way to avoid those lines on Election Day. You can participate in early voting which runs from Monday, October 22nd through Friday, November 2nd.

If you are registered to vote you can simply walk into your City Clerk's office and tell them you would like to vote absentee. Ballots can not leave the building -- you must complete them while you are there.

If you are not registered, you can also go to the City Clerk's office and get registered. Since the open registration period is over, you will need proof of residency, which is a document that has your name and current address on it, such as a utility bill or bank statement.

Experts say one of the biggest benefits to voting early is having more flexibility for time.

"Having a two week window when they can adjust their schedule and come in and vote is really beneficial for a lot of people," says Wausau City Clerk Toni Rayala.

She says 30 percent of voters are expected to vote by absentee ballot this year. They are anticipating 6,500 to 7,000 early voters and have staff working around the clock to assist.