Final filing deadlines for independent presidential candidates


Although there is no formal, national deadline to file to run for president of the United States, independent presidential candidates must keep a close eye on the election calendar as each state has its own filing requirements and deadline to qualify to appear on the general election ballot.

These requirements may include submitting a petition with a certain number of signatures or paying a filing fee.

Filing deadlines for independent presidential candidates have already passed in 43 states.

In the week of August 31, the final seven filing deadlines will pass:
• North Dakota (August 31)
• Delaware (September 1)
• New Hampshire (September 2)
• Arizona (September 4)
• Kentucky (September 4)
• Mississippi (September 4)

• Rhode Island (September 4)

The following chart shows how many days are left until each remaining state’s filing deadline passes:

Additional reading:
Presidential election, 2020
State ballot access regulations for presidential candidates