Hand Counting Delivers Election Day or Same Day Results

The Myth: Hand Counting Takes Too Long

A common myth claims hand counting takes too long, delaying results for days or weeks. In 2022, a St. Louis County official suggested it could take months, offering no evidence. Yet, hand counting delivers election day results—or same day, if counting starts after polls close—based on real-world data.

Finding: 50–100 Ballots Per Hour Per Team

The “Missouri Method” Ensures Efficiency

• Tested Speed: Teams of 4 count 50–100 ballots per hour, depending on ballot length (2 seconds per tally, including reviews).
• Real-World Proof: In Osage County’s 2023 election, Westphalia’s team counted 481 ballots in 5 hours—averaging 100 ballots per hour—despite unformatted ballots. Other polling places reported similar times.

The Hand Count Estimator Tool helps clerks project counting times and staffing needs using historical turnout data, ensuring hand counting delivers election day results. Input variables like ballots per hour and team size, and it calculates labor costs and team requirements to ensure election day results. It’s simple math for any jurisdiction.

Action for Elected Officials

Hand counting delivers timely results — 50 to 100 ballots per hour. Use the Estimator Tool to plan efficient elections in your county, ensuring transparency without delays.

Read the full content at Finding: Election Day or Same Day Results