One of the key rights of shareholders is the right to vote their shares on important matters that affect the companies they own. The proxy voting process is a primary way for shareholders to learn about matters to be decided at companies in which they have invested, make their views known to company management, and participate effectively at an annual or special meeting.

This Web page provides shareholders with general information about how to cast their vote and why voting should be an important consideration for shareholders. Because investment companies, including mutual funds, may have special rules governing elections of directors or trustees, not all of the information on this web site will apply to investment companies.

For additional assistance, investors can call the SEC's Office of Investor Education and Advocacy at 1-800-SEC-0330, or ask a question using this online form.

Investor Alert — New Shareholder Voting Rules

Learn More About Recent Rule Changes Affecting the Election of Directors in 2010 Proxy Season

SEC Proxy-Related Rulemaking

• Final Rule on Amendments to Rules Requiring Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (February 22, 2010)
• Amendments to Rules Requiring Internet Availability of Proxy Materials (October 14, 2009)
• Proposed Rule on Proxy Disclosure and Solicitation Enhancements (July 10, 2009)
• More . . .

Other Proxy-Related Information

• Briefing Paper for 2007 Roundtable on Proxy Voting Mechanics
• How can I obtain a copy of a company's annual proxy statement?
• Fast Answer on Proxy Statements: Electronic and Internet Delivery
• More . . .

Corporate Elections FAQ

• What is a corporate election?
• Why do companies hold elections?
• When do most elections occur?
• More . . .

Receiving Proxy Materials FAQ

• I only received a single sheet of paper telling me to go to a Web site. What does that mean?
• I received a large package with proxy materials. What is in it?

• I received a large package, but there is no card that asks me how I want to vote. What should I do?
• More . . .

Voting Procedures FAQ

• How do I know when to vote?
• What is a record date?
• How do I vote at a corporate election?
• More . . .

"E-Proxy"/"Notice and Access" FAQ

Sample Proxy Notice

• Why don't I receive a copy of the proxy statement, annual report and proxy card in the mailing anymore?
• How does "Notice and Access" work?
• Can I get paper proxy packages now and in the future?
• More . . .