The official procedure for counting the ballots is initially within the responsibility of the town and ward moderators. Disputes may thereafter be referred to the Secretary of State. Within five days after the election, any person of any party for whom a vote was cast at the presidential primary may ask for a recount. Only two recounts have been held since 1952, both in 1980.

The fee for a presidential recount is $500. But subject to other restrictions not detailed here, the complainant will usually have to pay the entire cost of the recount if he lost by more than one percent of the votes cast. On the other hand, if he wins by reason of the recount, then he is refunded all fees paid at the time of filing.
The Secretary and his assistants conduct the recount. The candidates, their counsel and assistants have the right to inspect the ballots and participate in it.

If dissatisfied with the ruling of the Secretary of State, a candidate may appeal to the member Ballot Law Commission for a hearing on the questions involved. In most areas of ballot disputes the Commission has the final decision-making authority to settle such issues.

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