Candidate filing week, the official kickoff of the 2013 campaign season, is coming soon.

For candidates throughout Washington, including those seeking office on Mercer Island, it all begins Monday, May 13 with the launch of filing week.

For state offices, online filing begins Monday at 9 a.m. and runs night and day until 4 p.m. Friday, May 17. (Some county elections departments provide online filing, too.) In-person filing with the Secretary of State starts Monday at 8 a.m. and ends at close of business (5 p.m.) on Friday.

Candidates file with either the Secretary of State or the County Auditor, depending on the office. If running for a legislative or judicial office encompassing more than one county, file with the Secretary of State.

Candidates can file online, by mail or in person. In-person candidate filing at the Secretary of State’s office will be at our Executive Office on the second floor of the Legislative Building in Olympia. If you’re running for a legislative or judicial office within one county, file with the county elections office.

All declarations must be received by the end of the business day on May 17. May 20 is the last day for candidates to withdraw.

Go here to learn how to file for office and here to see the eight state offices open for election this year and the filing fee for each one.

For more information go here FAQ section.