The younger you are as a registered voter in the United States, the less likely you are to cast your ballot. And the more you may have to lose by not doing so.

According to the latest data from the U.S. Census Bureau, voters ages 18 to 24 consistently have the lowest turnout, demonstrating an overall trend toward disengagement.

While that age group’s participation spiked in 2008 for President Obama’s first election, the trend has once again headed downward.

For good reason. Only 49 percent of people ages 18 to 29 were registered to vote in the 2010 midterm elections. The rest either weren’t interested or didn’t know how to register.

However, debt from wars and unadjusted retirement benefits is being piled on our future. Adults make the choices and children get sent the unpaid portion of the bill with interest. It seems even informed, motivated youths often feel powerless to make a meaningful impact.

If they were to believe they can drive broad positive change, they’d be more inclined to communicate their thoughts to decision makers and participate electorally.

Here are four ways for younger voters to have an impact:

• Vote and encourage your friends to vote.

• Keep up with current events.

• Volunteer for a candidate’s campaign.

• Express your views to lawmakers through letters, calls and emails.

JONATHAN BANNON MAHER

Washington