Tips for Treasurers

May Reporting Reminder

Mon, 20 May 2013 10:35:22 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due, today, May 20, covering the month of April. Quarterly filers do not have a report due today. However, unlike monthly filers, if quarterly filers make contributions or expenditures in connection with special elections, they may have to file additional pre- or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

On-line Passwords for E-Filers

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:18:49 -0400

Beginning Wednesday, May 15, committees registered with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) will be able to go on-line to create a new electronic filing password, retrieve a forgotten password or change their existing e-filing password. The new system, available at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/passwords.shtml, will eliminate the need to fax password requests to the FEC and wait for a response. For details, please consult our Record article on the new system.

Trade Association or Membership Organization?

Tue, 7 May 2013 08:38:42 -0400

Sometimes membership organizations are not sure whether the more specific rules for trade associations apply to them. While all trade associations are membership organizations under FEC rules, not all membership organizations are trade associations. For example, labor organizations and chambers of commerce fit into the broader definition of membership organization, but do not fit into the definition of a trade association. An organization is a trade association under FEC regulations if its membership is engaged in a similar or related line of commerce or business (i.e., all the members of the organization are in the same industry) and if the organization promotes and tries to improve the business conditions of its membership. To learn more about the rules that apply to trade associations, membership organizations and labor organizations, register now for the FEC's May 22 webinar for these organizations. (Note: Act fast as limited spaces in the webinar remain; in-person attendance is sold out.)

RFAIs Are Not Spam

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 12:44:54 -0400

As mentioned in an earlier tip, the Reports Analysis Division now sends requests for additional information (RFAIs) via email. Make sure that you check your spam folder occasionally, to ensure that RFAIs sent to your committee are not ending up in it, and that you don't miss a deadline to respond to one!

Deciding Whether to Become a Candidate

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:34:02 -0400

Before deciding to campaign for federal office, an individual may want to test the waters; in other words, explore the feasibility of becoming a candidate. An individual who merely tests the waters, but does not campaign for office, does not have to register or report as a candidate even if the individual raises more than $5,000 (the dollar threshold that would normally trigger registration). Nevertheless, funds raised to test the waters are subject to the federal law's contribution limitations and prohibitions, and must be disclosed if the individual becomes a candidate. For more information, see this article: [HTML] [PDF] and this e-learning video.

April Filing Reminder for Monthly Filers

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 10:28:41 -0400

All PACs and party committees that file monthly have a report due Saturday, April 20, covering the month of March. (Note: PACs and party committees that filed quarterly in 2012 file on a semi-annual basis in 2013.) Please note that even though the FEC is not open on the 20th, the statutory filing deadline cannot be extended. Committees, particularly those that file on paper, should plan accordingly to ensure timely filing.

April Filing Reminder for Campaigns

Mon, 8 Apr 2013 11:16:14 -0400

Authorized committees have a report due Monday, April 15, covering activity from the closing date of their last report through March 31. (Note: PACs and party committees that filed quarterly in 2012 file on a semi-annual basis in 2013.) Staff in the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm (EDT) on Monday, April 15, to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4 or call 202-694-1307.

Register Now for FEC Corporate Webinar

Mon, 1 Apr 2013 12:32:07 -0400

Very few slots remain for those who wish to attend the April 24 seminar/webinar on federal campaign finance law for corporations and their political action committees. Don't miss your chance; register today! For information and registration materials, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/conferences/2013/corporateseminar.shtml.

Do You Know Who Reviews Your Reports?

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 08:13:21 -0400

Every committee registered with the FEC has a campaign finance analyst from the FEC's Reports Analysis Division assigned to review its reports. Each analyst is assigned 200-400 committees and is available to assist committee representatives over the phone on a daily basis. If you would like to find out the name of the analyst assigned to your committee, use the handy red button labeled "Click Here to Find Your Campaign Finance Analyst" at the top of the Reports Analysis Division FAQ web page. To contact your RAD analyst, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or locally, 202-694-1130.

March Reporting Reminder

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 09:10:18 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded they have a report due, Wednesday, March 20, covering the month of February. Quarterly filers do not have a regularly scheduled report due this month, but if they have made contributions or expenditures in connection with ongoing special elections, they may also have to file additional reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Register Now for FEC Candidate/Party Seminar

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 08:58:11 -0400

A few spots remain available for the FEC's seminar/webinar on federal campaign finance law for House and Senate campaigns and political party committees, to be held on March 20 at the FEC headquarters in Washington, DC. For information and registration materials, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/conferences/2013/campaignpartyseminar.shtml.

FECTube Updates

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 10:12:32 -0500

The FEC recently uploaded three updated videos to its YouTube channel, FECTube. The new videos concern contribution limits for 2013-14, redesignations and reattributions, and volunteer activity. Be sure to click "subscribe" when visiting the FEC's channel to be notified via YouTube when a new video is posted!

February Reporting Reminder

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 09:24:46 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded they have a report due, Wednesday, February 20, covering the month of January. Quarterly filers do not have a regularly scheduled report due this month, but if they have made contributions or expenditures in connection with ongoing special elections, they may also have to file additional reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Special Election Update

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:01:17 -0500

There are several special elections for House seats in Illinois, South Carolina and Missouri, and a Senate seat in Massachusetts. Candidates in these elections, as well as quarterly-filing political committees that make contributions or expenditures in connection with these elections, must file reports in connection with these elections. Go to http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates_2013.shtml#special for filing dates and more information on special election reporting.

Message from the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) – Process Change Notification

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 12:31:30 -0500

The Reports Analysis Division (RAD) will begin sending Non-Filer Notifications via e-mail in February 2013. Please note that you will no longer receive paper Non-Filer Notifications through the mail once this process begins. To provide an email address or update your current email address, please file an amended Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1). If you would prefer to continue to receive Non-Filer Notifications on paper, please file a miscellaneous document (Form 99 for electronic filers), to indicate this preference. Should you have any questions, please contact your Campaign Finance Analyst on our toll-free number 800-424-9530 (at the prompt press 5 to reach the Reports Analysis Division) or our local number 202-694-1130.

Adjusted Limits and Threshold Announced.

Thu, 31 Jan 2013 08:56:29 -0500

The Commission has announced the adjusted contribution limits for 2013-14 elections, as well as the coordinated party expenditure limits and lobbyist bundling threshold for 2013.

Year-End Reporting Reminder

Fri, 25 Jan 2013 15:01:39 -0500

Year-End reports covering activity through December 31 are due Thursday, January 31. Staff in the Reports Analysis Division and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm EST on January 31 to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4. The E-Filing Office can also be reached locally at 202-694-1307. An additional note: Authorized committees for 2012 candidates who were not in the general election must file a Post-Election Detailed Summary Page [Instructions] with this report.

Request for Comment on the Enforcement Process

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 11:38:15 -0500

On January 18, the Commission published in the Federal Register a Notice of Request for Comment on the Enforcement Process. Public comments are due on or before April 19, 2013.

Start Off the New Election Cycle with Training!

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 10:06:48 -0500

The Commission has several workshops and online webinars coming up in the next few months. This Wednesday (1/16), the Commission will host year-end reporting workshops for PACs and party committees and will present comparable webinars for candidates next week (1/23). On February 13, the Commission will help new candidates prepare for 2014 with an online webinar, "Candidate 101: Preparing for the Next Election Cycle." Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables for details, and watch for information coming soon about our spring seminars for candidates, parties and PACs.

Mark Your Calendars! FEC Reporting in 2013.

Mon, 7 Jan 2013 09:14:31 -0500

The Commission has posted the schedule for FEC reports that are due in 2013 at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates_2013.shtml. An overview of FEC reporting requirements for 2013 is also available at http://www.fec.gov/pages/fecrecord/2013/january/reportsduein2013.shtml. The Commission will hostreporting workshops for PACs and party committees on January 16 and for candidates on January 23 to help filers prepare their year-end reports due January 31.

Limits for 2013-14 Coming Soon!

Mon, 17 Dec 2012 08:55:55 -0500

Some of the contribution limits set forth in the federal campaign finance laws are adjusted every election cycle to account for changes in the consumer price index (CPI). In odd-numbered years, the FEC publishes the adjusted limits immediately after it receives the CPI figures from the Department of Labor -- typically in late January or early February. Until then, the Commission encourages donors not to exceed the limits for the previous election cycle.

Donations to the Inaugural Committee

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 10:13:30 -0500

Apart from a ban on donations from foreign nationals, the federal campaign finance law and FEC regulations do not restrict donations to inaugural committees. However, the inaugural committee must file a report on FEC Form 13 [Instructions] no later than 90 days after the Inauguration. On this report, the committee discloses the full names and addresses of each person or entity that donates $200 or more in the aggregate to the committee. See 11 CFR 104.21.

FEC Post-General Report Due December 6

Mon, 3 Dec 2012 12:04:20 -0500

All PACs, party committees and general election candidates must file a Post-General Report (30G) by Thursday, December 6. This report covers activity from the close of books for your last report through November 26. Presidential, House and Senate campaigns must use the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page [Presidential Version / Instructions][House/Senate Version/Instructions] to segregate pre-election activity from post-election activity. Staff in the FEC’s Reports Analysis Division and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 p.m. (EST) Thursday to help filers with any last-minute questions.

Reporting Your Move To or From Washington, D.C.

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 09:23:07 -0500

Campaigns of retiring officeholders should review Advisory Opinion 2010-26, in which the Commission found that a retiring Congressman could use campaign funds to pay temporary storage costs associated with the move back to his home because those costs were an ordinary and necessary expense incurred in connection with his duties as a holder of Federal office and not an illegal "personal use" of campaign funds. The costs were reportable as "other disbursements" on Line 21 of FEC Form 3, with the specific payee(s) and purpose noted. Likewise, in Advisory Opinion 1980-138, the Commission concluded that a Senator-elect could use campaign funds to pay the expense of moving himself and his family to Washington, D.C. for similar reasons, and with the costs similarly reported.

'Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings.

Tue, 20 Nov 2012 10:00:44 -0500

The same disclaimer rules that apply to campaign-related mailings apply to holiday greeting cards as well, even though they usually do not solicit funds or contain express advocacy. If a campaign sends out more than 500 holiday greetings, (i.e., a mass mailing) it must include a box on the card to inform recipients that it was paid for by the campaign committee. A PAC or party committee that sends a holiday mass mailing must include a box on the card that lets recipients know the committee paid for it, identifies the committee's full name and street address, phone number or web address, and states that the communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. For details and examples, see the Commission's brochure, Special Notices on Political Ads and Solicitations.

New Election Cycle Begins

Tue, 13 Nov 2012 11:07:49 -0500

November 7, 2012, marked the beginning of a new election cycle for 2014 House campaigns, 2016 Presidential campaigns and 2018 Senate campaigns. For reporting purposes, campaigns aggregate receipts and disbursements on an election cycle basis. As a result, all 2012 campaigns must separate--both in their internal records and on their FEC reports--activity that occurred on or after November 7 from activity that occurred prior to that date, regardless of which election it relates to. The campaigns will disclose their separate election-cycle receipts and disbursements on the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page (Instructions) [Presidential Campaign Version / Instructions] required with the Post-General election report due December 6 (or for campaigns that were not in the general election, with the Year-End report due January 31).

Guidance for Filers Affected by Hurricane Sandy.

Wed, 31 Oct 2012 08:47:45 -0400

During this final week before the November 6 election, 24- and 48-hour reports/notices are required for certain last-minute independent expenditures, electioneering communications and contributions. Hurricane Sandy could affect some committees' ability to submit these filings and the Commission's ability to accept them.
The Federal Election Campaign Act does not permit the Commission to grant extensions of filing deadlines. Committees must make their "best efforts" to file in a timely manner. The Commission will consider a late filer to have made best efforts if the filer can demonstrate it: -Was prevented from filing in a timely manner by reasonably unforeseen circumstances that were beyond its control; and -Filed the report no later than 24 hours after the end of such circumstances.
FEC regulations identify some specific circumstances that qualify for the "best efforts" defense. They include: -Failure of Commission computers or Commission-provided software after the committee sought technical assistance from Commission staff and resources; -Widespread disruption of information transmissions over the Internet not caused by the Commission’s or committee’s own computers or Internet service provider; and -Severe weather or other disaster-related incident.
Circumstances that will not meet the "best efforts" defense include: -Negligence; -Delays caused by committee vendors or contractors; -Illness, inexperience or unavailability of the treasurer or other staff; -Committee computer, software or Internet service provider failures; -Committee’s failure to know filing dates or to use filing software properly.
For detailed information, please consult the Final Rules and Explanation and Justification on Best Efforts in Administrative Fine Challenges.

Last-Minute Filing Frenzy!

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 11:41:31 -0400

For some committees, the pre-general report will be the final FEC filing required before Election Day. Many filers, however, may be required to submit additional notices to disclose last-minute activity. Campaign committees must disclose within 48 hours any contribution of $1,000 or more received between October 18 and November 3. (File FEC Form 6 [Instructions] or our online webform.) Individuals and groups making electioneering communications that aggregate $10,000 or more must also file 24-Hour Reports to disclose the funds they raised and spent. (Use FEC Form 9 [Instructions] [Online Webform].) PACs, party committees and others making independent expenditures that aggregate $1,000 or more and are made after 10/17 but more than 24 hours before Election Day must file 24-Hour Reports to disclose the expenditures. PACs (including Super PACs) and party committees report such expenditures using Schedule E [PDF] [Instructions] [Online Webform]. Unregistered individuals/groups use FEC Form 5 [PDF] [Instructions] [Online Webform].

Do I Have to File a Pre-General Report?

Mon, 15 Oct 2012 09:53:32 -0400

If you are a monthly filer or an authorized committee of a candidate in the 2012 general election, the answer is automatically YES. If you are a quarterly filing PAC or party committee, you must file a pre-general report only if your committee made contributions or expenditures in connection with the general election between October 1 and October 17, 2012. The report is due Thursday, October 25. (Please note that monthly filing PACs/party committees also must file their regular monthly report covering September on Saturday, October 20. The FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays, so filers should plan accordingly.) Additional reporting information, including a complete list of filing dates, is available on our Reporting Dates web page. For help with your reports, please consult the sources listed in last week’s tip (link).

FEC Quarterly Reports Due October 15

Thu, 11 Oct 2012 08:33:55 -0400

Reminder: Quarterly reports are due Monday, October 15. If you need last-minute help with your FEC report, here are some resources: Every political committee registered with the FEC has a Campaign Finance Analyst who reviews its reports to ensure that they are accurate and complete. That Analyst is also available to answer your reporting questions. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Communications Specialists are also available to assist filers with reporting questions. (Note: Tricky issues are best referred to your Analyst, since he/she will be reviewing your report.) To reach these FEC staff members, call toll-free 1-800/424-9530 (press 5 to reach your Analyst or 6 to speak to a Specialist). Reporting help is also available on-line at http://www.fec.gov/info/filing.shtml and in our Campaign Guides. For electronic filing assistance, contact the tech support number for your software vendor. FECFile users may call 1-800/424-9530 (extension 1307) for technical assistance. Staff in the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm (EDT) on Monday, October 15, to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports.

Last-Minute Get-Out-the-Vote Activity by Party Committees

Mon, 1 Oct 2012 09:42:20 -0400

Party committees conducting GOTV activity now should be aware that such activity is considered to be federal election activity (FEA) under the Act. As such, it must be paid for with federal funds or with an allocation between federal and Levin (or Levin-eligible) funds. Engaging in reportable FEA will trigger monthly filing requirements for the committee. GOTV activity conducted on behalf of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominees does not result in a contribution to the campaign provided that the payment is not for general public communications or political advertising and does not come from funds designated for such candidates, and that the activity is conducted by volunteers. For more information, see this Record news article on FEA, the FEC's brochure on local party activity and Chapter 8 of the Campaign Guide for Political Party Committees.

New FEC Tools Now Available for Looking Up Campaign Finance Data.

Mon, 24 Sep 2012 09:32:06 -0400

On September 20, the Commission introduced its Candidate and Committee Viewer and an enhanced Electronic Filing RSS feed. These two new disclosure tools are designed to help the public access federal campaign finance data and information more quickly and efficiently. Learn more here.

September Filing Reminder.

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 11:10:51 -0400

Committees that file monthly have a report due Thursday, September 20, covering the month of August. Quarterly filers' next scheduled report is due October 15, and covers the third quarter of 2012. Unlike monthly filers, quarterly filers that make contributions or expenditures in connection with special or primary elections may also have to file additional pre- and/or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special or primary elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Sign Up Now for the Pre-Election Reporting Roundtable Workshops!

Mon, 10 Sep 2012 11:58:06 -0400

To help committees prepare for pre-election reporting, the Commission will offer workshops on FEC reporting and its free FECFile software at its headquarters in Washington, DC on Wednesday, October 3. Separate workshops will be offered for PACs and party committees and for candidates. A webinar option is available for those who cannot attend in person. For more information, or to sign up, go to http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables.

Electioneering Communications General Election Filing Period Begins This Friday

Tue, 4 Sep 2012 11:23:23 -0400

The electioneering communications period for the general election begins on Friday, September 7 and runs through November 6. Any person who makes electioneering communications that aggregate more than $10,000 during this time period must file disclosure statements with the Commission within 24 hours of the date the electioneering communication is publicly distributed. For more information, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_ec_dates_2012.shtml.

Citizen's Guide to Supporting Federal Candidates

Mon, 27 Aug 2012 08:51:48 -0400

Looking for a simple way to educate supporters or volunteers on campaign finance rules for individuals wishing to support candidates? Check out our updated video, A Citizen's Guide to Supporting Federal Candidates, on FECTube!

Groups that Register Voluntarily

Mon, 20 Aug 2012 11:36:10 -0400

The Commission occasionally receives calls from groups that have chosen to register with the FEC as political committees before they were technically required to under the campaign finance law. See 2 U.S.C. §431(4)(A). Since these groups do not meet the legal definition of “political committee,” they are not required to file reports on FEC Form 3X. Unfortunately, the Commission has no way of knowing that, and can only assume that these groups registered because they triggered the law’s filing requirements. For that reason, we recommend that these groups either file reports voluntarily or submit a statement when reports are due indicating that they have not reached the $1,000 political committee registration threshold. Doing so will help the groups avoid receiving "failure to file" notices from the FEC when reports are due.

Monthly/Primary/Special Election Reporting Reminders

Mon, 13 Aug 2012 11:58:49 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded they have a report due, Monday, August 20, covering the month of July. Quarterly filers do not have a regularly scheduled report due this month, but if they have made contributions or expenditures in connection with special or primary elections held in July, August or September they may also have to file additional reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special or primary elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Sign Up Now for the Pre-Election Communications Roundtable Workshop!

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 10:04:11 -0400

The Commission will offer a workshop on pre-election communications at its headquarters in Washington, DC, on Tuesday, August 28. Topics will include electioneering communications, coordinated communications and independent expenditures. A webinar option is available for those who cannot attend in person. For more information, or to sign up, go to http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables.

FEC Statement on Van Hollen v. FEC

Mon, 30 Jul 2012 09:58:11 -0400

The Commission has posted a public statement regarding disclosure of electioneering communications that outlines how the agency will comply with the district court's decision in Van Hollen v. FEC. Effective March 30, 2012, persons making disbursements for electioneering communications must report the name and address of each donor who donated an amount aggregating $1,000 or more to the person making the disbursement, aggregating since the first day of the preceding calendar year. More detailed information is available in the statement. Persons with specific questions regarding their reporting obligations may contact the Reports Analysis Division at (800) 424-9350 (at the prompt, press 5). Others may contact the Information Division at (800) 424-9530 (press 6).

Contributions to Presidential Candidates

Mon, 23 Jul 2012 10:11:30 -0400

An individual may contribute up to $2,500 (multicandidate PAC: $5,000) to a Presidential candidate in the primary election campaign, whether or not the candidate accepts matching funds. (The $2,500 limit applies to the entire primary process, rather than to a single primary held in a particular state.) The primary election period ends on the date that the candidate accepts the nomination of the party. (For Republicans, that date will be 8/30/12, and for Democrats, that date will be 9/6/12.)
After that date, a major party nominee who chooses to accept public funding for the general election may not accept any private contributions to further his election. An individual, however, may contribute up to $2,500 to the legal/accounting compliance fund of a publicly funded major party nominee (multicandidate PAC: $5,000). In the case of a major party nominee who is not publicly funded, an individual may contribute up to $2,500 (multicandidate PAC: $5,000) to the general election campaign. For more information, see the brochure Public Funding of Presidential Elections.

Now Appearing at Your County Fair: FEC Disclaimers!

Mon, 16 Jul 2012 11:20:53 -0400

If your committee plans to maintain a booth or other presence at your county or state fair, be sure the literature you are distributing contains the appropriate disclaimer statements. Some items, such as bumper stickers, pins and tee-shirts, are exempt. Other items, such as brochures and yard signs, need a printed statement, enclosed in a box, that indicates who has paid for the communication, and if paid for by a party committee or PAC, whether it was authorized by a campaign. For more information, see the brochure Special Notices on Political Ads and Solicitations.

July Filing Reminder

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 09:25:12 -0400

Quarterly filers have a report due on Sunday, July 15 (covering activity through June 30) and monthly filers have a report due on Friday, July 20 (covering the month of June). Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Quarterly reports sent by registered, certified or overnight mail must be postmarked no later than July 15, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, July 13 for quarterly filers). Electronic filers have until 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on the due date of the report to submit their reports on time. (Staff in the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm (EDT) on Friday, July 13, to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4 or call 202-694-1307.) Active in a primary election? See the Compliance Map and click on your state (or the state in which your quarterly filing PAC or party committee is making contributions or expenditures) for specific filing information pertinent to that primary.

Two Emails on Form 1

Mon, 2 Jul 2012 15:01:18 -0400

Political committees now have the option to add a second email address to their contact information on FEC Form 1, the Statement of Organization. The Commission added the second address field to Form 1 and to the agency’s disclosure database in response to requests from filers who wanted to receive FEC correspondence at more than one email address. The option is available to all committees—new and existing; candidates, parties and PACs; paper and electronic filers. Committees should enter one email address in each of the two boxes provided. If your electronic filing software provides only one box, enter both addresses, separated by a comma or semi-colon. Should you have any questions, please contact your committee’s Campaign Finance Analyst at 800-424-9530 (and select option 5).

Sign Up Now for Summer Reporting Roundtable Workshops.

Mon, 25 Jun 2012 12:32:04 -0400

The Commission will offer workshops on FEC reporting and its free FECFile software at its headquarters in Washington, DC on Wednesday, July 11. Separate workshops will be offered for PACs and party committees and for candidates. A webinar option is available for those who cannot attend in person. For more information, or to sign up, go to http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables<\a>.

Commission Sets Rulemaking Priorities for 2012.

Tue, 19 Jun 2012 08:12:41 -0400

The Commission recently approved and made public its rulemaking priorities for the remainder of 2012. The main projects will implement recent court decisions regarding independent spending by both political committees and corporations and labor organizations. For more information, see this Record article.

June Filing Reminder

Tue, 12 Jun 2012 10:46:34 -0400

Committees that file monthly have a report due Wednesday, June 20, covering the month of May 2012. Quarterly filers' next scheduled report is due July 15, and covers the second quarter of 2012. Unlike monthly filers, quarterly filers that make contributions or expenditures in connection with special or primary elections may also have to file additional pre- and/or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special or primary elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Disclosing the Purposes of Disbursements

Mon, 4 Jun 2012 09:14:39 -0400

When disclosing expenditures on FEC reports, committees must ensure the purpose of the disbursement, coupled with the identity of the payee, is sufficiently specific that the reader could easily discern why the expenditure was made. In order to help committees comply with this requirement, the Reports Analysis Division has posted examples of adequate purpose descriptions.

Updated Contact Information for Other Election Agencies Available

Tue, 29 May 2012 10:51:14 -0400

The 2012 edition of the Combined Federal/State Disclosure and Election Directory is available in the Public Records section of the Commission website. This publication identifies the federal and state agencies responsible for the disclosure of campaign finances, lobbying, personal finances, public financing, candidates on the ballot, election results, spending on state initiatives and other financial filings.

How to Register a Super PAC

Mon, 21 May 2012 13:05:30 -0400

To register an Independent Expenditure-Only Political Committee (aka "Super PAC"), complete FEC Form 1 (Statement of Organization), checking box 5(f) under "Type of Committee." File the completed form with the FEC, along with a letter clarifying your intent to function as a Super PAC. A Commission-approved template is available on our website. A new registrant or other paper filer may submit the letter and form by registered/certified mail or by overnight mail. Both documents must be signed by the committee's treasurer. Existing committees that file electronically may amend their Statement of Organization by submitting the text of the letter using Form 99. For additional information, see FEC Advisory Opinions 2010-09 and 2010-11.

May Reporting Reminder

Tue, 15 May 2012 08:40:42 -0400

Committees that file monthly have a report due Sunday, May 20, covering the month of April 2012. Please note that the FEC does not have the authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends. Filers should plan accordingly. Quarterly filers do not have a regularly scheduled report due this month, but if they have made contributions or expenditures in connection with special or primary elections held in April, May or June, they may also have to file additional reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special or primary elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Get FEC Updates on Twitter @fecupdates!

Tue, 8 May 2012 12:52:38 -0400

Did you know the FEC is on Twitter? Follow @fecupdates for breaking FEC news and updates, including links to press releases, open meeting livestreams, and other FEC-related developments.

National Convention Delegate FAQ

Tue, 1 May 2012 10:47:40 -0400

Every four years at this time, we begin to receive calls asking about the reporting requirements and contribution rules that apply to national convention delegates. Individual delegates are not required to register or file regular reports of the funds they raise and spend for their personal delegate activity; however, delegates acting as a group may have to file reports as a delegate committee. In regard to rules for contributions, there are no monetary limits on contributions made to individual delegates, but delegates may not accept contributions from any source that is prohibited from making contributions in connection with federal elections (e.g., corporations, labor organizations and foreign nationals). For more information, see this article.

Has Redistricting Affected Your Campaign?

Tue, 24 Apr 2012 13:05:07 -0400

Several callers affected by redistricting have asked how this process affects their House campaign's contribution limits and reporting requirements. In FEC Advisory Opinion 1982-22, the Commission ruled that the office of Representative of the United States is defined not by the geographical boundaries of the particular district which elects it but rather by the State which it represents. Thus, a candidate whose district has changed is not entitled to a new contribution limit should the district boundaries change. Although the candidate does not have to set up a new principal campaign committee, he or she must amend FEC Forms 1 and 2 to reflect the new district number within ten days of the completion of the state's redistricting process.

Updated Edition of FEC Regulations Now Available

Mon, 16 Apr 2012 13:02:47 -0400

The 2012 edition of Title 11, Code of Federal Regulations is now available online and in print from the FEC's Information Division. To order a hard copy, call 1-800/424-9530 (press 6), or send an email to info@fec.gov requesting "11 CFR." Alternatively, click this link to access and download the compilation in PDF or XML format.

April Filing Reminder

Tue, 10 Apr 2012 08:49:58 -0400

Monthly filers have a report due Friday, April 20, covering the month of March, and Quarterly filers have a report due Sunday, April 15, covering from the close of books of their last report through March 31. Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Quarterly reports sent by registered, certified or overnight mail must be postmarked no later than April 15, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, April 13 for quarterly filers). Electronic filers have until 11:59 p.m. (EDT) on the due date of the report to submit their reports on time.

Adjusted Q1 Requirements for Some Filers.

Mon, 2 Apr 2012 13:29:13 -0400

All quarterly filers have at least one report due in April. For most, it’s the quarterly report that covers 1/1 to 3/31 and is due Sunday, 4/15. (Sorry, we don’t have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays.) Committees that have filed pre-primary or special election reports during the first quarter should adjust the coverage period for their quarterly report accordingly to avoid duplicative reporting.

The Commission has waived the quarterly report for committees that file pre-primary reports for the 4/17 special election in Arizona’s 8th district and/or the 4/24 Pennsylvania primary. To confirm your committee’s filing requirements, please review the reporting information on our website. As always, if you have questions, please call 1-800/424-9530.

New Campaign Finance Disclosure Web Portal Now Available

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 09:23:52 -0400

The Federal Election Commission has introduced a new campaign finance disclosure portalto simplify access to the wide range of disclosure data available on the agency’s website. The disclosure portal provides a single point of entry to federal campaign finance data. It features easily navigable maps, as well as a variety of search tools that will help users make the best use of the Commission’s data sources. Users can download many of the data sets available through the Disclosure Portal to perform their own analyses.

March Reporting Reminder

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 09:18:35 -0400

Committees that file monthly have a report due Tuesday, March 20, covering the month of February 2012. Quarterly filers' next scheduled report is due April 15, and covers the first quarter of 2012. Unlike monthly filers, quarterly filers that make contributions or expenditures in connection with special or primary elections may also have to file additional pre- and/or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special or primary elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Primary Season Reporting is Underway!

Mon, 12 Mar 2012 13:03:28 -0400

Some Congressional and Senatorial campaigns, and quarterly-filing PACs and party committees that support or oppose them, have pre-primary or pre-convention reports due this month. Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_primary_dates_2012.shtml for a complete list of all pre-election reporting dates. As always, monthly filers do not need to worry about pre-primary reporting. If you are a quarterly filing PAC or party committee and wish to switch to monthly filing to avoid filing multiple pre-primary reports, attach a letter (paper filers) or a Form 99 (electronic filers) to your next report indicating that you will now be filing reports on the other schedule.

Do You Know Who Reviews Your Reports?

Mon, 5 Mar 2012 08:34:37 -0500

Register now for Last Candidate/Party Training for 2012!

Mon, 27 Feb 2012 09:32:04 -0500

The FEC is holding its final seminar of the 2012 election cycle for House and Senate campaigns and political party committees on Wednesday, March 21 in Washington, DC. A webinar option is also available for those who cannot attend in person. Space in both the seminar and the webinar is limited, so register now to secure your spot!

FEC Publishes Adjusted Limits and Thresholds

Tue, 21 Feb 2012 10:29:25 -0500

Today, the Commission published its Price Index Adjustments for Expenditure Limitations and Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure Threshold in the Federal Register. This annual notice informs the public of any adjustments in expenditure limitations as well as the lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold. For 2012, the lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold has increased to $16,700. The coordinated party expenditure limit for the general election for House races will be $45,600 ($91,200 in those states with only one Congressional district). The coordinated party limits for the general election for Senate races vary by State; see the chart at http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_441ad_2012.shtml for a table of those limits.

Reports Due on Presidents' Day

Mon, 13 Feb 2012 09:20:56 -0500

Monthly filers have a report due on Monday, February 20 - the Presidents' Day holiday. The Commission does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on federal holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Reports sent by Registered, Certified or Overnight Mail must be postmarked no later than February 20, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, February 17). Electronic filers have until 11:59 (EST) on February 20 to submit their reports on time. While the FEC will be closed on the 20th, staff in the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm (EST) on Friday, February 17, to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4 or call 202-694-1307.

The Reports Analysis Division is Now Online!

Mon, 6 Feb 2012 08:58:52 -0500

The Reports Analysis Division (RAD) - the FEC division that reviews your campaign finance reports - now has its own home page on the agency's website. This new web page describes the RAD review process and includes frequently asked questions (FAQ's) on reporting issues, Requests for Additional Information (RFAI's) and other RAD processes. The page has been organized by committee type (candidate, party, PAC) to help filers find the resources most relevant to them, all in one place.

Year-End Reporting Due January 31

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 11:28:58 -0500

All committees are reminded that the Year-End report is due Tuesday, January 31, covering from the date your last report left off through December 31. Staff in the Reports Analysis Division and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm EST on January 31 to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4. The E-Filing Office can also be reached locally at 202-694-1307.

Register Now for the FEC's ONLY Two-Day Conference in 2012!

Mon, 23 Jan 2012 10:30:38 -0500

There is still time to register for the FEC's two-day conference in Miami, Florida, February 22-23. Treasurers and others looking for our most comprehensive training on federal campaign finance law requirements will want to attend this conference, because this will be the only full two-day training conference offered by the FEC in 2012. Register now before the price goes up on January 27!

Date Made / Date Received

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 12:27:06 -0500

Under FEC rules, the date a donor makes a contribution to a candidate and the date the campaign receives it are both important, but for different reasons.
The date a contribution is made determines which per-election limit the contribution counts against. For example, an undesignated contribution made (i.e., postmarked or hand-delivered) on or before the date of the primary election counts against the donor’s limit for that election. Undesignated contributions made after that date count toward the limit for the candidate’s next election (e.g., the general election).
The date a campaign receives a contribution is the date it lists on its FEC reports. For example, campaigns will include on their upcoming Year-End reports (due January 31) only those contributions received by December 31 (the close of books for that report). A contribution received on January 1 will be reported on the committee's first report covering 2012 activity, even if the contribution was made in 2011. More information on "Date Made" and "Date Received" may be found on page 23 of the Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates.

Switching Filing Frequency?

Mon, 9 Jan 2012 13:13:02 -0500

Party committees that do not conduct reportable federal election activity and all PACs have the option to choose to file reports on a "monthly" or "quarterly" filing schedule. Some committees prefer to file reports on a monthly basis during a federal election year (such as 2012), and on a less-frequent basis during a nonfederal election year (such as 2011). Unauthorized committees are permitted to switch filing frequencies one time per year. To switch your committee's filing frequency in 2012, attach a letter (paper filers only) or a Form 99 to your year-end report (due January 31) indicating that you will now be filing reports on the other schedule. If you were a quarterly filer in 2011 and wish to remain on that schedule, you do not need to submit a request, but be aware that in election years, quarterly filers file a minimum of five reports (three quarterly reports, a Post-General, and a Year-End report) and may have to file additional pre-primary and pre-general election reports, depending on their activity.

2012 Reporting Dates Are Now Available

Tue, 3 Jan 2012 13:24:54 -0500

The Commission has posted on its web site the 2012 reporting schedules for candidates, parties and PACs. Grab your new calendar and make a note of the due dates!

Happy New Year from the FEC

Fri, 23 Dec 2011 09:50:42 -0500

The FEC will be closed Monday, January 2. The regular weekly tip will return in January, along with updated reporting schedules, announcements of outreach opportunities and postings of other important information for committee treasurers.

December Reporting Reminder

Tue, 20 Dec 2011 10:26:41 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Tuesday, December 20, covering the month of November. Also, filers active in the Iowa Presidential caucus or the New Hampshire Presidential primary should be aware that the 24-hour notice reporting periods are now active in those States for electioneering communications (made by individuals, corporations and unions) and independent expenditures (made by individuals, PACs, corporations and unions).

Avoid the Election-Year Rush, Sign-Up Now for FEC Training!

Mon, 12 Dec 2011 11:49:30 -0500

Looking for training on FEC regulations and reporting? Registration has already begun for the FEC's January 11 Year-End reporting and e-filing roundtables for PACs, House/Senate campaigns and political party committees. (Note: The e-filing workshop for PACs/party committees is already sold out; space is available in all other workshops on that day.) For those desiring comprehensive training, the Commission will hold its final two-day conference of the election cycle in Miami, Florida on February 22-23, 2012. Register now for best rates!

FAQs for the Presidential Primary Season

Mon, 5 Dec 2011 09:07:33 -0500

With the first Presidential primaries and caucuses less than a month away, the Commission has begun to receive questions about the filing requirements associated with these elections:

1. Where can I find a list of the primary election dates? The complete list is available on our web site at http://www.fec.gov/pubrec/fe2012/2012pdates.pdf.

2. What are the election year filing requirements for Presidential campaigns? Presidential campaigns that raise or spend $100,000 or more, or expect to do so, must file monthly reports during 2012. If the campaign is below this financial threshold, it must file reports on a quarterly schedule. All Presidential campaigns must file a year end report on January 31, 2012. See http://www.fec.gov/pages/report_notices/2011/ye_prez_11.shtml for your complete filing schedule.

3. Do PACs or parties have to file pre-election reports if they participate in the primaries or caucuses? If the committee is a monthly filer, no. If the committee is a quarterly filer and makes contributions or expenditures (including independent expenditures) in connection with a Presidential primary election, it must also file a Pre-Election Report, if the activity was not previously reported. Note, however, that the Commission has not required pre-election reports for caucuses (See AO 1979-71). The FEC encourages quarterly filing PACs and party committees that make multiple contributions in different primaries to consider switching to monthly filing in order to simplify their reporting schedule. Committees who wish to change their reporting schedule must notify the Commission in writing when filing a report under the committee's current schedule.

For more answers to common questions, check out our Quick Answers page at http://www.fec.gov/ans/answers.shtml.

Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings.

Tue, 29 Nov 2011 13:17:18 -0500

Planning for 2012 Reporting

Tue, 22 Nov 2011 08:53:11 -0500

To assist committees and individuals who have inquired about the FEC reporting schedule for next year, the FEC has added a "Looking Ahead to 2012" section on the Reporting Dates web page. This section links to the charts outlining the 2012 independent expenditure, electioneering communications, coordinated communications and Federal Election Activity periods, as well as the Congressional pre-primary report deadlines for the election dates we currently have. Note that many dates are still pending and these charts will be updated as additional election dates come in.

November Reporting Reminder

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 10:43:44 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Sunday, November 20, covering the month of October. Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Reports sent by Registered, Certified or Overnight Mail must be postmarked no later than November 20, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, November 18). Electronic filers have until 11:59 (EST) on November 20 to submit their reports on time.

Internet Rulemaking Comments due this Monday, November 14

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 08:53:18 -0500

The FEC published an Advance Notice of Proposed Rulemaking seeking comments on whether and how the Commission should revise its rules at 11 CFR 110.11 regarding disclaimer requirements for certain Internet communications. Commenters are encouraged to submit comments electronically via the Commission’s website at http://www.fec.gov/fosers to ensure timely receipt and consideration. For more information and instructions on how to file comments, see the linked Advance NPRM.

Candidate Guide (2011 Edition) Now Available in Hard Copy

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 08:23:29 -0400

Printed versions of the August 2011 updated version of the FEC's Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates and Committees are now available free of charge from the FEC's Information Division. To order, call (800)424-9530 (press 6) or send an email to info@fec.gov.

Message from the Reports Analysis Division (RAD): Process Change Notification

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 10:19:53 -0400

The Reports Analysis Division (RAD) will fully implement a process change to send Requests for Additional Information (RFAIs) via e-mail on October 28, 2011. Please note that you will no longer receive paper RFAIs through the mail once this process begins. To provide an e-mail address or update your current e-mail address, please file an amended Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1). If you would prefer to continue to receive RFAIs on paper, please file a miscellaneous document (Form 99 for electronic filers), to indicate this preference. Should you have any questions, please contact your Campaign Finance Analyst on our toll-free number (800) 424-9530 (at the prompt press 5 to reach the Reports Analysis Division) or our local number (202) 694-1130.

Monthly/Special Election Reporting Reminders

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 09:12:14 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded they have a report due Thursday, October 20, covering the month of September. Quarterly filers do not have a report due that day. However, unlike monthly filers, if quarterly filers make contributions or expenditures in connection with special elections (currently ongoing in Nevada, New York and Oregon), they may have to file additional pre- or post-election reports. Thus quarterly filers should read the information posted at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates_2011.shtml#special if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Campaigns must file Quarterly Reports by October 15

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 11:24:32 -0400

Reminder: Quarterly reports by authorized committees are due Saturday, October 15. Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Reports sent by Registered, Certified or Overnight Mail must be postmarked no later than October 15, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, October 14). Electronic filers have until 11:59 (EDT) on October 15 to submit their reports on time. If you need last-minute help with your FEC report, here are some resources: Every political committee registered with the FEC has a Campaign Finance Analyst who reviews its reports to ensure that they are accurate and complete. That Analyst is also available to answer your reporting questions. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Communications Specialists are also available to assist filers with reporting questions. (Note: Tricky issues are best referred to your Analyst, since he/she will be reviewing your report.) To reach these FEC staff members, call toll-free 1-800/424-9530 (press 5 to reach your Analyst or 6 to speak to a Specialist). Reporting help is also available on-line at http://www.fec.gov/info/filing.shtml and in our Campaign Guides. For electronic filing assistance, contact the tech support number for your software vendor. FECFile users may call 1-800/424-9530 (extension 1307) for technical assistance. RAD analysts and FECFile tech support will be available until 8 p.m. EDT Friday, October 14.

Electronic Filing Update

Mon, 3 Oct 2011 08:13:31 -0400

As noted in our tip of September 12, as of September 26, all electronic filers must now use v.8 of the electronic filing specifications. Current FECFile users need only open their software and accept the automatic update. Committees using commercial filing software should contact their vendors as soon as possible for more information about the latest release. If you have any questions, please call the Electronic Filing Office at (202)694-1307 or (800)424-9530, x1307.

Register Now for FEC Training!

Mon, 26 Sep 2011 10:16:20 -0400

The FEC will host its only West Coast conference this election cycle on October 25-26, in San Diego, CA. Workshops will explain the federal campaign finance rules that apply to candidate committees, party committees and corporate/labor/trade PACs. Other PACs are encouraged to register for our November 16 Seminar for Nonconnected Committees, to be held at FEC headquarters in Washington, DC. Registration is now open for both of these training events; simply click the links to see the agenda and registration information for each program.

New Candidate Guide Available

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 08:26:59 -0400

The new 2011 edition of the Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates and Committees is now available on the FEC website. Paper copies of the Guide will be available later this year.

Electronic Filing Update

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 13:32:09 -0400

Revised electronic filing specifications (v.8) have been released. Beginning September 26, only filings formatted in Version 8 will be accepted. Current FECFile users need only open their software (after 9/26) and accept the automatic update. Committees using commercial filing software should contact their vendors for more information about the latest release. If you have any questions, please call the Electronic Filing Office at: (202) 694-1307 or (800) 424-9530 ext. 1307.

Message from the Reports Analysis Division (RAD) - Process Change Notification

Thu, 1 Sep 2011 09:01:56 -0400

The Reports Analysis Division (RAD) will begin sending Requests for Additional Information (RFAIs) via e-mail in October 2011. Please note that you will no longer receive paper RFAIs through the mail once this process begins. To provide an e-mail address or update your current e-mail address, please file an amended Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1). If you would prefer to continue to receive RFAIs on paper, please file a miscellaneous document (Form 99 for electronic filers), to indicate this preference. Should you have any questions, please contact your Campaign Finance Analyst on our toll-free number (800) 424-9530 (at the prompt press 5 to reach the Reports Analysis Division) or our local number (202) 694-1130.

Special Election Update

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 08:23:41 -0400

Upcoming special general elections in Nevada's 2nd and New York's 9th Congressional districts require pre-election reports due on Thursday, September 1. The reports are required for all candidates in these two special general elections, as well as from any quarterly-filing PAC or party committee that has made previously undisclosed contributions or expenditures in connection with these elections. For more information, see the Federal Register notice for each election [ NV/02 | NY/09 ]. Also, filing information is now available for the upcoming special election in Oregon's 2nd Congressional district.

August Reporting Reminder

Wed, 17 Aug 2011 08:35:20 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Saturday, August 20, covering the month of July. Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Reports sent by Registered, Certified or Overnight Mail must be postmarked no later than August 20, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, August 20). Electronic filers have until 11:59 (EDT) on August 20 to submit their reports on time.

Looking for Campaign Finance Law Training?

Mon, 8 Aug 2011 09:13:00 -0400

Next year is an election year, so this is good time to update your knowledge of FEC rules and practices to prepare for the 2012 elections. The FEC is now accepting registrations for its September 7-8 conference in Minneapolis, MN. Intended for House and Senate campaigns, corporate/labor/trade PACs, and state and local political party committees, this conference will offer workshops on fundraising, reporting and communications. All workshops focus on best practices and ways to avoid compliance problems. Register before August 12 and take advantage of an early registration fee discount!

New FEC Record

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 11:34:48 -0400

The new FEC Record is now available! In an effort to provide more timely and user-friendly information, we have converted the Record from a print-based online publication to a wholly web-based format that better utilizes the medium. We’re excited to improve this already useful resource in a way that will help our readers keep up with FEC-related news better than ever.

Mid-Year Reports Due Sunday, July 31

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:59:30 -0400

All PACs and party committees not filing monthly must file a Mid-Year report due Sunday, July 31. Please note that even though the FEC is not open on the 31st, the statutory filing deadline cannot be extended. Committees-particularly those that file on paper-should plan accordingly to timely file your report. The FEC’s Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be open until 8:00 p.m. (EDT) on Friday, July 29, to help committees complete and file their reports. RAD analysts will be available to answer committees’ questions on reporting specific transactions, and E-Filing staff will also be on hand to address any technical issues filers may encounter. To reach these offices, call 1-800/424-9530 and press 4 for the E-Filing Office or press 5 for RAD. Locally, call RAD at (202) 694-1130 and the E-Filing Office at (202) 694-1307.

July Monthly Reporting Reminder

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 08:37:44 -0400

PACs, party committees and Presidential campaigns filing on a monthly basis are reminded that they have a report due Wednesday, July 20, covering activity through June 30.

July Quarterly/Mid-Year Reporting Reminder

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 12:11:35 -0400

Campaign committees filing on a quarterly filing schedule must file the July Quarterly report, due Friday, July 15 and covering activity through June 30. PACs and party committees that filed on a quarterly basis in 2010 are reminded that because it is a non-election year, they do not file the July Quarterly report. Instead, all PACs and party committees not filing monthly must file a Mid-Year report due Sunday, July 31. The FEC’s Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be open until 8:00 p.m. (EDT) on both Friday, July 15, and Friday, July 29, to help committees complete and file their reports. RAD analysts will be available to answer committees’ questions on reporting specific transactions, and E-Filing staff will also be on hand to address any technical issues filers may encounter. To reach these offices, call 1-800/424-9530 and press 4 for the E-Filing Office or press 5 for RAD. Locally, call RAD at (202) 694-1130 and the E-Filing Office at (202) 694-1307.

FEC Issues Two AOs on "Super PACs."

Tue, 5 Jul 2011 09:05:21 -0400

On June 30, the Commission issued two advisory opinions addressing various questions raised by "independent expenditure-only political committees" ( a.k.a, Super PACs). Links to the advisory opinions, as well as a description of their findings, are available here.

CA/36 Special Runoff Reports Due on 6/30

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 09:57:59 -0400

Candidates running in the July 12 special runoff election in California's 36th Congressional District, and quarterly-filing PACs/party committees that make contributions or expenditures to support or oppose them during the coverage period, must file pre-special runoff election reports on June 30. For more information, click here.

Sign Up Now for Summer Reporting Roundtable Workshops

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 11:36:28 -0400

The Commission will offer workshops on FEC reporting and using FECFile software at its headquarters in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, July 13. Separate workshops will be offered for PACs and party committees and for candidate committees. Openings are still available in all sessions; pre-payment of $25 per workshop required. For more information, or to sign up, go to http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables.

June Reporting Reminder

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 08:40:48 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Monday, June 20, covering the month of May. Quarterly filers do not have a report due that day. However, unlike monthly filers, if quarterly filers make contributions or expenditures in connection with special elections (currently ongoing in Nevada, New York and California), they may have to file additional pre- or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the information posted here if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Supplements Help Your Committee Stay Healthy

Tue, 7 Jun 2011 08:36:00 -0400

Each month, the FEC publishes supplements to update its Campaign Guides for Candidates, Party Committees, Nonconnected Committees and Corporations and Labor Organizations. Reading the appropriate supplement at the beginning of each month is a good way to ensure that your committee complies with the latest rules and "stays healthy."

Procedure Regarding Disclosure of Documents and Information in the Enforcement Process

Tue, 31 May 2011 09:30:27 -0400

The Commission approved an agency procedure for disclosure of documents and information to respondents in enforcement matters, in line with the Commission’s efforts to increase transparency with respect to FEC processes. The policy formally defines the scope of documents the FEC will provide to respondents in enforcement matters brought under the Act, and the agency’s process of disclosing these documents. Statements were issued by Chair Cynthia L. Bauerly, Commissioner Ellen L. Weintraub and Commissioner Steven T. Walther.

Track the Newest Committee Registrations with the FEC

Mon, 23 May 2011 11:08:32 -0400

The FEC's Public Records Office and Press Office have launched a web page to track new committee registrations. Updated daily at 7:00 a.m. Eastern, it is available here. A similar page launched earlier this year tracks Presidential Statements of Candidacy.

May Reporting Reminder

Tue, 17 May 2011 08:33:58 -0400

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due, Friday, May 20, covering the month of April. Quarterly filers do not have a report due that day. However, unlike monthly filers, if quarterly filers make contributions or expenditures in connection with special elections, they may have to file additional pre- or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map if they make contributions/expenditures for special elections, to determine if an additional report is required.

Agency Procedure for Disclosure of Documents and Information in the Enforcement Process

Mon, 9 May 2011 09:13:07 -0400

On May 5, the Commission discussed two draft notices outlining an agency procedure for disclosure of documents and information to respondents in the enforcement process. The discussion of the draft procedures was held over until the next open meeting, scheduled for May 26, to provide an opportunity for public comment on the drafts. Comments will be due by 5 p.m. on May 23 and should be sent via email to documentdisclosure@fec.gov. Click here for the two drafts (Agenda Document No. 11-23 and Agenda Document No. 11-23-A).

Deciding Whether to Become a Candidate?

Mon, 2 May 2011 10:01:01 -0400

Before deciding to campaign for federal office, an individual may want to test the waters - in other words, explore the feasibility of becoming a candidate. An individual who merely test the waters, but does not campaign for office, does not have to register or report as a candidate even if the individual raises more than $5,000—the dollar threshold that would normally trigger registration. Nevertheless, funds raised to test the waters are subject to the Federal Election Campaign Act’s (the Act) contribution limitations and prohibitions. For more information, see this article: [HTML] [PDF].

Contribution Limits in Special Elections

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:06:17 -0400

A special election is considered a separate election with a separate contribution limit. (Note that a special election may itself involve separate special primary, special general and/or special runoff elections. Each would have a separate contribution limit.) When reporting contributions made in connection with a special election, be sure to check the appropriate box for type of election, and indicate that it is a special election (e.g., "2011 special general" in the case of current upcoming special House general elections in CA/36 and NY/26).

Special Election Reporting

Mon, 18 Apr 2011 09:13:59 -0400

Committees involved in two upcoming special elections have reports due in May. In California's 36th district, a pre-general report is due May 5 (covering activity from April 1 through April 27). In New York's 26th District, a pre-general report is due May 12 (covering April 1 through May 4). Quarterly-filing PACs/party committees and other entities supporting or opposing candidates in those elections should review these Federal Register notices [CA/36 | NY/26] to determine their filing requirements.

April Reporting Reminder

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 09:39:38 -0400

Authorized committees have a report due Friday, April 15, covering activity from the closing date of their last report through March 31. (Note: PACs and party committees that filed quarterly in 2010 file on a semi-annual basis in 2011.) Monthly filers have a report due Wednesday, April 20, covering the month of March. All electronic filers should take note of last week's tip and ensure that they’re using version 7 of the electronic filing format.

Update Your Software Now to Prepare for This Month's Reporting.

Tue, 5 Apr 2011 12:56:01 -0400

The latest version of FECFile (Build 7.0.1.0) has been released today, and is available for download at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/updatelist.htm. Reports filed using an earlier version will no longer be accepted. If you use commercial software, contact your vendor to ensure they are using the latest electronic filing format.

Updated Compilation of FEC Regulations Now Available

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 09:43:22 -0400

The 2011 edition of Title 11, Code of Federal Regulations is now available on-line and in print from the FEC's Information Division. To order a hard copy, call 1-800/424-9530 (press 6), or send an e-mail to info@fec.gov requesting "11 CFR." Alternatively, you may click this link to access and download the compilation in PDF or XML format.

New Interpretive Rule on Electronic Redesignations

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 08:57:18 -0400

On March 16, the Commission approved an interpretive rule allowing a specific method of electronic redesignation of contributions that provides a sufficient level of assurance as to a contributor’s identity and intent to redesignate a contribution. The Commission will consider other methods of electronic redesignation that are not explicitly set forth in the interpretive rule on a case-by-case basis, provided that they offer a sufficient degree of assurances.

March Reporting Reminder

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 09:49:37 -0400

Committees that file monthly have a report due Sunday, March 20, covering the month of February 2011. Please note that the FEC does not have authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Filers should plan accordingly. Reports sent by Registered, Certified or Overnight Mail must be postmarked no later than March 20, and paper filings sent by other means must be received by close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, March 18). Electronic filers have until 11:59 (EDT) on March 20 to submit their reports on time.

New Disclosure Search Function Added

Mon, 7 Mar 2011 13:23:14 -0500

The Commission has added a new feature to its Disclosure Data Catalog that allows users to specify the election cycle for the data they are searching. Users can now specify the 2010 or 2012 cycle for data contained in the Campaign and Committee Report by Report Summary section, the Candidate Summary section and the Committee Summary section.

New Online Rulemaking Search Available

Tue, 1 Mar 2011 09:45:30 -0500

The Federal Election Commission has launched a new search system for public documents generated in connection with Commission rulemakings. The Searchable Electronic Rulemaking System allows users to search public documents developed in the course of the Commission's rulemaking process. This system, which can be searched chronologically, by subject or regulation name or number, will replace and expand upon the Commissionâs current, online rulemaking archive. It also provides a new mechanism for the public to comment on ongoing rulemakings.

New Training Video Available for Potential Candidates

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:44:31 -0500

This week, the Information Division added a new presentation to its E-Learning page regarding Testing the Waters. The presentation gives an overview of the rules on funds an individual may raise and spend to test the waters for a potential candidacy without having to register or report with the FEC. You can also view the video on FECTube, the FEC's You Tube channel.

Electronic Filing Requirements Triggered? Paper Reports Will Not Be Accepted.

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 09:50:37 -0500

Reminder: Any committees, individuals or other non-committee entities that meet the $50,000 contributions/expenditures threshold triggering mandatory electronic filing requirements, must file reports electronically rather than on paper. Under 11 CFR 104.18(c), reports filed electronically are defined to include any statement, designation or report required by the Act to be filed with the Commission. Moreover, under 11 CFR 104.18(a)(2), once a filer has exceeded the $50,000 threshold, any report it files on paper will not satisfy filing obligations. Instead, the report will be considered "not filed" and could be subject to Commission action. This requirement (and reminder) extends to not only filings of Form 3, Form 3X or Form 3P (as applicable) by political committees but also to Forms 1, 1M (filed by PACs and party committees) and 6 (filed by campaigns). It also applies to individuals and non-committee entities filing Forms 5, 7 and 9 (disclosing independent expenditures, communication costs and electioneering communications respectively) and to convention committees filing Form 4. For more information on the rules that apply to electronic filing, see the Commission's Electronic Filing Overview.

New Contribution Limits Now Available

Thu, 3 Feb 2011 09:30:06 -0500

Certain contribution limits are indexed for inflation each election cycle. The adjusted limits for the 2011-2012 cycle are now available here.

Switching Filing Frequency?

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 10:48:16 -0500

Party committees that do not conduct reportable federal election activity and all PACs have the option to choose to file reports on a "monthly" or "quarterly" filing schedule. Some committees prefer to file reports on a monthly basis during a federal election year, and on a less-frequent basis during a nonfederal election year (such as 2011). Unauthorized committees are permitted to switch filing frequencies one time per year. To switch your committee's filing frequency in 2011, attach a letter (paper filers only) or a Form 99 to your year-end report (due today) indicating that you will now be filing reports on the other schedule. If you are switching from monthly to quarterly, be aware that quarterly filers actually file only twice in non-election years (a mid-year report due July 31, 2011 and a year-end report due January 31, 2012).

Year-End Reporting Reminder for all Committees

Mon, 24 Jan 2011 12:23:05 -0500

Year-End reports covering activity through December 31 are due Monday, January 31. Staff in the Reports Analysis Division and Electronic Filing Office will be available until 8:00 pm EST on January 31 to answer questions regarding the content and filing of reports. To reach RAD, call 1-800-424-9530 (press 5) or 202-694-1130. For help with technical issues relating to electronic filing, dial the same toll-free number and press 4. The E-Filing Office can also be reached locally at 202-694-1307.

Register Now for FEC Party Seminar

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 08:45:38 -0500

Registration is now open for the FEC's seminar on federal campaign finance law for political party committees, to be held on March 2 in Washington DC at the FEC's headquarters. For information and registration materials, click here.

Adjusted Limits for 2011-12 Coming Soon

Mon, 10 Jan 2011 12:40:36 -0500

As you may know, some of the limits on contributions to federal candidates and committees are adjusted each election cycle to account for changes in the consumer price index (CPI). The FEC publishes the adjusted limits immediately after it receives the CPI figures from the Department of Labor -- typically in February of odd-numbered years. In the meantime, the Commission encourages donors not to exceed the limits for the previous election cycle. We'll publish a special Tip for Treasurers to announce the new limits, so you'll be among the first to know.

2011 Reporting Dates Are Now Available.

Mon, 3 Jan 2011 09:40:07 -0500

The Commission has posted on its web site the2011 reporting schedules for candidates, parties and PACs. Grab your new calendar and make a note of the due dates!

Time to Take Stock and Prepare for 2011

Mon, 20 Dec 2010 09:41:41 -0500

Happy holidays! As you prepare for the new year, it's a good time to review your FECMail subscriptions to ensure that you're getting the latest information as soon as it's posted. There will be no tip for treasurers next week, but the regular weekly tip will return in January, along with updated reporting schedules, announcements of outreach opportunities and postings of other important information for committee treasurers.

Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 09:51:55 -0500

Save the Date!

Tue, 7 Dec 2010 10:18:24 -0500

Filling up your calendar for 2011? Be sure to note the dates of FEC training workshops. Registration has already begun for the FEC's January 12 Year-End reporting and e-filing roundtables for PACs, House/Senate campaigns and political party committees. In the spring, the Commission will host a series of one-day seminars for PACs, campaigns and party committees at its headquarters in Washington, DC. Later in the year, we'll offer a pair of two-day regional conferences. Check out the current list of 2011 workshops and be sure to sign up for our conference e-mail list to be notified when registration opens for these workshops and when additional sessions are scheduled.

FEC Offices Open Extended Hours for December 2 Reports

Tue, 30 Nov 2010 13:22:30 -0500

FEC Offices Open Extended Hours for December 2 Reports. The FEC's Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be open until 8:00 p.m. (EST) on Thursday, December 2, to help committees complete and file their post-general election reports. RAD analysts will be available to answer committees' questions on reporting specific transactions, and E-Filing staff will be on hand to address any technical issues filers may encounter. To reach these offices, call 1-800/424-9530 and press 4 for the E-Filing Office or press 5 for RAD. Locally, call RAD at (202) 694-1130 and the E-Filing Office at (202) 694-1307.

FEC Post-General Report Due December 2.

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 08:34:08 -0500

Reminder: The Post-General Report is due for PACs, party committees and all general election candidates on Thursday, December 2. This report covers the time period from the date where your last report left off through November 22. All PACs and party committees registered with the FEC are reminded that they must file this report on time, regardless of activity. House and Senate campaigns are reminded that they must file this report using the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page. [Form/Instructions].

Reporting Transition Costs.

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 10:19:39 -0500

Campaigns of retiring officeholders should review new Advisory Opinion 2010-26, in which the Commission ruled that a retiring Congressman may use campaign funds to pay temporary storage costs associated with the move back to his home because those costs are an ordinary and necessary expense incurred in connection with his duties as a holder of Federal office and not an illegal "personal use" of campaign funds. The costs are reportable as "other disbursements" on Line 21 of FEC Form 3, with the specific payee(s) and purpose noted. Likewise, in Advisory Opinion 1980-138, the Commission concluded that a Senator-elect could use campaign funds to pay the expense of moving himself and his family to Washington, D.C. for similar reasons, and with the costs similarly reported.

I Demand a Recount!

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 10:22:06 -0500

In Advisory Opinions 2009-04 and 2006-24, the Commission concluded that funds raised by party committees and federal candidates/officeholders for recount expenses are subject to the limits, prohibitions and reporting requirements of the federal campaign finance law, but are not contributions or expenditures and are not subject to the biennial limit. Committees must disclose funds received for a recount as "Other Receipts" and funds spent as "Other Disbursements." Click on the links to see sample itemization for campaigns and for party committees. More recently, the Commission has addressed the use of funds raised for recount purposes in Advisory Opinion 2010-14 (permitting the use of such funds before an election for certain recount-related purposes) and Advisory Opinion 2010-18 (permitting the redesignation of excess recount funds to a state party committee's federal account).

New Election Cycle Begins

Mon, 8 Nov 2010 08:50:07 -0500

November 3, 2010, marked the beginning of a new election cycle for 2012 House campaigns and 2016 Senate campaigns. For reporting purposes, campaigns aggregate receipts and disbursements on an election cycle basis. As a result, all 2010 campaigns must separate--both in their internal records and on their FEC reports--activity that occurred on or after November 3 from activity that occurred prior to that date, regardless of which election it relates to. The campaigns will disclose their separate election-cycle receipts and disbursements on the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page (Instructions) required with the Post-General election report due December 2 (or for campaigns that were not in the general election, with the Year-End report due January 31). To help you prepare these reports, consider attending our "Winding Down the Campaign" roundtable workshop on November 17 (click here for more information).

Handy Election Day Links.

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 13:05:46 -0500

Tuesday, November 2, is Election Day! The Commission frequently receives questions and e-mails about election-related topics that are not related to campaign finance law, such as: Where do I vote? How late are the polls open? How do I report voter fraud and intimidation? To help direct voters and other interested parties to the resources that can best help them with these questions, the FEC's Information Division has developed and posted a handy page of non-FEC-related questions it normally receives on Election Day and the federal and state agencies who can answer those questions. Visit the Election Day Links page.

Last-Minute Filing Frenzy

Mon, 25 Oct 2010 08:31:01 -0500

Many filers may be required to submit additional notices this week to disclose last-minute activity. Campaign committees must disclose within 48 hours any contribution of $1,000 or more received between October 14-October 31. (File FEC Form 6 or our on-line webform.) Individuals and other entities making electioneering communications that aggregate $10,000 or more must also file 24-Hour notices to disclose the funds they raised and spent. (File FEC Form 9 or our on-line webforms.) PACs, party committees, individuals and others making independent expenditures that aggregate $1,000 or more and are made after 10/13 but more than 24 hours before Election Day must file 24-Hour Notices to disclose the expenditures. PACs and party committees report such expenditures using Schedule E [PDF] [Online Webform]. Other filers must use FEC Form 5 [PDF] [Online Webform].

Do I Have to File a Pre-General Report?

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 11:22:16 -0500

If you are a monthly filing committee, or an authorized committee of a candidate in the 2010 general election, the answer is automatically YES. If you are a quarterly filing PAC or party committee, you must file a pre-general report only if your committee made contributions or expenditures in connection with the general election during the time period October 1-October 13, 2010. The report is due Thursday, October 21.

FEC Offices Open Extended Hours for October 15 Reports

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 08:17:38 -0500

The FECÃÂÃÂ¢ÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂs Reports Analysis Division (RAD) and Electronic Filing Office will be open until 8:00 p.m. (EDT) on Friday, October 15, to help committees complete and file their quarterly reports. RAD analysts will be available to answer committeesÃÂÃÂ¢ÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂ questions on reporting specific transactions, and E-Filing staff will be on hand to address any technical issues filers may encounter. To reach these offices, call 1-800/424-9530 and press 4 for the E-Filing Office or press 5 for RAD. Locally, call RAD at (202) 694-1130 and the E-Filing Office at (202) 694-1307.

FEC Reports Due October 15 and 20

Mon, 4 Oct 2010 08:59:31 -0500

Reminder: Quarterly reports are due Friday, October 15, and Monthly reports are due Wednesday, October 20. If you need last-minute help with your FEC report, here are some resources: Every political committee registered with the FEC has a Campaign Finance Analyst who reviews its reports to ensure that they are accurate and complete. That Analyst is also available to answer your reporting questions. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Communications Specialists are also available to assist filers with reporting questions. (Note: Tricky issues are best referred to your Analyst, since he/she will be reviewing your report.) To reach these FEC staff members, call toll-free 1-800/424-9530 (press 5 to reach your Analyst or 6 to speak to a Specialist). Reporting help is also available on-line and in our Campaign Guides. For electronic filing assistance, contact the tech support number for your software vendor. FECFile users may call 1-800/424-9530 (extension 1307) for technical assistance.

New video added to FECTube

Mon, 27 Sep 2010 10:10:49 -0500

This week the Information Division added a new presentation to the Commission's E-Learning page regarding redesignations and reattributions of contributions. The presentation gives an overview of procedures for redesignating or reattributing the excessive portion of contributions received. It is also posted on FECTube, the FEC's video channel on You Tube.

New Rules on FEA and Coordinated Communications Published

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 08:54:43 -0500

The Commission recently published two Federal Register notices containing final rules on coordinated communications and federal election activity. These final rules were promulgated in response to the decision of the Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit in Shays III. Both sets of final rules go into effect on December 1, 2010.

September Filing Reminder

Mon, 13 Sep 2010 08:42:46 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Monday, September 20, covering the month of August.

Electioneering Communications Filing Period has Begun

Tue, 7 Sep 2010 11:15:43 -0500

The electioneering communications period for the general election began on September 3 and runs through November 2. Any person who makes electioneering communications that aggregate more than $10,000 during this time period must file disclosure statements with the Commission within 24 hours of the date the electioneering communication is publicly distributed. For more information, click here.

FEC Adopts Final Rules on Coordinated Communications and Federal Election Activity

Mon, 30 Aug 2010 09:13:47 -0500

At its open meeting of August 26, the Commission approved final rules on coordinated communications and federal election activity in response to the Shays III litigation. More information is available here.

Contribution Limits in Special and Regular General Elections.

Mon, 23 Aug 2010 08:51:59 -0500

In several cases this year, a special general election to fill a vacancy will be held on the same date as the regular general election to fill the office for the next term. In these circumstances, candidates have separate contribution limits for each election in which they participate. Therefore, an individual may contribute up to $2,400 for each election to candidates running in both a special and regular general election. Note, however, that campaigns must keep separate records for each of the elections, and must be sure to identify which election limit a contribution applies to when disclosing it on FEC reports. See 11 CFR 100.2, AO 1986-31 and the Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates.

August Filing Reminder

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 11:27:50 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Friday, August 20, covering the month of July.

Back to School with the FEC.

Mon, 9 Aug 2010 09:35:36 -0500

Registration has begun for several roundtable workshops being held this fall. Subjects covered include pre-election communications, FEC reporting and electronic filing. For more information, visit our Educational Outreach page.

One-Stop Shopping for Recent Legal Developments

Tue, 3 Aug 2010 12:13:59 -0500

The Commission has launched a new web page designed to provide comprehensive coverage of the latest legal developments on key campaign finance issues. Currently, the page includes information regarding the recent Citizens United, SpeechNow and EMILY's List court decisions and the FEC's response to them, as well as other pending or recently completed matters involving the Commission. Links to legal documents are supplemented by RECORD newsletter summaries, E-Learning presentations and other relevant materials.

FEC Approves AOs on Independent Expenditure-Only Political Committees.

Fri, 23 Jul 2010 13:24:18 -0500

The Commission has issued two advisory opinions (AOs 2010-9 and 2010-11) concerning the effect of recent court decisions on groups engaged solely in making independent expenditures. The opinions include the text of a letter that independent expenditure-only committees may use to identify themselves as such, pending forthcoming Commission rulemakings. A new registrant or other paper filer may send this letter with its Statement of Organization (Form 1). Existing committees that file electronically may amend their Statement of Organization by submitting the text of the letter using Form 99.

FEC Approves New Audit Procedures

Mon, 19 Jul 2010 09:25:10 -0500

On July 1, the Commission approved a Directive on Processing Audit Reports, a Directive on Legal Guidance to the Office of Compliance, and a Policy Statement Establishing a Pilot Program for Requesting Consideration of Legal Questions by the Commission. The three documents are intended to enhance the efficiency and transparency of the Commission's reports analysis and audit functions.

July Filing Reminder

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 09:53:17 -0500

Quarterly filers have a report due on Thursday, July 15 and monthly filers have a report due on Tuesday, July 20. Active in a primary election? See the Compliance Map and click on your state (or the state in which your quarterly filing PAC or party committee is making contributions or expenditures) for specific filing information pertinent to that primary.

New SEC Rules May Affect Your Committee

Wed, 7 Jul 2010 10:41:21 -0500

As a courtesy to the regulated community, the FEC notes that the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) recently approved a rule concerning the ability of certain investment advisers to make or solicit political contributions. Please note that the FEC has no jurisdiction over SEC rules and may not comment upon them. Questions on this new rule should be addressed to the SEC by calling 888/SEC-6585.

Georgia Special Election May Affect July Quarterly Filing

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 11:26:40 -0500

A special general run-off election was held in Georgia's 9th district on June 8. Candidates in this election, and quarterly filers who made previously undisclosed contributions or expenditures in connection with this election, must file a Post-Runoff report on Thursday, July 8, covering activity through June 28. For these committees only, the July Quarterly report normally due on July 15 is waived, and the October Quarterly report will cover June 29 through September 30. For more information see the linked notices: [Prior Notice] [Federal Register]

June Reporting Reminder

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 10:10:19 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Sunday June 20, covering the month of May 2010. Please note that even though the FEC is not open on the 20th, the due date will not be extended, so plan accordingly to timely file your report. Congressional committees that participated in the following special general elections, as well as quarterly filing PACs or party committees that have made previously undisclosed contributions or expenditures in connection with these special general elections, must file special post-election reports in the next few days. Click the notices linked below for more details:
PA/12 must file a post-general report on Thursday, June 17 [Prior Notice] [Federal Register]
HI/01 must file a post-general report on Monday, June 21 [Prior Notice] [Federal Register]

Sign Up Now for Summer Reporting Roundtable Workshops

Mon, 7 Jun 2010 08:35:47 -0500

The Commission will offer workshops on FEC reporting and using FECFile software at its headquarters in Washington, DC, on Wednesday, June 30. Separate workshops will be offered for PACs and party committees and for candidate committees. Openings are still available in all sessions; pre-payment of $25 per workshop required. For more information, or to sign up, go to http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#roundtables.

Registering Your Principal Campaign Committee and Other Authorized Committees

Tue, 1 Jun 2010 09:06:31 -0500

A candidate for office must have one Principal Campaign Committee, and may have additional authorized committees. When filling out your committee's Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1) - be sure that your main committee for the campaign is indicated as the principal campaign committee by checking Box 5A. Any other committees authorized by your candidate (for example, a campaign committee still in existence from a previous election or a joint fundraising committee for a joint fundraiser in which your campaign is participating) should be indicated as such by checking Box 5B on your Statement of Organization.

Have you explored the FEC's Disclosure Data Catalog?

Mon, 24 May 2010 12:26:14 -0500

The FEC is migrating the data from its FTP server to a new location on the FEC web site. In this new Disclosure Data Catalog, you'll be able to download data for each category listed in either CSV or XML formats. Each category also has a metadata page that describes the information included and the structure of the file itself. You can also subscribe to RSS feeds for many of the files so you're notified whenever new data is available or a change is made. For example, under the category "Administrative Fines," you'll find a list of completed cases where committees were penalized for failing to file required disclosure reports in a timely manner, as well as sortable CSV and XML data files regarding those cases allowing the user to sort the data by such fields as date, fine or committee name.

May Reporting Reminder

Mon, 17 May 2010 08:54:27 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded that they have areport due Thursday, May 20, covering the month of April. Quarterly filers do not have a report due that day. However, unlike monthly filers, if quarterly filers make a contribution or expenditure in connection with a special election or a primary election, they may have to file additional pre- or post-election reports. Thus, quarterly filers should refer to the FEC's compliance map as they make contributions/expenditures, to determine if an additional report is required.

Trade Association or Membership Organization?

Tue, 11 May 2010 08:09:46 -0500

Sometimes membership organizations are not sure whether the more specific rules for trade associations apply to them. While all trade associations are membership organizations under FEC rules, not all membership organizations are trade associations. For example, labor organizations and chambers of commerce fit into the broader definition of membership organization, but do not fit into the definition of a trade association. An organization is a trade association under FEC regulations if its membership is engaged in a similar or related line of commerce or business (i.e., all the members of the organization are in the same industry) and if the organization promotes and tries to improve the business conditions of its membership. To learn more about the rules that apply to trade associations, membership organizations and labor organizations, register now for the FEC's June 8-9 conference in Washington DC for these organizations!

EMILYs List v. FEC Update

Mon, 26 Apr 2010 08:37:43 -0500

On March 11, 2010, the Federal Election Commission adopted Final Rules to comply with the recent court order in EMILYs List v. Federal Election Commission, 581 F.3d 1 (DC Cir. 2009) to vacate certain Commission regulations. The vacated regulations, 11 CFR 100.57, 106.6(c), and 106.6(f), concern funds received in response to solicitations and the allocation of expenses by separate segregated funds (SSFs) and nonconnected committees. The Commission also announced plans to undertake a new rulemaking to consider additional conforming changes consistent with the court decision. Pending the completion of the second EMILYs List rulemaking, the Commission is issuing the following interim guidance to the public and committees affected by the EMILYs List decision, which is in addition to the Commission's January 12, 2010 statement on the decision:

Although they are not required to do so, affected SSFs and nonconnected committees may continue, if they desire, to use Federal funds, or to allocate between Federal and Non-Federal funds, to pay for their administrative expenses, costs of generic voter drives, and public communications that refer to a political party and to report these activities consistent with the vacated regulations pending the Commission's second EMILYs List rulemaking.

SSFs and nonconnected committees with specific questions about their reporting requirements are encouraged to call the Commission's Reports Analysis Division at 1-800-424-9530 (at the prompt, press 5).

Register Now for the Last FEC Conferences of the Year

Mon, 19 Apr 2010 08:45:22 -0500

Time is going by quickly, and there are only two FEC conferences left this year: May 3-4 for Campaigns and Party Committees and June 8-9 for Trade/Membership/Labor Organizations and their PACs. Be sure to register soon so that you don't miss out on FEC training opportunities!

April Reporting Reminder

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 08:50:07 -0500

Quarterly filers are reminded that they have a report due Thursday, April 15, covering from the closing date of their last reports filed through March 31. (Special note: If you filed semi-annually in 2009, you are considered a quarterly filer in 2010.) Also, monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Tuesday, April 20, covering the month of March.

New Draft Policy on Volunteer Materials Available for Your Comment.

Mon, 5 Apr 2010 09:43:37 -0500

The Federal Election Commission seeks public comment on alternative drafts of a Volunteer Materials Exemption Policy. Commenters are encouraged to review the drafts and submit comments to VMEpolicy@fec.gov. Comments on the drafts are due by 5:00 pm on April 13, 2010.

Have You Tried the New Compliance Map?

Mon, 29 Mar 2010 08:57:24 -0500

The Commission has introduced a new Compliance Map on its website, which sets out key dates and timeframes for disclosure of campaign finances in each state. The map provides schedules for pre- and post-election reporting, independent expenditures, coordination, federal election activity (FEA) and electioneering communications. It also provides election dates, as well as contact information for key state offices, including those offering information on ballot access and state campaign finance questions.

FEC Training Programs in March and April

Mon, 8 Mar 2010 09:16:09 -0500

The Commission will offer several conferences and workshops this Spring to assist committees in understanding federal campaign finance law, including a seminar for nonconnected PACs on April 7 and our rescheduled regional conference in New Orleans, March 23-24. For a complete overview of our educational outreach programs, visit our educational outreach page. Also, to ensure you don't miss out on any opportunity, sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for any FEC educational program.

FEC Publishes Adjusted Limits and Thresholds

Mon, 1 Mar 2010 09:42:47 -0500

On February 24, the Commission published its Price Index Adjustments for Expenditure Limitations and Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure Threshold in the Federal Register. This annual notice informs the public of any adjustments in expenditure limitations as well as the lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold. For 2010, the lobbyist bundling disclosure threshold has not increased and will remain at $16,000 for 2010. The coordinated party expenditure limit for the general election for House races will be $43,500 ($87,000 in those states with only one Congressional district). The coordinated party limits for the general election for Senate races vary by State; see the link above for a table of those limits.

Upcoming Rulemaking Hearings at the FEC

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 09:18:30 -0500

The FEC will be holding several public hearings early next month as it continues to consider new regulations to implement several recent court decisions. On March 2-3, the Commission will hold a hearing on its proposed rules concerning coordinated communications, and on March 16 (rescheduled from March 10), the Commission will hold a hearing on proposed regulations relating to participation by federal officeholders and candidates in nonfederal fundraising.

February Filing Reminder

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 11:35:59 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Saturday, February 20, covering the month of January. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines even if they occur on a weekend, so plan accordingly. Also, candidates participating in the Massachusetts Senate Special General Election (and quarterly-filing PACs and party committees making contributions or expenditures in connection with this election) must file a post-general report on Thursday, February 18, covering activity from January 1 through February 8.

FEC Training in February and March

Mon, 1 Feb 2010 08:52:01 -0500

The Commission will offer several conferences and workshops this month and next to assist committees in understanding federal campaign finance law, including conferences in Washington, DC, for corporations and in New Orleans for candidates, party committees and corporate/labor/trade PACs. A roundtable workshop will be held later this month in Washington, DC, on the new travel rules. For a complete overview of our educational outreach programs, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml. Also, to ensure you don't miss out on any opportunity, sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for any FEC educational program.

Year-End Reporting Reminder for all Committees

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 09:57:46 -0500

Year-End reports covering activity through December 31 are due Sunday, January 31. The Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they occur on weekends, so paper filers should plan to mail their reports early. Electronic filers have until midnight (EST) Sunday to submit their reports.

Pre-Election Reports Due on 1/21.

Tue, 19 Jan 2010 16:38:36 -0500

Committees involved in the primary elections in lIllinois and the special election in Florida's 19th district will file pre-election reports on Thursday, January 21.

FEC Guide to Enforcement Procedures Available

Mon, 11 Jan 2010 12:44:07 -0500

A new compliance manual that summarizes the Commission's general enforcement procedures and policies is now available. The Guidebook for Complainants and Respondents on the FEC Enforcement Process provides a step-by-step guide and is an invaluable resource for any committee going through the Commission's enforcement process.

Final Rules on Campaign Travel Effective This Week

Mon, 4 Jan 2010 08:32:59 -0500

On January 6, final rules on campaign travel by aircraft recently published in the Federal Register will become effective. Learn more about these new rules by attending the Commission's February 24th roundtable workshop or one of our upcoming conferences.

All Closed FEC Enforcement Cases Now Online

Mon, 28 Dec 2009 10:44:04 -0500

As of December 23, the Commission has now placed all publicly released enforcement documents, dating back to the agency's creation, on its website. Closed enforcement matters from 1975 through 1998 are available at this link. Closed MURs dating from 1999 to the present can be found in the Enforcement Query Section of the FEC website by clicking here.

FEC Clarifies Enforcement Policies

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 08:55:09 -0500

On December 17, the Commission approved two items to better explain enforcement procedures to the regulated community: 1) a Guidebook for Complainants and Respondents on the FEC Enforcement Process, that summarizes the Commission's general enforcement policies and procedures and provides a step-by-step guide through the Commission's enforcement process and 2) a Directive on Enforcement Procedures to provide status reports to respondents and the Commission in enforcement matters.

Give the Gift of Campaign Finance Law Knowledge

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 10:14:29 -0500

The FEC periodically offers training conferences and workshops to help committees learn about the campaign finance law. Dates for scheduled 2010 conferences and workshops have been posted. Registration has begun for a reporting roundtable on January 20 in Washington, DC, and a regional conference in New Orleans, February 9-10. Over the years, FEC conferences and workshops have often sold out. So don't get left out in the cold in this winter; sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for our spring conferences. You'll be among the first to know when a training opportunity becomes available.

New Rules May Affect Your Campaign

Tue, 8 Dec 2009 10:38:06 -0500

The Commission has published new regulations governing campaign travel and proposed changes to its rules limiting candidate/officeholder participation in nonfederal fundraisers. The rules on campaign travel, most of which take effect January 6, 2010, restrict -- and in some cases prohibit -- candidates from spending campaign funds to travel aboard noncommercial aircraft. The proposed rules regarding federal candidate/officeholder participation in nonfederal fundraising events respond to the recent court decision in Shays v. FEC. Comments on the proposed changes are due February 8, 2010.

Early December Special Election Reports Due

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 09:19:31 -0500

There are two special elections with reports due this Thursday, December 3, covering activity from October 15 through November 23. In New York's 23rd District, the post-general report is due, and in California's 10th District, the post-runoff report is due. (PACs/party committees supporting or opposing candidates in these elections should review these Federal Register notices [NY23] /[CA10] to determine their filing requirements.)

Massachusetts Senate Special Election Reports Due This Week.

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 09:05:02 -0500

Pre-primary reports are due Thursday (Thanksgiving), November 26, for authorized committees participating in the Massachusetts Senate special primary election. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines even if they occur on a federal holiday, so plan accordingly. PACs/party committees supporting or opposing candidates in this election should review this Federal Register notice to determine their filing requirements.

November Reporting Reminder

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 17:52:56 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a regular report due Friday, November 20, covering the month of October.

Party Guide (2009 Edition) Now Available in Hard Copy

Mon, 9 Nov 2009 09:24:32 -0500

Printed versions of the July 2009 updated version of the FEC's Campaign Guide for Political Party Committees are now available free of charge from the FEC's Information Division. To order, call 1-800/424-9530 (press 6), or send an e-mail to info@fec.gov.

FEC Introduces New Disclosure Tools

Mon, 2 Nov 2009 10:13:13 -0500

The Commission has just introduced a new disclosure data catalog for downloading data files from its website. The data catalog offers users increased flexibility and choice to customize their searches. The Commission has also launched a new disclosure data blog to increase the exchange of information between the website's managers and users. On the blog, the Commission will post information about disclosure files and its future plans, and solicit questions, ideas and suggestions from users.

EMILY's List v. FEC Update

Tue, 27 Oct 2009 13:19:47 -0500

On October 22, the Commission announced it would not seek rehearing en banc in EMILY's List v. FEC. On September 24, the United States Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit ordered that the district court vacate the challenged regulations, saying they "exceed the FEC's statutory authority." Two of the three judges also concluded that these regulations "violate the First Amendment."The regulations at issue concern funds received in response to solicitations (11 C.F.R. 100.57), the method for allocating administrative expenses, costs of generic voter drives, and certain public communications (11 C.F.R. 106.6(c)), and payments for public communications and voter drives that refer to one or more clearly identified federal or non-federal candidates (11 C.F.R. 106.6(f)). Commissioners' statements on the rehearing issue are here.

Notices of Proposed Rulemaking Implementing the Recent Shays Decision are now Available for Comment

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 10:58:31 -0500

On October 8, the Commission approved two Notices of Proposed Rulemaking (NPRMs) implementing the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals Opinion in Shays v. FEC (Shays III) that found invalid aspects of some of the rules the Commission promulgated to implement the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act of 2002 (BCRA). The NPRM on Federal Election Activity addresses definitions of get-out-the-vote and voter registration activity. The Commission will hold a hearing on this NPRM on December 16, 2009. Comments from the public are due by November 20. The NPRM on Coordinated Communications proposes possible alternatives to the regulations that govern communications made in coordination with federal candidates, their authorized committees or political parties but paid for by other persons. The NPRM also proposes to define "promote, attack, support, or oppose." Comments on this NPRM are due on or before January 19, 2010, and the Commission will hold a hearing at a later date.

October Reporting Reminder

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 08:54:07 -0500

Authorized committees are reminded that their October Quarterly reports are due this Thursday, October 15. This report covers the period of July 1 through September 30. Also, monthly filers are reminded that reports covering the month of September are due Tuesday, October 20.

New FECTube Videos Available

Tue, 6 Oct 2009 09:35:36 -0500

A new three-part video series on best practices in internal controls and recordkeeping has recently been posted on FECTube, the FEC's YouTube channel. In these videos, FEC Audit Division Director Joe Stoltz discusses recommended internal controls and recordkeeping procedures for political committees. You can find the new videos at http://www.youtube.com/user/FECTube.

Are you Getting your Weekly Digest?

Mon, 28 Sep 2009 10:59:55 -0500

The FEC Press Office now publishes a weekly digest of Commission events and news every Friday afternoon. You can find the Press Office digest online or sign up to subscribe to receive it via e-mail by visiting http://www.fec.gov/press/FEC_Digest.shtml.

Emily's List v. Federal Election Commission

Mon, 21 Sep 2009 16:36:05 -0500

On September 18, the U.S. Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit reversed the decision of the district court in Emily's List v. Federal Election Commission and ordered that the district court vacate the challenged regulations. The regulations at issue concern funds received in response to solicitations (11 C.F.R. 100.57), the method for allocating administrative expenses, costs of generic voter drives, and certain public communications (11 C.F.R. 106.6(c)), and payments for public communications and voter drives that refer to one or more clearly identified federal or non-federal candidates (11 C.F.R. 106.6(f)). At this time, the FEC is reviewing the court's opinion; please watch this space and the Record newsletter for future developments.

September Reporting Reminder

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 08:53:58 -0500

Monthly filers are reminded that they have a report due Sunday, September 20, covering the month of August. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines even if they occur on a weekend, so plan accordingly.

The Cost of Filing Late Just Went Up

Tue, 8 Sep 2009 10:37:33 -0500

The Commission published final rules in July that increased certain civil penalties for inflation, including fines under the Administrative Fines Program for late- or non-filed reports. For more information on the new rules and to see the newly adjusted fine schedules, visit the Commission's Administrative Fine Program web page. Ultimately, the best thing you can do: File your reports on time!

Back to School with the FEC

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 09:08:44 -0500

The school year is beginning, and it's a good time to update your knowledge of FEC rules and practices to prepare for the 2010 elections. The FEC will conduct two conferences this fall: September 15-16, in Chicago and October 28-29 in San Francisco. These conferences, intended for House and Senate campaigns, corporate/labor/trade PACs, and state and local political party committees, offer workshops on fundraising, reporting and communications. All workshops focus on best practices and ways to avoid compliance problems. Registration is now open for both conferences at the above links.

Looking for the Record?

Tue, 25 Aug 2009 09:11:21 -0500

As of the July 2009 issue, the FEC is distributing the Record electronically. It is made available each on month on the FEC web site at http://www.fec.gov/pages/record.shtml and the FEC will notify all registered committees and FECMail subscribers via e-mail each time a new issue is posted. If you don't currently receive e-mail notification, simply visit the Record home page and click on the link "Sign-up to receive an email notification when a new issue of the Record is posted." Upon request, the Commission will print and mail copies to individuals who do not have computer access.

August Reporting Reminders

Mon, 17 Aug 2009 11:38:27 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a regular report due Thursday, August 20, covering the month of July. Some committees may also have to file lobbyist bundling reports on FEC Form 3L on that day as well. See the Commission's Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure page for more information.

Reporting for California Special Elections

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 09:00:05 -0500

There are two special House elections in California with reports due in August. In California's 32nd District, a post-runoff report is due August 13 (covering activity from July 1 through August 3). In California's 10th District, a pre-general report is due August 20 (covering activity from July 1 through August 12). (PACs/party committees supporting or opposing candidates in these elections should review these Federal Register notices [10th District] /[32nd District] to determine their filing requirements.)

FEC Launches E-Learning and YouTube

Mon, 3 Aug 2009 09:36:38 -0500

The Commission has added an E-Learning section to its Educational Outreach web page and has also launched its own YouTube channel: http://www.youtube.com/FECTube. The E-Learning page offers interactive presentations that allow users to test their knowledge of the information presented and video workshops. The workshops are actually hosted on YouTube and include presentations about the Commission and the law it administers, as well as highlights from our April workshop on lobbyist bundling. Additional content and other improvements will appear in the weeks and months ahead.

Sign up now for FEC Training Opportunities this August and September

Mon, 27 Jul 2009 08:59:18 -0500

It's a good time to update your knowledge of campaign finance law to prepare for the 2010 elections. Sign up now to attend a free workshop for your committee offered as part of the FEC's state outreach program, August 5-6, in Kansas City, MO. If you are looking for more comprehensive training and networking opportunities, registration is open for the FEC's regional conference for campaigns, corporate/labor/trade association PACs and party committees, to be held September 15-16 in Chicago. Committees are encouraged to register now for the conference, before the price rises on August 14.

July Reporting Reminders

Mon, 20 Jul 2009 09:36:02 -0500

Monthly filers have a report due today, July 20. Semi-annual filers (e.g., those PACs and party committees that filed quarterly in 2008) have a report due on Friday, July 31. (Most authorized committees of candidates filed their quarterly reports last week, on July 15.) Electronic filers are reminded to use the new electronic filing format (see last week's tip for details). Additionally, authorized committees, leadership PACs and party committees that received bundled contributions from lobbyists, lobbyist registrants or lobbyist/registrant PACs may need to file FEC Form 3L with their July report. For additional information, visit our lobbyist bundling disclosure page.

Update Your Software Now to Prepare for This Month's Reporting

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:30:01 -0500

The latest version of FECFile (Build 6.4.1.2) was released on July 8, 2009 and can be downloaded at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/updatelist.html. Any report filed after that date (including those due this month) must be filed using the new version. If you use commercial software, contact your vendor to ensure they are using the latest electronic filing format.

Your Feedback Needed Regarding the FEC Website and Communications

Tue, 7 Jul 2009 12:16:28 -0500

The Commission seeks your comments by July 21, 2009, regarding possible improvements to its website and Internet communications. The agency will hold a public hearing on the subject July 29-30. Visit http://www.fec.gov/pages/hearings/internethearing.shtml for a copy of the hearing announcement and request for comments, and other relevant information.

Forwarding and Depositing Contributions - Deadlines for Treasurers

Mon, 29 Jun 2009 08:06:38 -0500

Did you know that treasurers have to pay attention to two different deadlines when a committee receives a contribution? First, when any person receives a contribution of any amount for a campaign (or a contribution in excess of $50 for a PAC or party committee), that person has 10 days to forward the contribution to the treasurer. (The deadline for forwarding contributions of $50 or less to a PAC or party committee is 30 days). See 11 CFR 102.8. Second, the treasurer must deposit the contribution within 10 days after he or she receives it from the person who initially collected it. 11 CFR 103.3(a). By the way, the date of receipt for reporting purposes is the date that person initially received the contribution (so the date and other records must be forwarded along with the contribution). For more information, see the chapters on fundraising and recordkeeping in your Campaign Guide and the regulations linked above.

Summer Deadlines and Vacations

Mon, 22 Jun 2009 08:40:00 -0500

It's Summer, so staff may be out of the office on vacation. In addition, the Commission will be closed Friday, July 3. Be sure to plan for these days off yet keep up with upcoming reporting deadlines and FEC software updates. FECFile version 6.4.1.0. was released May 14, 2009; any report filed after that date must use the new software format. Moreover, campaign committees and quarterly filing PACs and party committees active in the CA/32 special runoff election are reminded that the pre-Runoff report is due July 2. (Click here for more information).

June Reporting Reminder

Mon, 15 Jun 2009 08:34:06 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Saturday, June 20, covering the month of May 2009. Please note that even though the FEC is not open on the 20th, the due date will not be extended, so plan accordingly to timely file your report.

Summer Learning Opportunity at the FEC

Mon, 8 Jun 2009 11:58:30 -0500

The FEC is holding concurrent roundtable workshops on reporting and e-filing using FECFile on July 8. The roundtables are for PACs, party committees, campaign committees and consultants, and cost $25 per workshop. For more information, click here or e-mail Conferences@fec.gov.

Trade Associations with Corporate Members Must Do the Two-Step

Mon, 1 Jun 2009 09:34:44 -0500

At last month's conference for trade associations, many questions were asked about the process for soliciting employees of corporate members of a trade association. It's a two-step process: First, the trade association must seek and receive formal approval (written or electronic) from the member corporation. The request must include language explaining the prior approval requirements and restrictions set forth in FEC requlations. Once the corporate member grants "prior approval," the association may solicit the member's individual executives and stockholders for PAC contributions. See 11 CFR 114.8 and Appendix C of the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations for more information about the specific requirements for prior approval requests.

Make Your Plans for Summer Outreach Now!

Wed, 27 May 2009 11:07:42 -0500

Plans are underway for the FEC to bring its state outreach program to three cities this summer: Tallahassee, FL (June 24-25), Columbus, OH (July 28-29) and Kansas City, MO (Date TBA). Specialists will conduct informal, targeted, workshops on the law and answer your questions in person. Specific schedules for each city will be available soon at http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#state. Workshops are free but pre-registration is required. For more information, e-mail Conferences@fec.gov and specify the city you are interested in attending and the type of organization you are with (i.e., campaign, party, PAC, etc.).

May Reporting Reminder

Mon, 18 May 2009 07:50:23 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a regular report due May 20, covering the month of April. Some committees may also have to file lobbyist bundling reports on FEC Form 3L on that day as well - see last week's tip for details.

Some Committees Required to File Lobbyist Bundling Reports on May 20

Mon, 11 May 2009 12:24:03 -0500

On May 20, 2009, certain monthly filing leadership PACs, Presidential campaigns and political party committees must file FEC Form 3L for the first time. Under the new lobbyist bundling disclosure rules, the above "reporting committees" must disclose information about lobbyist/registrants and lobbyist/registrant PACs that forwarded, or that the committee credited with raising, two or more bundled contributions aggregating in excess of $16,000 during the specific covered period from March 19 through April 30, 2009. See the May 2009 Record and the Commission's Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure home page for more information.

Electronic Distribution of Record Begins in July 2009

Mon, 4 May 2009 09:19:36 -0500

Starting with the July 2009 issue, the FEC will no longer print and mail copies of its monthly newsletter, the Record, and will instead distribute it electronically. The Record will continue to be made available each month on the FEC web site, and the FEC will notify all registered committees via e-mail each time a new issue is posted. Individuals and organizations who are not registered with the Commission, but who would like to continue to receive the Record, can subscribe through FECMail to receive e-mail notification when a new issue is posted to the web site. Subscribing is easy. Simply visit our web site at www.fec.gov/pages/record.shtml and click on the link "Sign-up to receive an e-mail notification when a new issue of the Record is posted." Upon request, the Commission will print and mail copies to individuals who do not have computer access.

Special Post-General Report Reminders

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 08:48:51 -0500

The Post-General report is due Thursday, April 30, for candidates in the March 31st special general election in New York's 20th Congressional district. Quarterly-filing PACs or party committees that have made contributions to any of the candidates in this special elections (or independent expenditures for or against them) may also have to file this report. Candidates filing special election post-general reports in this and other special general elections across the country are reminded that they must file the special Post-General report using the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page. [House/Senate version / Instructions].

Trade Association or Membership Organization?

Mon, 20 Apr 2009 09:02:50 -0500

Sometimes membership organizations are not sure whether the more specific rules for trade associations apply to them. While all trade associations are membership organizations under FEC rules, not all membership organizations are trade associations. For example, labor organizations and chambers of commerce fit into the broader definition of membership organization, but do not fit into the definition of a trade association. An organization is a trade association under FEC regulations if its membership is engaged in a similar or related line of commerce or business (i.e., all the members of the organization are in the same industry) and if the organization promotes and tries to improve the business conditions of its membership. To learn more about the rules that apply to trade associations, membership organizations and labor organizations, register now for the FEC's May 21-22 conference in Washington DC for these organizations!

Candidates file with FEC on Tax Day

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 10:01:06 -0500

Most federal candidates' campaign committees file quarterly reports this Wednesday, April 15. PACs and party committees file either monthly or semiannually this year, and Presidential campaigns that filed monthly in 2008 continue to do so in 2009.

New Address for Senate Filers

Tue, 7 Apr 2009 07:44:42 -0500

The mailing address for FEC reports filed by Senate campaign committees as well as political committees that support only Senate candidates has changed. Starting with the Form 3 filing due April 15, Senate campaign reports should be sent to:

Secretary of the Senate
Office of Public Records
P.O. Box 2517
Alexandria, VA 22301-0517

California 32nd District Special Election Reports Due in May

Mon, 30 Mar 2009 09:04:36 -0500

There will be a special general election in California's 34nd District on May 19, 2009, and if needed, a special runoff election in that district on July 14, 2009. The reporting schedule for special pre-general (and if needed, post-general and pre-runoff) reporting in regard to these elections is available online. Quarterly-filing PACs or party committees that make or have made contributions to any of the candidates in these special elections (or independent expenditures for or against them) may also have to file these or other additional reports; see this Federal Register notice for details.

New FEC Form 3L Now Available

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 08:41:03 -0500

FEC Form 3L, the new form to be used by campaigns, leadership PACs and party committees to disclose contributions bundled by lobbyists, registrants and lobbyist/registrant PACs, is now available. Click here to download Form 3L / Instructions [PDF].

March Reporting Notes

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 08:47:03 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Friday, March 20, covering the month of February (link to it). On March 10, FECFile Version 6.3.1.1 became available for download from the FEC Web site at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/updatelist.html. Any report filed after that date must be filed using the new software. The new format corrects some technical issues and allows for the amendments to Form 1 that are due by March 29 for lobbyist/registrant and leadership PACs.

Lobbyist Bundling Disclosure Update

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:32:57 -0500

Many PACs have contacted the FEC to find out their requirements under the new lobbyist bundling disclosure rules. As noted in a previous tip, PACs that are lobbyist/registrant PACs or leadership PACs must file an amended Form 1 by March 29, 2009. Any brand new PACs that are lobbyist/registrant PACs or leadership PACs must disclose themselves as such when filing their initial Form 1 as of March 19, 2009. FEC Form 1 has been amended to accommodate these changes in the law and the new version is now available on the FEC's web site at http://www.fec.gov/info/guidance/hlogabundling.shtml.

Clarification of 2/24/09 Tip

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 08:34:20 -0500

The March 30 deadline listed in the Commission's February 17 Federal Register Notice for lobbyist/registrant PACs to amend their FEC Form 1 (Statement of Organization) is incorrect. As noted in our tip of February 24, the actual deadline for filing the Form 1 amendments is Sunday, March 29, 2009. A corrected Federal Register notice will be published shortly; in the meantime, here is an annotated version noting the correction to be made.

Lobbyist Bundling Rules Require New Filings for Many Committees

Tue, 24 Feb 2009 07:42:01 -0500

New disclosure regulations for contributions bundled by lobbyists/registrants and lobbyist/registrant PACs take effect later this spring. Lobbyist/registrant PACs and leadership PACs will be among the first committees affected. Beginning March 19, new committees in those categories must identify themselves as such on their Statements of Organization (FEC Form 1). Existing lobbyist/registrant PACs and leadership PACs will have until March 29 to identify themselves by amending their Statements of Organization. In May, leadership PACs and party committees that file monthly will file the first lobbyist bundling disclosure reports. Authorized committees of candidates and leadership PACs and party committees that file quarterly (semiannually in the nonelection year) will file their first reports in July. The Commission plans to release its revised FEC Form 1 in early March and the new FEC Form 3L in time for the May filings. For additional information, visit our lobbyist bundling rulemaking page.

Monthly Reporting Notes

Tue, 17 Feb 2009 11:39:10 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Friday, February 20, covering the month of January. A special note: Recent inquiries to the Commission's 800 Line have asked if monthly filing committees have to file additional special election reports. The answer is no, as such activity is included on their regular monthly report.

Time to Make Spring Break Plans to Attend the FEC Corporate Conference!

Mon, 9 Feb 2009 08:35:08 -0500

The FEC has begun registration for its popular annual conference for corporations and their PACs, to be held April 2-3, 2009, in Washington, DC. Review the basics and update your knowledge of the laws affecting your federal corporate PAC. You'll have a chance to meet FEC Commissioners, senior staff and the person who reviews your FEC report, all the while networking and sharing ideas with other corporate PAC professionals from around the country. Space is limited so early registration is highly recommended!

Illinois 5th District Special Election Reports Due in February and March

Mon, 2 Feb 2009 09:26:01 -0500

There will be a special primary election in Illinois' 5th District on March 3, 2009, and a special general election in that district on April 7, 2009. The reporting schedule for special pre-primary, pre-general and post-general reporting in regard to these elections is available online. Quarterly-filing PACs or party committees that make or have made contributions to any of the candidates in these special elections (or independent expenditures for or against them) may also have to file these or other additional reports.

Year-End Reporting Reminder

Thu, 29 Jan 2009 08:17:55 -0500

All committees are reminded that the Year-End report is due Saturday, January 31, covering from the date your last report left off through December 31. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they occur on weekends. Authorized committees for 2008 candidates who were not in the general election will also need to remember to use the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page.

New Contribution Limits Now Available

Fri, 23 Jan 2009 09:40:28 -0500

Certain contribution limits are indexed for inflation each election cycle. The adjusted limits for the 2009-10 cycle are now available at http://www.fec.gov/info/contriblimits0910.pdf.

Resolved: Get Up to Date on FEC Rules

Wed, 21 Jan 2009 10:03:25 -0500

Looking to keep your resolution to get training on the federal campaign finance law? Make plans now to attend an FEC conference this year. Registration has begun for the FEC's annual Washington DC conference for House/Senate campaigns and political party committees, to be held March 3-4. Other conferences will be held later this Spring and Fall in Washington DC, Chicago and San Francisco for corporate, labor and trade association PACs, campaigns and party committees. Sign up for our conference e-mail list to be notified when registration opens for these.

New Limits Coming Soon

Mon, 12 Jan 2009 12:56:49 -0500

Certain contribution limits are indexed for inflation each election cycle. The Commission expects to receive by the end of January the cost of living data necessary to adjust the limits for the 2009-10 election cycle. As soon as that information becomes available, we will post the new limits on our website and will publish them in the Federal Register and in our monthly Record newsletter and other publications.

2009 Reporting Dates Are Now Available

Mon, 5 Jan 2009 09:08:08 -0500

The Commission has posted on its web site the 2009 reporting schedules for candidates, parties and PACs. Grab your new calendar and make a note of the due dates!

Give Yourself the Gift of Education

Tue, 30 Dec 2008 08:25:13 -0500

The FEC periodically offers roundtable workshops and conferences to help committees learn about the campaign finance law. The dates for the 2009 conferences have been posted at http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml#conferences. Over the years, these sessions have often sold out quickly. So don't get left out in the cold this winter, sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for a new workshop or conference. To subscribe, simply click here. You'll be among the first to know when a training opportunity becomes available.

Donations to the Inaugural Committee

Mon, 22 Dec 2008 08:25:51 -0500

The law and FEC regulations permit donations (except from foreign nationals) to the inaugural committee. The inaugural committee must file a report on FEC Form 13 [Instructions] no later than 90 days after the Inauguration. On this report, the committee discloses the full names and addresses of each person or entity that donates $200 or more in the aggregate to the committee. See 11 CFR 104.21.

Here's Your Chance to Have a Say in FEC Procedures and Policies

Mon, 15 Dec 2008 08:10:40 -0500

The Commission will hold a broad ranging public hearing on Jan. 14, 2009, to obtain public comment on how the Commission might improve transparency, fairness and efficiency in the way it processes, applies and enforces the laws over which it has jurisdiction and the regulations it has adopted. The scope of the public hearing will encompass an evaluation of the compliance and enforcement process, including audits, matters under review, reports analysis, administrative fines and alternative dispute resolution, as well as other policies, practices and procedures, such as policy statements, advisory opinions and the Commission's education and information programs. Written comments and requests to testify at the January 14, 2009, public hearing are due Friday, January 5 and may be submitted by e-mail to agencypro2008@fec.gov. Click here for more information about the hearing and for detailed instructions on how to submit written comments..

FEC Recount Procedures

Mon, 8 Dec 2008 09:00:00 -0500

In Advisory Opinion 2006-24, the Commission concluded that funds raised by party committees and federal candidates/officeholders for recount expenses are subject to the limits, prohibitions and reporting requirements of the federal campaign finance law, but are not contributions or expenditures. Committees must disclose funds received for a recount as "Other Receipts" and funds spent as "Other Disbursements." Click on the links to see sample itemization for campaigns and for party committees.

Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings

Mon, 1 Dec 2008 08:13:39 -0500

FEC Post-General Report Due December 4

Mon, 24 Nov 2008 08:01:18 -0500

Reminder: The Post-General Report is due for PACs, party committees and all general election candidates on Thursday, December 4. This report covers the time period from the date where your last report left off through November 24. All PACs and party committees registered with the FEC are reminded that they must file this report on time, regardless of activity. House, Senate and Presidential campaigns are reminded that they must file this report using the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page. [House/Senate version / Instructions] [Presidential version / Instructions]. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines.

Contributions to Retire Debts

Thu, 13 Nov 2008 11:00:02 -0500

Campaigns with net debts outstanding (i.e., more debt than cash on hand) after an election is over may accept contributions to retire the debt. Such contributions must be properly designated (e.g., 2008 general debt) and may not exceed the contributor's limit for the designated election. Click here for an example of a properly reported contribution that was designated to retire debt. Undesignated contributions received by a campaign count towards the limit for the candidate's next election (e.g., the 2010 primary). While those funds could be used to retire debt, a campaign with net debts outstanding may choose to ask the contributor to redesignate the contribution for 2008 general debt retirement, provided that redesignation does not cause the donor to exceed his/her limit for that election. Click here for an example of a properly reported redesignation of a contribution. For more information on the rules for raising money to retire debts, see Chapter 4, page 25, in your Campaign Guide.

New Election Cycle Begins

Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:16:31 -0500

November 5, 2008, marked the beginning of a new election cycle for 2010 House campaigns, 2012 Presidential campaigns and 2014 Senate campaigns. For reporting purposes, campaigns aggregate receipts and disbursements on an election cycle basis. As a result, all 2008 campaigns must separate--both in their internal records and on their FEC reports--activity that occurred on or after November 5 from activity that occurred prior to that date, regardless of which election it relates to. The campaigns will disclose their separate election-cycle receipts and disbursements on the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page (Instructions) [Presidential Campaign Version / Presidential Version Instructions] required with the Post-General election report due December 4 (or for campaigns that were not in the general election, with the Year-End report due January 31).

Handy Election Day Links

Mon, 3 Nov 2008 08:37:30 -0500

Tuesday, November 4, is Election Day! The Commission frequently receives questions and e-mails about election-related topics that are not related to campaign finance law, such as:

Where do I vote?
How late are the polls open?
How do I report voter fraud and intimidation?
How does the Electoral College work?

To help direct voters and other interested parties to the resources that can best help them with these questions, the FEC's Information Division has developed and posted a handy page of non-FEC-related questions it normally receives on Election Day and the federal and state agencies who can answer those questions. Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/election_day_links.shtml to access the Election Day Links page.

Last-Minute Get-Out-the-Vote Activity by Party Committees

Wed, 29 Oct 2008 07:52:09 -0500

Party committees conducting GOTV activity now should be aware that such activity is considered to be federal election activity (FEA) under the Act. As such, it must be paid for with federal funds or with an allocation between federal and Levin (or Levin-eligible) funds. Engaging in reportable FEA will trigger monthly filing requirements for the committee. GOTV activity conducted on behalf of the Presidential and Vice-Presidential nominees does not result in a contribution to the campaign provided that the payment is not for general public communications or political advertising and does not come from funds designated for such candidates, and that the activity is conducted by volunteers. For more information, see the Campaign Guide for Political Party Committees, pages 47 and 64, and also Chapters 8 and 14.

Last-Minute Filing Frenzy!

Mon, 20 Oct 2008 08:00:41 -0500

For some committees, this week's pre-general report will be the final FEC filing required before Election Day. Many filers, however, may be required to submit additional notices to disclose last-minute activity. Campaign committees must disclose within 48 hours any contribution of $1,000 or more received between October 16 and November 1. (File FEC Form 6 [Instructions] or our on-line webform.) Individuals, 527 organizations and other groups making electioneering communications that aggregate $10,000 or more must also file 24-Hour notices to disclose the funds they raised and spent. (File FEC Form 9 [Instructions] or our on-line webforms.) PACs, party committees and individuals/groups making independent expenditures that aggregate $1,000 or more and are made after 10/15 but more than 24 hours before Election Day must file 24-Hour Notices to disclose the expenditures. PACs and party committees report such expenditures using Schedule E [PDF] [Instructions] [Online Webform]. Unregistered individuals/groups use FEC Form 5 [PDF] [Instructions] [Online Webform.

Do I Have to File a Pre-General Report?

Tue, 14 Oct 2008 07:52:00 -0500

If you are a monthly filing committee, or an authorized committee of a candidate in the 2008 general election, the answer is automatically YES. If you are a quarterly filing PAC or party committee, you must file a pre-general report only if your committee made contributions or expenditures in connection with the general election during the time period October 1-October 15, 2008. The pre-general report is due Thursday, October 23.

FEC Reports Due October 15 and 20

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 08:38:37 -0500

Reminder: Quarterly reports are due Wednesday, October 15, and Monthly reports are due Monday, October 20. If you need last-minute help with your FEC report, here are some resources: Every political committee registered with the FEC has a Campaign Finance Analyst who reviews its reports to ensure that they are accurate and complete. That Analyst is also available to answer your reporting questions. For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Communications Specialists are also available to assist filers with reporting questions. (Note: Tricky issues are best referred to your Analyst, since he/she will be reviewing your report.) To reach these FEC staff members, call toll-free 1-800/424-9530 (press 5 to reach your Analyst or 6 to speak to a Specialist). Reporting help is also available on-line at http://www.fec.gov/info/filing.shtml and in our Campaign Guides. For electronic filing assistance, contact the tech support number for your software vendor. FECFile users may call 1-800/424-9530 (extension 1307) for technical assistance.

Ohio 11th District Special Election Reports Due

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 10:18:06 -0500

There will be a special primary in Ohio's 11th Congressional district on October 14, 2008, and a special general in that district on November 18, 2008. The reporting schedule for special pre-primary, pre-general and post-general reporting in regard to these elections is available online. Quarterly-filing PACs or party committees that make or have made contributions to any of the candidates in these special elections (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them) may also have to file these or other additional reports. See this Federal Register notice for details.

Rescheduled Louisiana Primary - Pre-Primary Reports Due Today (9/22)

Mon, 22 Sep 2008 08:57:53 -0500

Due to Hurricane Gustav, the Louisiana primary election was postponed from September 6, 2008, to October 4, 2008. Should no candidate achieve a majority vote in the October 4, 2008, Primary Election, a Primary Runoff Election will be held on November 4, 2008, with a General Election on December 6, 2008.

As a result, a pre-primary report is due today for candidates in those elections, as well as quarterly-filing PACs or party committees that made previously undisclosed contributions/expenditures in connection with those elections. In regard to contribution limits, campaign committees of candidates who were to participate in the September 6 election (including committees of unopposed candidates) may continue accepting contributions towards a contributor's primary election limit up through October 4, 2008. Only candidates participating in a primary runoff election may retain contributions for that runoff election. Thus, independent candidates may not accept contributions for that election because they do not participate in the runoff. Also, candidates who received a majority of the vote in the primary election are not eligible to receive additional contributions because there will not be a runoff election as to their seat.

September Reporting Reminder

Mon, 15 Sep 2008 09:23:13 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Saturday, September 20. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they occur on weekends. Electronic filers are reminded that they must use the new version 6.2 electronic filing format (see the June 17 tip for details.)

Nonconnected Guide (2008 Edition) Now Available in Hard Copy

Mon, 8 Sep 2008 08:55:28 -0500

No more long waits for download! Printed versions of the 2008 updated version of the FEC's Campaign Guide for Nonconnected Committees are now available free of charge from the FEC's Information Division. Nonconnected committees include PACs sponsored by partnerships or LLCs, leadership PACs, and PACs organized by unincorporated groups of individuals. To order, call 1-800/424-9530 (press 6), or send an e-mail to info@fec.gov.

Electioneering Communications Period for the General Election Begins Friday

Tue, 2 Sep 2008 08:31:21 -0500

Electioneering communications are television and radio communications that refer to a clearly identified federal candidate and are distributed to the relevant electorate within 60 days prior to a general election or 30 days prior to a primary, nominating convention or caucus (including special elections). Individuals and other entities who make electioneering communications for the general election between the period beginning Friday, September 5, and ending on Tuesday, November 4, that aggregate in excess of $10,000 must file FEC Form 9 with the Commission within 24 hours of distribution to the public.

Contributions to Presidential Candidates

Mon, 25 Aug 2008 08:57:03 -0500

An individual may contribute up to $2,300 (multicandidate PAC: $5,000) to a Presidential candidate in the primary election campaign, whether or not the candidate accepts matching funds. (The $2,300 limit applies to the entire primary process, rather than to a single primary held in a particular state.) The primary election period ends on the date that the candidate accepts the nomination of the party. (For Democrats, that date will be 8/28/08, and for Republicans, that date will be 9/4/08.)

After that date, a major party nominee who chooses to accept public funding for the general election may not accept any private contributions to further his election. An individual, however, may contribute up to $2,300 to the legal/accounting compliance fund of a publicly funded major party nominee (multicandidate PAC: $5,000). In the case of a major party nominee who is not publicly funded, an individual may contribute up to $2,300 (multicandidate PAC: $5,000) to the general election campaign. For more information, see the brochure Public Funding of Presidential Elections.

August Reporting Reminder

Tue, 19 Aug 2008 08:33:47 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due Wednesday, August 20. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines. Electronic filers are reminded that they must use the new version 6.2 electronic filing format (see the June 17 tip for details.)

Now Appearing at Your County Fair: FEC Disclaimers!

Mon, 11 Aug 2008 08:52:15 -0500

2008 Edition of Nonconnected Guide Now Available Online

Mon, 4 Aug 2008 07:58:33 -0500

The Campaign Guide for Nonconnected Committees has been updated and is now online at http://www.fec.gov/pdf/nongui.pdf. Hard copy will be available for order in a few weeks. This Guide is used by political action committees NOT sponsored by a corporation, labor organization or trade association. Instead, nonconnected committees include committees such as PACs sponsored by partnerships or LLCs, leadership PACs, and PACs organized by unincorporated groups of individuals.

FEC Issues Public Statement on Millionaires' Amendment

Mon, 28 Jul 2008 08:38:10 -0500

The Commission has released a statement concerning the June 26 Supreme Court ruling in Davis v. FEC. See http://www.fec.gov/press/press2008/220080725millionaire.shtml.

Updated Publications Now Available in Hard Copy

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 08:32:58 -0500

No more long waits for download! Printed versions of the 2008 updated versions of both the FEC's compilation of Federal Election Campaign Laws (also known as the "Orange Book") and the Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates and Committees are now available free of charge from the FEC's Information Division. To order, call 1-800/424-9530 (press 6), or send an e-mail to info@fec.gov

July Filing Reminder

Mon, 14 Jul 2008 08:53:26 -0500

Quarterly filers have a report due Tuesday, July 15, 2008, and monthly filers have a report due on Sunday, July 20. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays. Electronic filers are reminded that they must use the new version 6.2 electronic filing format (see the June 17 tip for details).

New FEC Commissioners Assume Office: Will Hold First Open Meeting on July 10

Tue, 8 Jul 2008 10:52:40 -0500

The Federal Election Commission (FEC) will hold an open meeting on Thursday July 10, 2008. The meeting will be held at 10 a.m. at the CommissionÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂÃÂs offices at 999 E Street, N.W. in Washington. This will be the first meeting for new Commissioners Cynthia L. Bauerly of Minnesota, Caroline C. Hunter of Florida, Donald F. McGahn of the District of Columbia and Matthew S. Petersen of Utah. They, along with Steven T. Walther of Nevada who served previously as a recess appointee, were unanimously confirmed by the United States Senate on June 24.

Summer Deadlines and Vacations

Thu, 26 Jun 2008 08:38:08 -0500

It's Summer, so staff may be out of the office on vacation. In addition, the Commission will be closed Friday, July 4. Be sure to plan for these days off yet keep up with upcoming reporting deadlines. For many committees, the next report due is the July 15 quarterly report, but some have a report due sooner than that. The July quarterly is waived for committees filing the Kansas, Michigan, Missouri and Oklahoma Pre-Primary Reports, the Georgia Pre-Runoff Report, the Michigan Green Party Pre-Convention Report and the Maryland 4th District Post-General Report. Those campaigns -and PACs or party committees that have made previously undisclosed contributions/expenditures in connection with those elections - must instead file a Pre-Election report that covers both the quarterly and pre-election periods. In some cases, the report is due on July 3. For coverage dates and filing deadlines, consult the chart of Congressional pre-election reporting deadlines, available online at http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_primary_dates.shtml.

Reminder: Monthly Reports Due Friday, June 20 - Update Your Software

Tue, 17 Jun 2008 12:42:03 -0500

Committees filing on a monthly schedule must file disclosure reports covering the month of May by Friday, June 20. For additional information, please visit our Reporting Dates page at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates.shtml#monthly. On June 9, 2008, FECFile Version 6.2.1.0, supported by a new electronic filing format (Version 6.2), became available for download from the FEC Web site at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/updatelist.html. Any report filed after that date must be filed using the new software.

Collecting Agent Basics, Part 2

Mon, 9 Jun 2008 11:20:38 -0500

As the collecting agent, an entity associated with a separate segregated fund, such as the fund's connected organization or the organization's state PAC, may collect and transmit federal PAC contributions. To do this, it must first deposit the money in order to separate out the money intended for the federal PAC from other funds and fees collected for other reasons. The funds may be deposited in the collecting agent's own account (as long as separate records are kept) or a separate transmittal account for this purpose. To forward the money within the timelines mentioned in last week's tip, the collecting agent may write one check (or electronically transmit) representing all of the federal PAC funds it has collected during the specific time period in question. The PAC reports the contributions as separate contributions received from each individual contributor (rather than as a transfer from the collecting agent). For more information, see pages 28 - 30 of the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations.

Collecting Agent Basics, Part I

Mon, 2 Jun 2008 12:29:26 -0500

The term Collecting Agent is one that corporate/labor/trade PACs need to know. Collecting agent is the term used in FEC regulations at 102.6(b) and (c) to refer to the PAC's connected organization, or an affiliate or local unit of the connected organization, or a state PAC of any of these, when that entity collects and forwards money on behalf of the federal PAC (often as part of another activity). For example, a corporation acts as a collecting agent when it operates a payroll deduction plan for its corporate PAC. Another example: When the state PAC of a labor union collects money for both itself and for the union's federal PAC in a joint solicitation, that state PAC is acting as a collecting agent for the federal PAC. Entities that are collecting agents must follow the Act's recordkeeping rules, as well as timelines for separating and forwarding the federal PAC contributions (See the May 27 tip on those). You can read more about the collecting agent guidelines in the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations on page 28. Next week's tip will discuss how the collecting agent separates out the federal PAC funds and moves the money from its accounts to the federal PAC.

Forwarding and Depositing Contributions - Deadlines for Treasurers

Tue, 27 May 2008 14:11:08 -0500

May Filing Reminder

Mon, 19 May 2008 09:23:38 -0500

Monthly filing committees are reminded that they have a report due tomorrow, May 20, covering the month of April. Also, campaigns in certain states (and quarterly filing PACs or party committees that made contributions to them or expenditures on behalf of them between April 1 and May 21) have a pre-election report due next week for which the mailing deadline is on Memorial Day, Monday, May 26. Please remember that filing deadlines are not extended even when they fall on federal holidays. Accordingly, if you are not an electronic filer, please plan to postmark your pre-election report by register/certified mail or by overnight delivery before the 26th. Reports filed by methods other than registered, certified or overnight mail, or electronically, must be received before the Commission's (or the Secretary of the Senate's) close of business on the last business day before the deadline (i.e., Friday, May 23). States affected include Arkansas, Maine, North Dakota, South Carolina and Virginia. For the complete chart of pre-election reporting dates, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_primary_dates.shtml.

An Updated Version of Federal Campaign Election Laws (aka the Orange Book) is Now Online

Tue, 13 May 2008 08:28:58 -0500

The FEC's compilation of the Federal Election Campaign Act and other laws related to federal elections has been updated to include the provisions of the Honest Leadership and Open Government Act (HLOGA). The compilation (often referred to as the Orange Book) is now online at http://www.fec.gov/law/feca/feca.pdf (note: large file; please allow time to download). Printed copies will be available later this Summer.

Trade Association or Membership Organization?

Mon, 5 May 2008 09:48:24 -0500

Sometimes membership organizations are not sure whether the more specific rules for trade associations apply to them. While all trade associations are membership organizations under FEC rules, not all membership organizations are trade associations. For example, labor organizations and chambers of commerce fit into the broader definition of membership organization, but do not fit into the definition of a trade association. An organization is a trade association under FEC regulations if its membership is engaged in a similar or related line of commerce or business (i.e., all the members of the organization are in the same industry) and if the organization promotes and tries to improve the business conditions of its membership. To learn more about the rules that apply to trade associations, membership organizations and labor organizations, register now for the FEC's June 23-24 conference in Washington DC for these organizations.

Maryland 4th District Special Election Reports

Mon, 28 Apr 2008 11:40:40 -0500

There will be a special general election in Maryland's 4th district on June 17. Due to the timing of this election, candidates in this election do not have to file a July Quarterly report on July 15; rather, they should file a special pre-primary report due June 5 (covering April 1 through May 28) and a special post-election report due July 17 (covering May 29 through June 30). If your PAC or party committee files quarterly reports this year, but makes or has made contributions since April 1 to any of the candidates in this special election (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them), you may have to file these or additional reports.

Nonconnected PACs - It's Your Turn for Training!

Mon, 21 Apr 2008 10:55:50 -0500

The FEC invites nonconnected PACs, including leadership PACs and PACs sponsored by partnerships, to register for a one-day seminar in Washington, DC on May 14. Workshops will focus on fundraising rules, reporting and best practices. Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/conferences/2008/nonconnectedseminar2008.shtml for details and registration information.

April Filing Reminder

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 09:40:51 -0500

Quarterly filers have a report due Tuesday, April 15, 2008, and monthly filers have a report due on Saturday, April 20. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays.

Some must file Pre- or Post-Election Reports instead of April Quarterly

Mon, 7 Apr 2008 10:59:41 -0500

The April Quarterly Report is waived for committees filing the Indiana, North Carolina and Pennsylvania Pre-Primary Reports; the Illinois/14th District, Indiana/7th District, Louisiana/1st District and Louisiana/6th District Special Election Post-General Reports, and the Utah Constitution Party, Utah Libertarian Party, Indiana Libertarian Party and Michigan US Taxpayers Party Pre-Convention Reports. Those campaigns--and other quarterly filers (such as PACs or party committees) that have made previously undisclosed contributions/expenditures in connection with those primaries, conventions and special elections--must instead file a Pre- or Post-Election report that covers both the quarterly and pre- or post-election periods. In some cases, the report is due this week. For coverage dates and filing deadlines, consult the chart of Congressional pre-primary reporting deadlines, available online at http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_primary_dates.shtml and the list of special election reports, available online at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates.shtml.

Have You Filed Your Form 2 Yet?

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 09:50:28 -0500

Incumbents are reminded that they must file a new Statement of Candidacy (FEC Form 2) (Form 2 Instructions) each election cycle. The Statement of Candidacy is due within 15 days after they have raised or spent more than $5,000 towards the next election, even if no other information about their committee is changing. In the block for "identification number," incumbents enter the same Candidate ID number they were issued for the previous cycle (beginning with H for House, S for Senate or P for President). (Note: Candidates who are filing Form 2 for the first time should leave the ID number section blank.)

Its Primary Season, Even for Unopposed and Independent Candidates

Mon, 24 Mar 2008 11:49:12 -0500

Unopposed and independent candidates are still entitled to a separate contribution limit for the primary (or convention, if in a state that is holding one to nominate candidates for the general). Unopposed candidates must consider the date on which the election is held to be the date of the election for purposes of designating contributions to the primary. Independent or third party candidates may choose one of these dates to be their "primary" date: (1) The last day on which, under state law, a candidate may qualify for a position on the general election ballot; (2) The date of the last major party primary, caucus or convention in the state; or (3) For third party candidates, the date of the nomination by their party. See page 18 of the Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates and Committees for more information on how contribution limits work. In terms of reporting, both unopposed and independent/third party candidates, must file the pre-election report applicable to their state, even if they are not actually participating in a primary election or nominating convention.

Reminder: Monthly Reports Due Thursday, March 20

Mon, 17 Mar 2008 10:38:55 -0500

Committees filing on a monthly schedule must file disclosure reports covering the month of February by Thursday, March 20. For additional information, please visit our Reporting Dates page at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates.shtml#monthly.

Debt Disclosure, Part 3: Understanding Net Debts Outstanding

Mon, 10 Mar 2008 10:12:01 -0500

This is the third of our monthly tips on proper reporting of debts owed by committees. In the middle of primary season, campaigns are reminded that they may only accept contributions to retire debt from an election if they have net debts outstanding for that election -- that is, more debts outstanding than cash-on-hand for that particular election. For example, a campaign wins its primary on March 10, but has $150,000 in cash-on-hand raised for the primary, and $300,000 in debts remaining from the primary. The campaign has a net debt outstanding for primary 2008 of $150,000 ($300K in debts - $150K in cash on hand). As a result, the campaign may raise $150,000 in contributions specifically designed for "primary debt 2008," but only from contributors who have not already given the maximum amount for the 2008 primary election. Note that the campaign must continually adjust the net debts outstanding calculation to adjust for funds raised and bills paid, and it must retain this documentation in its records. Click here for more examples and information on how to comply with the net debts outstanding requirements.

New FECFile E-mail Notification Feature!

Mon, 3 Mar 2008 09:00:19 -0500

FECFile (the FEC's e-filing software) now has the capability to send confirmation receipts (or rejection notices) to two different e-mail addresses. This feature is really useful for those treasurers who have someone else e-file their committees' reports: not only can the person who actually uploads the report receive an e-mail, the treasurer can, too. Committees interested in using this new feature can now provide two e-mail addresses as part of the upload process when e-filing reports (this is done at the "Settings" step of the upload process). Filers who use vendor software should check with their vendors to see if the vendor incorporated this new feature in its software. To get the latest version of FECFile, click here.

2008 Coordinated Party Expenditure Limits are Now Available

Mon, 25 Feb 2008 09:11:12 -0500

The limits available for national and state party committees to spend in connection with the general election campaigns of candidates for federal office have been updated and are now available online. The limit for party committees to spend on 2008 general elections for House candidates is $42,100 ($84,100 in states with only one congressional district). The limit for Senate campaigns is based on a state's voting age population; thus the limits range from $84,100 in sparsely populated states to over $2 million in California. Finally, the national party committees may spend up to $19,151,200 on coordinated party expenditures in connection with the general election for President. (State and local party committees need prior written approval from the national committee before making coordinated party expenditures in connection with the Presidential election.)

Midwinters Filing Reminder

Tue, 19 Feb 2008 10:20:02 -0500

Some Congressional and Senatorial campaigns, and the PACs and party committees that support or oppose them, have filings due soon: (1) Quarterly Filers and Pre-Primary Reporting - If you are a quarterly-filing PAC, party or candidate committee involved in a March primary, you will need to submit a pre-primary report. Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/charts_primary_dates.shtml for a complete chart of pre-primary reporting dates. (2) Monthly Filers - Your February monthly report (covering January 1-31) is due tomorrow, February 20. As always, monthly filers do not need to worry about pre-primary reporting.

Debt Disclosure, Part 2 - Continuously Report Debts Until Repaid

Mon, 11 Feb 2008 08:28:02 -0500

This is the second in a series of monthly tips on how to properly report debts owed by your committee. Last month we discussed how and when to first itemize a debt owed by the committee. After a debt is first itemized on an FEC report, a committee must continue to itemize the debt owed on Schedule D on each subsequent report up to and including the report on which it reports repaying the debt in full. An example appears in your Campaign Guide in the Reporting chapter.

A Very Special February Tip

Mon, 4 Feb 2008 09:05:26 -0500

There are special elections coming up in Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana and Mississippi in the next few weeks, and with them, special election FEC reports. Links to all reporting schedules for campaigns involved in special elections appear on the Reporting Dates page at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates.shtml under the heading, "Special Elections." Quarterly-filing PACs and party committees that make contributions or expenditures in connection with any of those special elections should consult the Federal Register notice for that election, also available at the link above. In addition, the links to charts outlining the applicable FEA dates that apply for involved party committees, and the 48-hour and 24-hour reporting periods that may apply to a PAC or party that makes independent expenditures in connection with the special election may also be found on the Reporting Dates web page. (Monthly filing PACs and party committees are not required to file special election reports.)

Year-End Reports Due This Week

Mon, 28 Jan 2008 09:28:45 -0500

All committees are reminded that the Year-End Report is due this Thursday, January 31st. Important: If your committee files electronically, the report must be filed using the new electronic filing formats.

Warm Up Your Campaign Finance Law Knowledge.

Wed, 23 Jan 2008 08:06:30 -0500

It's cold outside, but you can get yourself warmed up for the election year by attending an FEC conference. Registration is now ongoing for our February Orlando conference for campaigns, SSFs and party committees and our March Washington DC conference for corporations and their SSFs. Visit http://www.fec.gov/info/outreach.shtml for more information on FEC training opportunities.

Debt Disclosure, Part 1 - the Basics

Tue, 15 Jan 2008 07:47:08 -0500

This is the first in a series of monthly tips on how to properly report debts owed by your committee. All committees must report debts and obligations (including written media contracts, promises or agreements to make expenditures) owed by the committee on Schedule D. A debt of $500 or less is reported on Schedule D on the next report filed once it has been outstanding 60 days from the date incurred. (If the debt is paid within 60 days, the payment is simply reported as an operating expenditure). On the other hand, all debts exceeding $500 are required to be itemized on Schedule D. Note that regularly recurring administrative expenses (such as rent and utilities) are not considered to be debts until they are past due.

Important Reminder re: Form 3Z-1 for 2008 House and Senate Campaigns

Mon, 7 Jan 2008 09:00:22 -0500

All principal campaign committees of House and Senate candidates running in 2008 must file FEC Form 3Z-1 with the Year-End report due Thursday, January 31, in order to provide important information to opposing candidates required under the "Millionaires' Amendment." Thus, your campaign must file this form, even if you do not think your campaign will be affected by the Millionaires' Amendment. For electronic filers, consult your software vendor to learn how to generate this form. (FECFile users: Click here for technical support contact information.) For paper filers, Form 3Z-1 is the last page of the paper Form 3 packet; alternatively, click here to access the form and its instructions.

New Year, New FEC Software Update

Mon, 31 Dec 2007 11:13:37 -0500

On January 2, 2008, FECFile Version 6.1.1.1, supported by a new electronic filing format (Version 6.1), will be available for download from the FEC Web site at http://www.fec.gov/elecfil/updatelist.html. Any report filed after that date must be filed using the new software.

All electronic filers must file their 2007 Year-End report using the new electronic filing format. If you use FECFile, download the new update early in the month; if you use commercial software, contact your vendor to ensure they are using the latest electronic filing format (Version 6.1).

Phones are Still Being Answered at the FEC

Wed, 26 Dec 2007 09:36:01 -0500

As you may know, the Senate has failed to confirm the appointments of four commissioners whose nominations were pending. As a result, the appointments of Commissioners Lenhard, Von Spakovsky and Walther will expire with the end of this session of Congress (December 31). Nevertheless, please note that the federal campaign finance law and FEC regulations remain in effect, and the Commission will remain open and functioning next year. Our conference program will continue as scheduled, and as always, you may still contact the FEC at 1-800/424-9530 or at <a href="mailto:info@fec.gov" for help with your questions about complying with current federal campaign finance laws

Campaign Finance Law Training in Florida Makes the Perfect Holiday Gift!

Mon, 17 Dec 2007 09:24:03 -0500

Need an update on the new bundling and travel provisions of the Honest Leadership & Government Act? Or does your staff need basic training on federal campaign finance law? Preferably in some place that is warm? Register now for the FEC's February 12-13 conference in Orlando, Florida!

PAC/Party Reporting in Connection with Special Elections

Mon, 3 Dec 2007 12:34:18 -0500

With a number of special elections on the horizon, quarterly-filing PACs and party committees may be confused about which resource to use to determine if they have any reporting responsibilities in connection with a particular special election. Although the prior notices which are sent to candidates in a special election contain the filing dates and are available online, those are geared to and contain information which is specific only to the campaigns in a special election. An accompanying Federal Register notice, however, is written for all committees and contains the pre- and post-election filing dates. Thus, PACs and party committees are best advised to use the Federal Register notice for the special election in which they are involved. Links to all current Federal Register notices for special elections appear on the Reporting Dates page at http://www.fec.gov/info/report_dates.shtml under the heading, "Special Elections." In addition, the links to charts outlining the applicable FEA dates that apply for involved party committees, and the 48-hour and 24-hour reporting periods that may apply to a PAC or party that makes independent expenditures in connection with the special election may also be found on the Reporting Dates web page.

Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings

Mon, 26 Nov 2007 08:13:39 -0500

Save the Date!!

Tue, 20 Nov 2007 08:01:34 -0500

Weren't able to get to an FEC conference in 2007? Or need to get updated on the new provisions in the law regarding air travel and bundling disclosure? We will begin registration soon for our Orlando Regional conference in February and three Spring conferences in DC for campaigns, parties and corporate/labor/trade PACs. Take a look now and note which conference is right for your organization. And subscribe to our special e-mail notification list so that we can tell you when registration begins and you can be first in line!

November FEC To-Do List

Tue, 13 Nov 2007 09:13:08 -0500

(1) Monthly filers are reminded they have a report due Tuesday, November 20. (2) Quarterly filers and campaigns involved in the VA/01 and OH/05 House special general elections have a special pre-general report due Thursday, November 29. (3) Submit your comments on various FEC rulemakings implementing recently passed laws. Comments on the Commission's rulemaking on air travel are due today (November 13) and comments on the Commission's rulemaking on disclosure by campaigns and other committees of lobbyist/registrants bundling contributions are due November 29.

Election Day 2008 is One Year Away

Mon, 5 Nov 2007 08:32:52 -0500

Prepare by making sure you have the latest FEC information. Add this page (Tips for Treasurers) to your favorites -- there is a lot of information on this page to keep you updated on the campaign finance laws and help you comply with them. Make sure you are up to date on the 2008 filing dates and have the latest versions of our publications. Finally, make sure you have subscribed to the FEC Record and FECMail - two great ways to get the latest information on FEC happenings.

For Party Committees: 2008 FEA Dates Released (Some in Effect Now)

Mon, 29 Oct 2007 08:28:49 -0500

The 2008 list of federal election activity (FEA) periods for each state is now available. During these time periods, party committees may not use nonfederal funds to pay for certain GOTV and voter ID activities (aka Types 1 and 2 of FEA). Instead, they may use either 100% federal funds or a mix of federal and Levin funds. For more information, see Chapter 8 and Chapter 14 of the Campaign Guide for Political Parties.

This is Your Chance to Comment on the Proposed New Travel Regulations

Mon, 22 Oct 2007 08:34:47 -0500

The Honest Leadership and Open Government Act of 2007 (HLOGA), signed into law September 14, 2007, amended the law to prohibit Senate and Presidential candidates, and their campaigns, from spending campaign funds for travel on noncommercial aircraft, unless they pay the charter rate. House candidates, and their campaigns and leadership PACs, are prohibited from spending any campaign funds for travel on private, noncommercial aircraft. The FEC is preparing rules to implement these new travel restrictions, as well as a formal definition of "leadership PAC" and seeks your comments by November 13.

Ohio 5th District Special Election Reports

Mon, 15 Oct 2007 08:54:15 -0500

There is a special primary election in Ohio's 5th congressional district on November 6th. Due to the timing of the election, candidates in this election do not have to file an October Quarterly report today; rather, they should file a special pre-primary election report due October 25 (covering July 1 through October 17). If your PAC or party committee files on a semi-annual basis this year, but makes or has made contributions to any of the candidates in this special election (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them), you may have to file these or other additional reports. See this Federal Register notice for details.

October Filing Reminder

Tue, 9 Oct 2007 09:27:57 -0500

All campaigns have a quarterly report due on Monday, October 15, and all monthly filers have a report due Saturday, October 20. If you need help with electronic filing or reporting questions, contact the FEC this week at 1-800/424-9530 (when prompted, press 4 for Electronic Filing Office; 5 for the Reports Analysis Division or 6 for the Information Division).

Get Up to Speed on Party Rules and New Laws

Mon, 1 Oct 2007 10:17:00 -0500

The FEC has just released the new online version of the Campaign Guide for Political Party Committees. Hard copy will be available in a few weeks; to order, send an e-mail with your address to info@fec.gov. To further educate yourself on FEC rules for party committees (and those for campaigns and corporate/labor/trade PACs too), please plan to attend our November 6-7 regional conference in St. Louis, where you can review fundraising basics and receive training on best practices and the recent HLOG Act. The registration fee goes up on October 13, so register now!

Mark Your Calendar

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 10:13:58 -0500

The FEC has just posted on its web site some important rulemaking and reporting dates that you'll want to note on your calendar. First, on October 1, comments are due on the Commission's Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on electioneering communications. Then, on October 5, pre-election reports are due for committees involved in the MA/05 special general election. Looking ahead to 2008, the very latest election reporting information is now available on our "Filing Information" page. You'll find dates for Congressional Pre-Election reports, electioneering communications, 48- and 24-Hour Reports of Independent Expenditures, Federal Election Activity dates and coordinated communications periods. If all of this is too much for your datebook to handle, the Commission makes its own calendar available 24/7 on FEC.gov.

New Campaign Finance Law Signed by President Bush

Mon, 17 Sep 2007 10:05:37 -0500

S.1, The Honest Leadership and Open Government Act of 2007, was signed into law on September 14. The new law includes two major provisions for political committees: disclosure of bundled contributions and restrictions on the use of campaign funds for noncommercial air travel. The FEC will undertake rulemakings to implement this new legislation; look for additional information to be posted online and in the Record soon.

Join the FEC in the Heartland for the Last Conference of 2007

Mon, 10 Sep 2007 08:23:29 -0500

Registration is now open for the FEC's regional conference in St. Louis, November 6-7. This will be the last FEC conference in 2007 and the only conference this election season in the midwest - Don't miss it! You'll have a chance to meet FEC Commissioners and senior staff, all the while networking and sharing ideas with other public affairs professionals from around the country. Space is limited so early registration is highly recommended!

Sign up now for the FEC's new e-mail service!

Tue, 4 Sep 2007 08:55:37 -0500

Sign up now for the FEC's new e-mail service! The FEC has just launched a new internet tool that allows users to sign-up to receive notification whenever information important to them is added or changed on the Commission's site. With a single click, users can now register to receive updates for one or more specific pages at fec.gov including news releases, support for committee treasurers, updates on Commission decisions, etc. The system allows people to keep track of FEC actions in real time without receiving unwanted email about subjects not directly of interest. Individual pages throughout FEC.gov offer subscription links, marked with a blue envelope. To receive updates for a particular page, simply click on the link. Alternatively, visit http://www.fec.gov/info/fecmaill.shtml to set up your subscription.

Back to School with the FEC

Mon, 27 Aug 2007 09:08:45 -0500

With a new school year underway, it's a good time to think about educating yourself in preparation for the 2008 elections. The FEC will conduct two conferences this fall: September 26-27, in Seattle (registration is now open) and November 6-7, in St. Louis (registration begins in September). These conferences, intended for House and Senate campaigns, corporate/labor/trade PACs, and state and local political party committees, offer workshops on fundraising, reporting and communications. All workshops focus on best practices and ways to avoid compliance problems. For questions or to be notified as registration opens for FEC conferences and workshops, please send an e-mail with your name, organization and contact information to Conferences@fec.gov.

Presidential Funding Guide Now Available

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 14:29:11 -0500

Presidential campaigns that plan to seek public funding may now download the updated version of the FEC's Guideline for Presentation in Good Order. This Audit Division publication explains in detail how Presidential campaigns should prepare their requests for public funds.

Monthly Reporting Reminder

Mon, 13 Aug 2007 08:57:45 -0500

Committees that file monthly are reminded that their next report is due Monday, August 20. The report covers activity for the month of July 2007. Bonus: If your committee files monthly, it does not have to file any special election reports (see the August 3 tip).

Special Elections in Massachusetts and California Require Special Reports in August

Fri, 3 Aug 2007 09:10:00 -0500

There is a special runoff election in California's 37th congressional district on August 21 and a special primary election in Massachusetts' 5th congressional districts on September 4, with reports due for each of these in August. If your PAC or party committee files on a semi-annual basis this year, but makes or has made contributions to any of the candidates in these races (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them), you may have to file these or other additional reports. For more information on the CA/37 election, see the June Record and this Federal Register notice; for more information on the MA/05 election, see the August Record and this Federal Register notice.

Last Chance Reminder for Mid-Year Filers

Mon, 30 Jul 2007 07:59:28 -0500

Those PACs and parties who filed quarterly in 2006 have their first report due for 2007 on July 31 (unless they made a contribution or expenditure in connection with one of this year's special elections, in which case, a special election report should have been filed). If you forgot that filings are done semi-annually in a non-election year, and filed an extra quarterly report in April, simply have your Mid-Year report pick up in activity from the date your last report left off.

11 CFR, Part Two

Mon, 23 Jul 2007 11:15:26 -0500

The long-awaited 2007 hard copy editions of the FEC's regulations at 11 CFR have arrived! You may order your copy by sending an e-mail to info@fec.gov or calling 1-800/424-9530 (press 6). Of course, if you find it more convenient, you may still print out the pages you need at http://www.fec.gov/law/cfr/cfr.shtml. And for those of you who want to have a say in next year's edition, the Commission recently published a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking on the use of campaign funds (comments due: August 20), and plans to publish another one soon on electioneering communications.

Your FEC To-Do List for the Week of July 16

Mon, 16 Jul 2007 08:27:09 -0500

(1) For all campaigns, political party committees and corporate/labor/trade PACs -- Register now for the Commission's regional training conference in Seattle, September 26-27. (2) If you are a monthly filing committee, don't forget to file the report due Friday, July 20. (Quarterly filers should have filed their reports this past Sunday).

No Summer Vacation for FEC Reports: Mid-July Reporting Reminders

Mon, 9 Jul 2007 07:52:16 -0500

All campaigns are reminded that they have a quarterly report due on Sunday, July 15. All monthly filers are reminded that their next report, covering the month of June, is due Friday, July 20. The FEC's Public Records Office will be open to receive reports next weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m both days. (For Senate candidates using regular mail or hand delivery, plan to file by the Secretary of the Senate's close of business on Friday, July 13.) If you need help with electronic filing or reporting questions, contact the FEC this week.

Important Reminder re: Form 3Z-1 for 2008 House and Senate Campaigns

Mon, 2 Jul 2007 09:21:20 -0500

All principal campaign committees of House and Senate candidates running in 2008 must file FEC Form 3Z-1 with the July Quarterly report due Sunday, July 15 in order to provide important information to opposing candidates required under the "Millionaires' Amendment." Thus, your campaign must file this form, even if you do not think your campaign will be affected by the Millionaires' Amendment. For electronic filers, consult your software vendor to learn how to generate this form. (FECFile users: Click here for technical support contact information.) For paper filers, Form 3Z-1 is the last page of the paper Form 3 packet; alternatively, click here to access the form and its instructions.

Will you meet the new best efforts defense if you don't file your report on time?

Mon, 25 Jun 2007 13:50:29 -0500

New regulations allow committees facing an administrative fine for late filing to use "best efforts" as a defense. In order to claim "best efforts," committees must demonstrate that they could not file due to reasonably unforeseen circumstances beyond their control and that they filed the late report within 24 hours after those circumstances ended. Excuses involving negligence, illness, inexperience, unavailability of committee staff or treasurer, failure to know filing dates and failure to use Commission software properly do not qualify for the "best efforts" defense. The rules include examples of what does and does not meet this new defense. Ultimately, the best thing you can do: File your reports on time!

Monthly Reports Due.

Mon, 18 Jun 2007 10:47:19 -0500

Committees that file on a monthly schedule have a report due Wednesday, June 20. The report covers activity for the month of May.

Your June FEC To-Do List.

Mon, 11 Jun 2007 08:44:11 -0500

There's a lot going on at the FEC this month. Comments on the Commission's notice of proposed rulemaking on hybrid communications are due today, June 11. Campaigns and other quarterly filers active in the special general election in Georgia's 10th District have reports due Tuesday, June 19, and those active in California's 37th District have special election reports due Thursday, June 14th and Tuesday, June 26. Monthly filers have a report due Wednesday, June 20. Finally, registration is still open for free informal workshops to be held in Denver, June 20 and 21, and in Phoenix, June 27 and 28. What's the best way to keep all of these dates straight? Use the Commission's calendar!

Spending with (an Acceptable) Purpose

Wed, 6 Jun 2007 09:29:23 -0500

Whenever an expenditure is itemized on an FEC report, a complete and specific description of the purpose of the expenditure must be disclosed. Certain descriptions and phrases, such as "admin.," "consulting" and "professional services" are inadequate. The FEC has published an updated list of inadequate purpose descriptions for use by treasurers.

Get Prepared Now to E-File this Summer

Tue, 29 May 2007 13:27:28 -0500

If you are a newly registered committee and want/have to file FEC reports electronically this year, now is the time to contact the FEC's e-filing office and get a password. With FEC reports due July 15th or July 31st for many committees, you will want to have your password in place and any software kinks worked out before the July filing rush.

Help Influence the Rules for Certain Party Ads Next Year

Mon, 21 May 2007 08:09:33 -0500

The FEC has published a notice of proposed rulemaking on hybrid communications by political party committees. These communications refer to a clearly identified federal candidates and also generically refer to other candidates of a party without clearly identifying them. The FEC's proposed rules seek to establish guidelines for how party committees should attribute, pay for and report such advertisements. Comments on the proposed rules are due June 11, 2007, as are requests to testify at a July 11 hearing on the proposed rules.

Your FEC To-Do List for May

Tue, 15 May 2007 11:28:58 -0500

(1) Monthly filers must file the May monthly report, due on Sunday, May 20. Please note that the FEC will not be open to receive paper reports. Paper filers will need to plan accordingly to mail the report before Sunday by registered, certified or overnight mail. (2) The FEC will host informal campaign finance workshops in Phoenix, Denver and Atlanta this summer. If you are in any of the areas we will be visiting, go to our outreach web page to sign-up for a workshop today. (3) Presidential candidates file personal financial disclosure reports with the FEC today, May 15. Copies of the reports will be available through the agency's Public Records Office later this month after their review by the Office of General Counsel.

Special Election Reports Due in June

Mon, 7 May 2007 14:30:50 -0500

Committees that normally file quarterly during election years should be aware that if they contribute to, or make expenditures on behalf of, a candidate in one of several special general elections happening in June (in CA/37 and GA/10 House Districts), they will trigger a special election report. Details and the applicable Federal Register notices are available on the FEC's Reporting Dates web page.

Corporate/Labor Guides Are Now Available for Order

Mon, 30 Apr 2007 08:32:22 -0500

The hard copy printed version of the 2007 edition of the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations is now in stock. This is a must-have for any individual involved with a corporation, labor organization or trade association's PAC. Order your free copy of the Guide by calling 1-800/424-9530 (press 6) or sending an e-mail with your mailing address to info@fec.gov.

Stay In Control of Your Committee

Mon, 23 Apr 2007 08:04:56 -0500

The Commission recently published guidance for political committees on best practices in setting up internal controls to prevent embezzlement, as well as a statement of policy on reporting errors caused due to misappropriation of funds by committee staff. Committees are encouraged to put these safeguards in place to prevent misappropriations of funds and incorrect reporting.

Your FEC To-Do List for This Week

Mon, 16 Apr 2007 09:11:26 -0500

If you are a monthly filing committee, don't forget to file the report due this Friday, April 20. (Quarterly filers should have filed their reports this past Sunday). If you are with a trade association, labor organization or incorporated membership organization, register now for the Commission's conference for those organizations, June 4-5, in Washington DC.

At least it's not due on tax day this year!

Mon, 9 Apr 2007 08:58:04 -0500

Federal candidates' campaign committees must file an FEC April Quarterly report due this Sunday, April 15. (PACs and party committees are not required to file this report.) Unlike the deadline for filing your taxes, the FEC's April 15 filing deadline is fixed and cannot be extended. The FEC's Public Records Office will be open to receive reports this weekend on Saturday and Sunday from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m both days. (For Senate candidates using regular mail or hand delivery, plan to file by the Secretary of the Senate's close of business on Friday, April 13.) If you need help with electronic filing or reporting questions, contact the FEC this week.

New Corporate/Labor Guide Available.

Mon, 2 Apr 2007 12:14:28 -0500

The long-awaited new edition of the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations is now available in PDF format. [6.17MB] This edition is current as of January 2007. A printed version should be available by the end of April. To order a copy, please call our toll-free information line at 800-424-9530 or e-mail us at info@fec.gov.

Why Pay More?

Mon, 26 Mar 2007 09:58:33 -0500

Sign up now and avoid paying a late fee to attend the FEC Spring Conferences! Corporate PACs can avoid a late fee by registering for their April conference by March 30. Campaigns and party committees should register by April 13 to avoid paying a late fee for their May conference (link to it). Also, registration will start soon for the June 4-5 conference for trade associations, membership organizations and labor organizations. Subscribe to our e-mail list and you'll get the first crack at registration once it opens.

Your FEC To-Do List for This Week

Mon, 19 Mar 2007 10:03:31 -0500

If you are a monthly filing committee, don't forget to file the report due this Tuesday, March 20. If you are with a campaign or a party committee, register now for the Commission's conference on May 10-11 for House and Senate campaigns and national, state and local political party committees.

As Seen on TV

Mon, 12 Mar 2007 09:23:22 -0500

If you watched CBS's Without a Trace on March 11, you saw the FBI try to solve a missing Senator's disappearance by tracking her campaign finance transactions. You also saw the lead character state correctly that an individual cannot give $5 million to a Senate race (the actual limit is $2,300 per election). But then the character noted that the contributor got around the limits by giving bonuses to all his employees and then having them all make contributions. For the record, that's called a contribution in the name of another and it's illegal as well. In fact, criminal penalties and jail time can result when a contribution in the name of another is knowingly made or received. If your campaign becomes aware of a possibility that contributions it has received were possibly illegally made in the name of another, it should refund the money to the original source of funds, or disgorge the funds to the US Treasury.

Make it Your Business to Attend the FEC's Corporate Conference.

Mon, 5 Mar 2007 08:24:37 -0500

Registration is now open for the FEC's Conference for Corporations, April 24-25, 2007. Review the basics and update your knowledge of the laws affecting your federal corporate PAC. You'll have a chance to meet FEC Commissioners, senior staff and the person who reviews your FEC report, all the while networking and sharing ideas with other corporate PAC professionals from around the country. Space is limited so early registration is highly recommended!

It's Conference Time!

Mon, 26 Feb 2007 08:28:05 -0500

Have you been looking forward to the long-awaited return of FEC Conferences? We will begin registration soon for our three Spring conferences in DC for campaigns, parties and corporate/labor/trade PACs. Take a look and note which conference is right for your organization. And subscribe to our special e-mail notification list so that we can tell you when registration begins and you can be first in line!

Save the Date!

Tue, 20 Feb 2007 08:51:21 -0500

The FEC has announced its 2007 conference dates and locations. Our conferences are designed to help committees learn about the campaign finance law. Over the years, these sessions have often sold out quickly, so we recommend that you sign up for our special conferences e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for a new workshop or conference. To subscribe, simply send an e-mail with your contact information to conferences@fec.gov. You'll be one of the first to know when a training opportunity becomes available.

Monthly Filing Reminder

Mon, 12 Feb 2007 11:11:06 -0500

Enjoy the February 19th President's Day holiday, but don't forget that monthly filers' first report of the year, covering January, is due Tuesday, February 20. The FEC recently e-mailed a reporting reminder to all monthly filers who had disclosed an e-mail address. If you have questions or need assistance with your report, please remember that the FEC will be closed Monday for the holiday, so plan ahead to resolve any issues this week.

Have You Updated Your E-Mail Address Yet?

Mon, 5 Feb 2007 10:48:16 -0500

The FEC now sends all courtesy materials to committees exclusively by electronic mail. Reporting reminders and other mailings concerning changes in the law are no longer sent by U.S. mail. As a result, it is important that every committee disclose a current e-mail address on its Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1). For more information, click here.

Deadlines, Deadlines!

Mon, 29 Jan 2007 08:03:50 -0500

Reminder: All committees must file a Year-End report, due this Wednesday, January 31, 2007. Also, comments are due today, January 29, on the Commission's proposed statement of policy on self-reporting of campaign finance law violations. What is the best way to keep up with all the various deadlines? Bookmark and check the FEC's calendar regularly -- it is continuously updated with the latest Commission developments and deadlines.

New Contribution Limits for 2007-08 Are Now Available!

Mon, 22 Jan 2007 10:14:29 -0500

Certain contribution limits for individuals and non-multicandidate committees making contributions have been indexed for inflation in the new election cycle. The limit for individuals giving to candidates is now $2,300/per election, per candidate. Click here for the other adjusted limits. The limit for multicandidate committees giving to candidates remains set at $5,000 per election, per candidate.

Indexed Contribution Limits for 2008 Election Cycle Coming Soon.

Thu, 18 Jan 2007 10:38:09 -0500

The Commission has received numerous inquiries concerning the anticipated increase in the contribution limits that are adjusted for inflation in odd-numbered years. Those limits include the per-election cap on contributions from individuals to candidates, the calendar-year limit on contributions from individuals to national party committees and the overall ceiling for contributions by an individual during an election cycle. The Commission expects to receive the necessary Consumer Price Index (CPI) figure from the Department of Labor soon. Although the FEC will announce the new limits officially through a Federal Register notice, we will post the new limits online as soon as they are available.

2007 Reporting Dates Are Now Available

Wed, 10 Jan 2007 16:07:41 -0500

The Commission has posted on its web site the 2007 reporting schedules for candidates, parties and PACs. Grab your new calendar and make a note of the due dates!

Last Chance To Have a Say in Several Proposed FEC Enforcement Policies

Wed, 3 Jan 2007 09:47:28 -0500

Comments are due in the next few days on several recently published draft rulemakings and policy statements. Topics include best efforts to comply with recordkeeping and reporting (comments due 1/8), the use of a best efforts defense in administrative fines challenges (comments due 1/8) and hearings for respondents in enforcement cases (comments due 1/5). Click on the link for each topic to access the proposed reforms and the instructions for submitting comments. Next week: Reporting schedules for 2007.

Give Yourself the Gift of Education

Tue, 26 Dec 2006 08:25:13 -0500

The FEC periodically offers roundtable workshops and conferences to help committees learn about the campaign finance law. Over the years, these sessions have often sold out quickly. So don't get left out in the cold this winter, sign up for our e-mail list to be notified when registration begins for a new workshop or conference. To subscribe, simply send an e-mail with your contact information to conferences@fec.gov. You'll be among the first to know when a training opportunity becomes available.

Keep Your Contact Information Up to Date

Mon, 18 Dec 2006 09:37:47 -0500

The FEC will stop sending reporting reminders and other courtesy mailings via paper starting January 1. Instead, all reminders will be sent by e-mail to the address listed on your committee's Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1). The Commission recently sent letters to every treasurer to advise them of this change. The letters also listed the e-mail address currently on record for the committee. To confirm your committee's address, please check your filings online. If your e-mail address is incorrect, or if you have not previously provided one, please amend your Form 1. To do so, paper filers may use FEC Form 1 [PDF][Instructions] or write a letter with the information that has changed (please be sure to include your committee's FEC ID number). Electronic filers must amend their information electronically by sending a new Form 1 to the FEC. Your filing software should be able to generate Form 1; for more assistance, contact the tech support number for your software vendor. FECFile users may call 1-800/424-9530 (extension 1307) for technical assistance. Next week: How to find out about FEC training opportunities.

Here's Your Chance To Have a Say in FEC Enforcement Policies

Mon, 11 Dec 2006 08:31:42 -0500

The FEC seeks your comments on several recently published draft rulemakings and policy statements. Topics include best efforts to comply with recordkeeping and reporting, hearings for respondents in enforcement cases, self-reporting of campaign finance violations, and the use of a best efforts defense in administrative fines challenges. Comments are due in January (check each notice for the specific date).

'Tis the Season for Holiday Greetings

Tue, 5 Dec 2006 09:11:44 -0500

The same disclaimer rules that apply to campaign-related mailings apply to holiday greeting cards as well, even though they usually do not solicit funds or contain express advocacy. If a campaign sends out more than 500 holiday greetings (i.e., a mass mailing), it must include a box on the card to inform recipients that it was paid for by the campaign committee. A PAC or party committee that sends a holiday mass mailing must include a box on the card that lets recipients know the committee paid for it, identifies the committee's full name and street address, phone number or web address, and states that the communication is not authorized by any candidate or candidate's committee. For details and examples, see the Commission's brochure, Special Notices on Political Ads and Solicitations.

FEC Post-General Report Due December 7

Mon, 27 Nov 2006 09:18:12 -0500

Reminder: The Post-General Report is due for PACs, party committees and all general election candidates on Thursday, December 7. This report covers the time period from the date where your last report left off through November 27. All PACs and party committees registered with the FEC are reminded that they must file this report on time, regardless of activity. House and Senate campaigns are reminded that they must file this report using the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines. Next week: FEC rules that apply to sending Holiday greetings.

Contributions to Retire Debts

Mon, 20 Nov 2006 11:00:02 -0500

Campaigns with net debts outstanding (i.e., more debt than cash on hand) after an election is over may accept contributions to retire the debt. Such contributions must be properly designated (e.g., 2006 general debt) and may not exceed the contributor's limit for the designated election. Click here for an example of a properly reported contribution that was designated to retire debt. Undesignated contributions received by a campaign count towards the limit for the candidate's next election (e.g., the 2008 primary). While those funds could be used to retire debt, a campaign with net debts outstanding may choose to ask the contributor to redesignate the contribution for 2006 general debt retirement, provided that redesignation does not cause the donor to exceed his/her limit for that election. Click here for an example of a properly reported redesignation of a contribution. For more information on the rules for raising money to retire debts, see Chapter 4, pages 20 - 24, in your Campaign Guide. Next week: Filing the Post-General report on time.

New Election Cycle Begins

Mon, 13 Nov 2006 12:50:07 -0500

November 8, 2006, marked the beginning of a new election cycle for all House campaigns and for 2012 Senate campaigns. For reporting purposes, campaigns aggregate receipts and disbursements on an election cycle basis. As a result, all 2006 campaigns must separate--both in their internal records and on their FEC reports--activity that occurred on or after November 8 from activity that occurred prior to that date, regardless of which election it relates to. The campaigns will disclose their separate election-cycle receipts and disbursements on the Post-Election Detailed Summary Page (Instructions) required with the Post-General election report due December 7 (or for campaigns that were not in the general election, with the Year-End report due January 31). Next week: How to handle post-election debt retirement.

I Demand a Recount!

Mon, 6 Nov 2006 08:53:59 -0500

In recent Advisory Opinion 2006-24, the Commission concluded that funds raised by party committees and federal candidates/officeholders for recount expenses are subject to the limits, prohibitions and reporting requirements of the federal campaign finance law, but are not contributions or expenditures. Committees must disclose funds received for a recount as "Other Receipts" and funds spent as "Other Disbursements." Click on the links to see sample itemization for campaigns and for party committees.

Last-Minute Filing Frenzy!

Mon, 30 Oct 2006 14:30:43 -0500

For some committees, last week's Pre-General report was the final FEC filing required before Election Day. Many filers, however, may be required to submit additional notices to disclose last-minute activity. Campaign committees must disclose within 48 hours any contribution of $1,000 or more received between October 19 and November 4. (File FEC Form 6 (Instructions) or our on-line webform.) PACs, party committees and individuals making last-minute independent expenditures must file 24-hour notices. (See our tip from October 2 for details.) Individuals, 527 organizations and other groups making electioneering communications that aggregate $10,000 or more must also file 24-Hour notices to disclose the funds they raised and spent. (File FEC Form 9 (Instructions) or our on-line webforms.)

Comments sought on proposed embezzlement policy.

Mon, 23 Oct 2006 10:07:40 -0500

The Commission requests public comment on a proposed enforcement policy regarding reporting errors that result from a misappropriation of funds. A companion document proposes internal controls that political committees could use to guard against embezzlement and unintentional reporting errors. Under the proposed policy, committees that implement minimum safeguards would not be held liable if a subsequent misappropriation led to reporting errors. Comments on the proposal are due by November 30.

FEC Reports Due October 15 and 20; Public Records Office Open Extended Hours

Wed, 11 Oct 2006 09:01:29 -0500

Reminder: Quarterly Reports are due Sunday, October 15, and Monthly Reports are due Friday, October 20. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends. Starting October 14th and continuing through November 6th, the Public Records Office will have extended hours. The office will be open on weekdays until 7pm, Saturdays, from 10am to 4pm, and Sundays, from 12:00 Noon - 4pm.

24-Hour Reporting of Independent Expenditures in the Last Month of the Election

Mon, 2 Oct 2006 09:00:38 -0500

PACs, party committees and individuals/groups making independent expenditures that aggregate $1,000 or more and are made after 10/18 but more than 24 hours before Election Day must file 24-Hour Notices to disclose the expenditures. PACs and party committees report such expenditures using Schedule E [PDF] [Instructions] [Online Webforms]. Unregistered individuals/groups use FEC Form 5 [Form PDF] [Form 5 Instructions] [Online Webform] to disclose not only the expenditure but also the name, address, occupation and employer of each person who made a contribution in excess of $200 for the purpose of furthering the reported independent expenditure. 11 CFR 109.10(e)(1)(vi). For more information on reporting independent expenditures, see your Campaign Guide or the brochure, Independent Expenditures.

Limit for Campaign-to-Campaign Contributions is $2,000 Per Election

Mon, 25 Sep 2006 09:38:52 -0500

In December 2004, the federal election law was amended to raise the limit on contributions from the authorized committee of one candidate to another to $2,000. The Commission recently updated its regulations to clarify this provision. To properly disclose such contributions, the committee making the donation must itemize it on Schedule B for Line 21 (Other Disbursements), regardless of amount. The recipient committee must itemize it on Schedule A for Line 11(c) (Contributions from Other Political Committees), regardless of amount.

Online Webforms Available for Last Minute FEC Reporting

Mon, 18 Sep 2006 09:37:00 -0500

Need to file a last-minute report? Several FEC forms are also available as online webforms for even faster filing. Forms are available to be used by filers who need to disclose 24- or 48-hour notices of independent expenditures (both registered committees and unregistered individuals/organizations) , 24-hour reports of electioneering communications (for individuals/unregistered organizations), 48-hour notices of contributions received (for campaigns) or 24-hour notices of personal funds expended by a candidate triggering the Millionaires Amendment (for campaigns). For more information on using webforms, visit the FEC's online filing web page.

Party 441a(d) Spending Limits: What they are and how they work

Mon, 11 Sep 2006 10:12:22 -0500

National and state party committees are entitled to make special expenditures on behalf of their general election nominees. These expenditures, called "coordinated party expenditures" or "441a(d) expenditures" are reported only by the party committees but may be coordinated with the campaign. The limits may be lifted altogether in those situations where the millionaires' amendment is invoked (special filings by the party and the candidate are required in those cases). You can find the limits for 2006, along with a brief explanation of how they work, in the Supplement to the Campaign Guide for Political Party Committees.

Redistricting in Texas House Districts Affects Contribution Limits and Reporting

Tue, 5 Sep 2006 10:07:22 -0500

A court recently ordered the redrawing of Texas Congressional Districts 15, 21, 23, 25 and 28. As a result, candidates in these districts are entitled to separate and distinct special general election contribution limits. For guidance on the special contribution limits, see Advisory Opinion 2006-26. Also, if your quarterly-filing PAC or party committee makes or has made contributions to any of the candidates in these races (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them), you may have to file special reports. For more information, see the September 2006 Record.

Special Elections in Ohio Mean Special Reports This Weekend

Tue, 29 Aug 2006 11:18:04 -0500

There are special elections in Ohio's 3rd and 18th Congressional Districts, with pre-primary reports due this weekend. If your quarterly-filing PAC or party committee makes or has made contributions to any of the candidates in these races (or independent expenditures on behalf of or against them), you may have to file these or other additional reports. For more information, see the September 2006 Record or these federal register notices [OH/3] [OH/18].

How to Move to the Head of the Line

Mon, 21 Aug 2006 09:37:06 -0500

The Commission's September 6 workshop is already sold out! Are you stuck on the waiting list again? If you don't want to miss future FEC training sessions, sign up for the Commission's outreach e-mail list and receive automatic notification of upcoming workshops and conferences. While we do list our upcoming training sessions in the Record and online, the folks on our e-mail list are usually the first to know about them, and the first to register. So, send your contact information (name, organization, address, phone, fax and e-mail address) to Conferences@fec.gov and we'll add you to our list. While you're at it, why not check your committee's Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1) to make sure a current e-mail address appears there too? The Commission will use that address to provide even more information to you electronically. So, move to the head of the line - sign-up for e-mail notifications from the FEC!

Now Appearing at Your County Fair: FEC Disclaimers!

Mon, 14 Aug 2006 09:31:18 -0500

If your committee plans to maintain a booth or other presence at your county or State fair, be sure the literature you are distributing contains the appropriate disclaimer statements. Some items, such as bumper stickers, pins and tee-shirts, are exempt. Other items, such as brochures and yard signs, need a printed statement, enclosed in a box, that indicates who has paid for the communication, and if paid for by a party committee or PAC, whether it was authorized by a campaign. For more information, see the brochure Special Notices on Political Ads and Solicitations.

Looking for a Handy Contribution Limits Chart?

Mon, 7 Aug 2006 10:06:32 -0500

Your Campaign Guide contains just such a chart. For a web-based version, bookmark http://www.fec.gov/pages/brochures/contrib.shtml#Chart.

Help a Fellow Treasurer!

Tue, 1 Aug 2006 08:41:36 -0500

Do you have a tip or a tactic that helps you comply with FEC rules and reporting? Please e-mail it to info@fec.gov. We'll publish the best tips on this page!

Hey Big Spender (Or His/Her Opponent)!

Mon, 24 Jul 2006 09:19:07 -0500

If you are running for the House and spend more than $350,000 of your own money, you have triggered the Millionaires' Amendment (the threshold for personal spending in Senate races varies, depending on the State's voting age population) and must fax FEC Form 10 to your opposing candidates and their national party committees. Once triggered, both the candidate who spent the personal funds and the opposing candidates have obligations under the law to file notices (or track the need to file), and the opponents may be eligible for higher contribution and party expenditure limits. For complete guidance on the Millionaires' Amendment, as well as the Senate threshold spending amounts and the necessary reporting forms, visit the FEC's web site at http://www.fec.gov/pages/bcra/rulemakings/millionaire.shtml.

FEC Announces New Policy on PDAs

Mon, 17 Jul 2006 09:01:57 -0500

Don't worry, the FEC isn't trying to regulate your Blackberry or public displays of affection. The PDAs we're talking about are employee payroll deduction authorizations for contributions made to federal PACs. The Commission has just published a policy statement to clarify how PACs raising funds using payroll deduction can satisfy FEC recordkeeping requirements. While PACs may continue to keep the traditional signed authorization forms, other records of the transmittal of funds from employers or collecting agents, such as spreadsheets, computerized records, wire transfer records, or other written or electronic records may also be acceptable.

Need Last-Minute Help with Your FEC Report? Here are some FEC resources available to you.

Mon, 10 Jul 2006 09:03:25 -0500

Every political committee registered with the FEC has a Campaign Finance Analyst who reviews its reports to ensure that they are accurate and complete. That Analyst is also available to answer your reporting questions (including questions about FECFile). For those who prefer to remain anonymous, Public Affairs Specialists are also available to assist filers with reporting questions. (Note: Tricky issues are best referred to your Analyst, since he/she will be reviewing your report.) To reach these FEC staff members, call toll-free 1-800/424-9530 (press 5 to reach your Analyst or 6 to speak to a Specialist). Reporting help is also available on-line at http://www.fec.gov/info/filing.shtml and in our Campaign Guides.

How to Handle Overlapping Reporting Periods

Wed, 5 Jul 2006 09:10:06 -0500

Remember, each FEC report you file picks up where the last one left off. Even though quarterly filers will soon receive a reporting notice that lists the Q2 coverage period as April 1 through June 30, candidates in states that have held primaries since April 1--and other quarterly filers that made contributions/expenditures in connection with those primaries--should adjust the coverage period to account for the pre-primary reports they filed in connection with those elections. There is no need to re-report the activity disclosed on the earlier report.

July Quarterly Not Required for Some Filers

Tue, 27 Jun 2006 08:34:31 -0500

The Commission has waived the July Quarterly report for candidates in Georgia, Kansas, Oklahoma and Tennessee. Those campaigns--and other quarterly filers that have made contributions/expenditures in connection with those primaries--must instead file a Pre-Primary report that covers both the quarterly and pre-primary periods. For coverage dates and filing deadlines, consult our on-line chart of 2006 primary reporting dates.

Campaigns and Party Committees: Find Out What's New for 2006

Mon, 19 Jun 2006 10:42:35 -0500

Make sure you're up-to-date on all the latest campaign finance rules by attending an FEC roundtable workshop. The Commission will host a workshop for campaign committees this Wednesday, June 21, and one for party committees next Wednesday, June 28. Both will be held at the FEC's Washington, DC headquarters and will begin at 9:30 a.m. To register, download a registration form and fax it in today.

Quarterly and Monthly Filers Have Reports Due in July

Mon, 12 Jun 2006 09:00:00 -0500

REMINDER: Quarterly filers have a report due Saturday, July 15, 2006, and monthly filers have a report due on Thursday, July 20, 2006. Please note that the Commission does not have statutory authority to extend filing deadlines, even when they fall on weekends or holidays.

New Coordination Rules Published

Thu, 8 Jun 2006 07:45:30 -0500

The Commission has published final rules on coordinated communications in today's Federal Register. Among other things, the new rules modify the content standard by adjusting the 120-day pre-election time period and create a safe harbor for certain candidate endorsements.

Keep Your Statement of Organization Up-To-Date

Thu, 1 Jun 2006 09:00:00 -0500

Keep all of the information on your committee's Statement of Organization (FEC Form 1) up-to-date. The committee's mailing address and e-mail address are particularly important because the FEC uses those addresses to communicate with the committee. If any information disclosed on the Statement of Organization changes, the committee must file an amendment within 10 days of the change.