Labor Department Releases The Efast-1 Application For Electronic Filing Of Form 5500 Series

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.

The U. S. Department of Labor's Pension and Welfare Benefits Administration (PWBA) today released the EFAST-1 application form and instructions for electronic filers of the Form 5500 Series under the ERISA Filing Acceptance System (EFAST). Starting with the 1999 Form 5500 and 5500-EZ, filers interested in electronically filing the annual return/report forms must submit the Form EFAST-1.

The EFAST-1 application form must be used by individuals who sign the Form 5500 or Form 5500EZ to apply for an electronic signature and by persons who apply for codes to be EFAST transmitters or software developers.

Copies of the EFAST-1 application form may be downloaded from PWBA's EFAST website at www.efast.dol.gov under the "What's New" section. Downloaded copies can be filled in using a computer or by hand and mailed to the PWBA address listed on the EFAST website. The website also contains an up-to-date list of software developers who can provide approved computer software for completing the "machine print" versions of the 1999 Form 5500 and Form 5500-EZ.

PWBA also will shortly publish a Federal Register Notice concerning interim approval by the Office of Management and Budget of Form EFAST-1 under the Paperwork Reduction Act.

For information about the Form 5500, electronic filing and processing of the forms, contact the EFAST Help Desk at 202/219-8770.

U.S. Department of Labor news releases are accessible on the Internet. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the Central Office for Assistive Services and Technology. Please specify which news release when placing your request. Call 202.693.7773 or TTY 202.693.7775.

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.