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      Paper filing

Paper filing Ways to file by paper When filing by paper, a committee can use first-class mail, hand delivery or overnight mail options. Always retain proof of mailing and delivery. Requirements for paper filings FEC forms filed on paper should be typed; printing in ink is also acceptable (but not recommended) as long as the forms are legible. Because filings will be imaged and photocopied several times before being placed on the public record, it is required that committees submit the original report (not a copy) with an original signature. Committees submitting illegible documents will be required to re-file. All reports that are filed on paper with the FEC should be filed on the most recent version of the report or form. In addition, two-sided documents and the use of staples are discouraged. First-class mail or hand delivery If you use first-class mail or hand delivery, reports must be received by close of business on the filing deadline. If the filing deadline falls on a weekend or federal holiday, report must be received by the close of business on the last business day before the filing deadline. Overnight mail "Overnight mail" means registered mail, certified mail, Priority or Priority Express mail (with delivery confirmation) or overnight delivery service (with online tracking)—if using one of these methods, reports must be postmarked by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on the filing deadline, unless the report is a pre-primary or a pre-general report. Pre-primary and pre-general reports Pre-primary and pre-general reports must be received by close of business on the filing deadline if sent by first-class mail or hand delivery. They must be postmarked by 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time three days before the filing deadline if sent by one of the “overnight mail” options. Where to file by paper U.S. Postal Service Federal Election Commission 1050 First Street, NE Washington, DC 20463Delivery services:(For example, FedEx, UPS or DHL)Federal Election Commission1050 First Street, NEWashington, DC 20002 Amending a paper filing Paper filings must be amended on paper and can't be amended electronically. Transition to electronic filing Once a committee reaches certain thresholds of financial activity, they are no longer permitted to file reports on paper and must file all reports and statements electronically.
 Find out more about electronic filing
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          All FEC registration and reporting formsDates and deadlinesElectronic filing overview Need help? Get help from the FEC by phone or email
 Legal citations Regulations 11 CFR 100.19(b)File, filed or filing 11 CFR 104.5(e)Filing dates 11 CFR 105.1Place of filing


This information is not intended to replace the law or to change its meaning, nor does this information create or confer any rights for or on any person or bind the Federal Election Commission or the public. The reader is encouraged also to consult the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971, as amended (52 U.S.C. 30101 et seq.), Commission regulations (Title 11 of the Code of Federal Regulations), Commission advisory opinions and applicable court decisions.


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