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 20463
• Delivery services:
  (For example, FedEx, UPS or DHL)
  Federal Election Commission
  1050 First Street, NE
  Washington, 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.