November 15th - 5500 extension

[Guest M.L. Martin]

Just wondering what others know regarding the Nov. 15th extension for 5500's normally due with extension on 10/15.

Are all plans automatically eligible for this extension regardless of where they are located? I spoke with a representative at the PWBA and she said "it applies to all plans and, considering the circumstances, proof won't be required so long as the return is filed by 11/15.... however, every effort should be made to file as soon as possible..."

The response wasn't exactly definite, has anyone else inquired with the PWBA directly and received a different response?

[AndyH]

There's a Q&A on the PWBA website. I don't think it says anything like what you've quoted them as saying, unless you're directly affected. Check it out and draw your own conclusion. Mine is that they're playing hardball.

http://askpwba.dol.gov/091101faq.html#section4

[stephen]

We have a couple of clients taking advantage of the 30 day extension.

One is in the DC area and was affected by the September 11 Tragedy and the other had asset statements delayed by the attack.

For everyone else we are filing on time.

[Kristina]

I agree with Stephen. Meet Monday's deadline!

While the IRS extension seems to be across the board, our friends at the PWBA have attached a string. I would not depend on that extension unless you can prove 9/11 was a factor.

The PWBA is in the interesting position of just finishing the processing of the 1999 forms. It seems in late August, they had not started their processing of the 2000 forms. (Yes, all those forms you have already filed are sitting in a warehouse. Generating heat and transferring the glue from those sticky notes onto the forms so processing can be further delayed. Yea, I know, you didn't put sticky notes on them, but are you sure your client didn't?) It would seem that since they have not started looking at them yet, why would they care that you file by 11/15th or not. They are the PWBA, they can do what they want.

[Guest M.L. Martin]

Thank you all! Your responses are very helpful!!

We have been diligently working away but it appears as though it is going to be a long weekend anyways....