EFAST2 Statuses

[justbsur]

If a plan sponsor has attempted to file a Form 5500 on EFAST2 via an approved 3rd party vendor software package, and they receive the status of "Filing Stopped", does that mean they are considered to have filed before the deadline? Their forms are showing up on the search function under EFAST2, and, according to the chart on FAQ#39, it indicates that "Processing Stopped" (assume that is the same as "Filing Stopped"?), it is considered a filing.

When I called the EFAST2 hotline, they told me that this client had to amend by the original filing deadline or the DOL would consider them missing the deadline. This client does not want to file a Form 5558. So we now need to work with them to amend within the next few days!

Has anyone else run into this situation? Did you get the same answer from the hotline?

[Dinosaur]

If a plan sponsor has attempted to file a Form 5500 on EFAST2 via an approved 3rd party vendor software package, and they receive the status of "Filing Stopped", does that mean they are considered to have filed before the deadline? Their forms are showing up on the search function under EFAST2, and, according to the chart on FAQ#39, it indicates that "Processing Stopped" (assume that is the same as "Filing Stopped"?), it is considered a filing.

When I called the EFAST2 hotline, they told me that this client had to amend by the original filing deadline or the DOL would consider them missing the deadline. This client does not want to file a Form 5558. So we now need to work with them to amend within the next few days!

Has anyone else run into this situation? Did you get the same answer from the hotline?

This is what I found:

Filing_Stopped status indicates EFAST2 could read the annual return/report but could not fully check the filing for errors because crucial information was not provided by the filer. The annual return/report must be corrected and resubmitted in its entirety as an amended filing.

[GMK]

This client does not want to file a Form 5558.

If your 5500 isn't in by now, file the 5558. It's free insurance against the train wreck/perfect storm coming this weekend.

[justbsur]

Thanks for the responses.

I saw the same definition for Filing stopped status - but the question is - do they have to file the amended return by 8/2? Thanks again!

[K2retire]

Yes they must fix it by the filing deadline -- unless they file an extension.

[justbsur]

Soooo...I called the EFAST2 hotline again, and got a different answer!! This person told me that they are considered filed, and they need to amend, but not by the original filing deadline. This is actually consistent with the FAQ's, so I'm inclined to believe her, but I'm concerned with the fact that I'm receiving conflicting answers.