Union officials who also serve as benefit fund trustees should note that the Form 5500 for plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2009 requires an electronic signature. This electronic signature is not the same as the one that is used for signing the Department of Labor Form LM-2.
The good news is that there is no cost to apply for this e-signature. Additionally, you can apply for the e-signature on any computer, unlike the LM-2 electronic signature, and once a credential is assigned, you can use this signature for multiple funds. Confirmation of your signature is almost instantaneous, so you don’t have to wonder if your application was accepted.
To apply for the Form 5500 e-signature credential, please go to www.efast.dol.gov and follow the instructions. The application process takes less than five minutes.
If we can be of any assistance, please do not hesitate to contact us.
By Jim Giemzik, CPA, Partner