Understand EFAST2 for 550 return e-filing
Learn about the Department of Labor's EFAST2 system, including user roles, credentials, and acknowledgment identifiers for filing Form 5500 returns.
The Department of Labor (DOL) requires you to e-file 5500 returns through its EFAST2 system.
All signers must obtain EFAST2 electronic credentials (user ID and PIN) to sign or submit Forms 5500 or 5500-SF.
EFAST2 roles and user types
Before you register as an EFAST2 user, determine which filing tasks you need to perform, such as Filing Author, Signer, or Transmitter. This ensures you get the proper credentials. Your user type in EFAST2 depends on the system functions you need and your signature authority.
- Filing Author: Completes and submits Form 5500/5500-SF/5500-EZ and schedules. Can't sign unless also registered as a Filing Signer. You don't need this role if you use a third-party application.
- Filing Signer: Electronically signs Form 5500/5500-SF/5500-EZ. This includes Plan Administrators, Sponsors, and authorized service providers. Can't perform other filing functions alone.
- Schedule Author: Completes schedules for Form 5500/5500-SF/5500-EZ. Must export schedules for Filing Author to import. Can't initiate, sign, or submit filings.
AckID
An Acknowledgment ID (AckID) is a unique identifier that the system generates when it successfully processes your submission. If you need to update a filing you made through EFAST2, include the original AckID.
