This page provides answers to frequently asked questions. If you don't find an answer to your question here, please contact the FEC's Information Division, toll free at 800-424-9530 or by e-mail at info@fec.gov.
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The term "political action committee" (PAC) refers to two distinct types of political committees registered with the FEC: separate segregated funds (SSFs) and nonconnected committees. Basically, SSFs are political committees established and administered by corporations, labor unions, membership organizations or trade associations. These committees can only solicit contributions from individuals associated with connected or sponsoring organization. By contrast, nonconnected committees--as their name suggests--are not sponsored by or connected to any of the aforementioned entities and are free to solicit contributions from the general public. For additional information, consult our Separate Segregated Funds and Nonconnected Committees fact sheet.
Corporate/Trade/Labor PACs--aka separate segregated funds (SSFs)--must register upon formation by filing FEC Form 1 [PDF], Statement of Organization. Please note that the name of committee must include the full name of the connected (sponsoring) organization. Such SSFs should download the Campaign Guide for Corporations and Labor Organizations [PDF] for more information on the laws that apply to them.
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Download our SSF Registration Toolkit The complete package of forms and other information necessary to register an SSF with the FEC. |
Nonconnected PACs must register by filing FEC Form 1 [PDF], Statement of Organization within 10 days after raising or spending in excess of $1,000 in connection with federal elections. Such PACs should download the Campaign Guide for Nonconnected Committees [PDF] for more information on the laws that apply to them.
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Download our Nonconnected PAC Registration Toolkit The complete package of forms and other information necessary to register a committee with the FEC. |
After registering with the FEC, PACs must file regular reports disclosing their receipts and disbursements. PACs have the option to file these reports quarterly or monthly, and may change their filing frequency as often as once a year. PACs that choose to file quarterly may be required to file certain pre- and post-election reports, depending on their activity. Please consult our reporting page for more information.
