Ellen Corley Research Database
Here is the FEC registration process for a federal candidate (such as for U.S. House of Representatives, Illinois 5th Congressional District), presented as a step-by-step table. This covers the key federal campaign finance requirements under FEC rules. Note: State ballot access and election requirements (e.g., petitions, filing fees with Illinois State Board of Elections) are separate and not covered by the FEC.
| Step | Description | Key Requirements / Thresholds | Forms Involved | Deadline / Timing | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Determine if you are considered a "candidate" under FEC rules | You become a federal candidate when you raise more than $5,000 in contributions or make more than $5,000 in expenditures to support your election to federal office (U.S. House, Senate, or President). This includes funds raised/spent testing the waters for candidacy. Activities like exploratory efforts may not trigger until the threshold is crossed. | None required until threshold met | Trigger occurs when $5,000+ threshold is exceeded | "Testing the waters" activities (e.g., polling, travel) can be done pre-candidacy without counting toward the threshold if funds are properly handled and reported later if candidacy is declared. Once threshold met, prior testing-the-waters funds count as contributions/expenditures. |
| 2 | File Statement of Candidacy to declare candidacy and designate principal campaign committee | - Provide candidate's full name, address, party affiliation, office sought (e.g., U.S. House, Illinois District 5), election year. - Designate principal campaign committee (can be new or redesignated existing one). - Candidate must sign the form (certifying accuracy under penalty of law). - If electronic filing, must use Form 2 (paper filers can use Form 2 or letter with equivalent info). |
FEC Form 2 (Statement of Candidacy) | Within 15 days after becoming a candidate (i.e., after exceeding $5,000 threshold) | This form officially makes you a candidate. The FEC assigns a candidate ID number if new. If redesignating an existing committee, note it on Form 2. False information can lead to penalties under 52 U.S.C. §30109. |
| 3 | Principal campaign committee registers with the FEC | - Committee provides name, address, treasurer info, custodian of records, bank info. - Must have a treasurer (can be candidate, but recommended to have separate). - Committee becomes responsible for receiving contributions, making expenditures, and filing all reports. |
FEC Form 1 (Statement of Organization) | Within 10 days after designation by the candidate (via Form 2) | Filed by the committee (not the candidate directly). If redesignating an existing committee, only amend Form 1 if needed (e.g., updated info). Committee must maintain records and comply with all ongoing reporting. |
| 4 | Begin ongoing compliance (post-registration) | - Open campaign bank account (deposits must go through committee). - Track all contributions/expenditures. - File required reports (e.g., quarterly reports, pre/post-election reports, 48-hour notices for large contributions). - Appoint treasurer who signs reports. - Follow contribution limits, prohibitions (e.g., no corporate/union contributions). |
Various (e.g., FEC Form 3 series for receipts/disbursements) | Ongoing; first report typically covers activity from candidacy date | Registration is the starting point—failure to file timely/accurate reports can result in fines or enforcement. Consult FEC Campaign Guide for Congressional Candidates for full details. Electronic filing required if raising/spending over certain thresholds. |
This process applies nationwide for congressional candidates. For Illinois 5th District specifics, the FEC handles federal finance rules only—check the Illinois State Board of Elections for ballot placement requirements (e.g., signatures, filing period). Always verify the latest forms and guidance directly on fec.gov or contact the FEC (1-800-424-9530), as rules can be updated. Good luck with your campaign!