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E-File Campaign Finance Statements

 

What software should I use to electronically file statements?

Campaign finance statements can be filed electronically using the San Francisco Electronic Disclosure System (SFEDS), otherwise known as Netfile, free of charge. SFEDS is a web-based, data entry filing system that allows candidates and campaign committees to submit disclosure reports mandated by California's Political Reform Act to the Electronic Filing System.  

How do I establish an electronic filing account?

Before establishing an electronic filing account, please review the May 17, 2013 notice regarding changes to electronic filing requirements.  

  1. Create a Netfile User Account

    The “Netfile User Account” is an individual specific account for each committee officer that can be used to access multiple committee accounts. Create this account before requesting a committee account.  (Account Instructions)

  2. Signature Verification Card (Form SFEC-112a)

    This form is obtained from within your Netfile User Account and is required to sign electronic campaign finance statements. All committee officers that sign statements must complete this form.

  3. Committee Account Registration Form (Form SFEC-112b)


    The committee account is used to file electronic statements and is controlled by a committee officer with a “Netfile User Account.”  File this form to create a new committee account to file electronic statements or to notify the Commission that a committee that is not required to file electronically will volunteer to file electronic statements.

  4. Link the Committee Account to your Netfile User Account

    This process gives a Netfile User access to a Committee Account. (Linking Instructions)

Where do I login?

Proceed to the login page to access SFEDS.

Are there alternative software solutions to SFEDS?

Yes, the Ethics Commission accepts filings created using software certified by the Secretary of State that generate filings in CAL 2.01 format. The Secretary of State maintains a list of certified third-party vendors. The Ethics Commission will not endorse any of the third-party vendors. Filers must research and select third-party vendors independently. Filers using third-party software must still create a Netfile User Account and a Committee Account.

How do I submit filings from a third-party vendor?

Electronic filings must be submitted in CAL 2.01 format. Filers using filing software from third-party vendors must still obtain a committee account from the Ethics Commission and submit CAL documents into their account. The Ethics Commission will not accept CAL documents submitted via e-mail. By submitting a CAL filing directly into SFEDS, committees using third-party vendors will receive confirmation from the system that the filing is accepted. Please see the Users Guide for information about how to submit third-party filings.

Which forms can I file electronically?

SFEDS can file FPPC Form 450, 460, 461, 465, 470, 496 and 497 electronically. 

I need to report a type of transaction that is not directly supported by the SFEDS system. What steps should I take to report the transaction?

Please contact the Ethics Commission at 415-252-3100.  Staff is available to work with filers to report unique transactions that are not supported within the filer system's user interface.

How can I learn more about how to use SFEDS?

The Ethics Commission staff is available during our office hours to assist you with your filing requirements.

  • SFEDS Orientation:  You will receive a login and password and an introduction to the system.
  • SFEDS Clinic:  Bring in your campaign records and learn to input your data into the SFEDS system. 

Contact the Ethics Commission to schedule an appointment for a SFEDS Orientation or a Tutoring Session.

The users guide is also an excellent resource that includes step-by-step instructions on how to use the system. To obtain the users guide, enter your committee account and choose "User Guide" from the "Help & Support" menu.

What are the system requirements?