Campaign Finance Compliance Guide
Last Updated: April 27, 2025
Important Disclaimer
This guide provides general information about campaign finance compliance but is not legal advice. Campaign finance laws vary by jurisdiction and change frequently. We strongly recommend consulting with a qualified attorney or compliance professional for specific guidance.
Registration Requirements
Federal campaigns must register with the Federal Election Commission (FEC) within 15 days of becoming a candidate or when contributions or expenditures exceed $5,000.
- File FEC Form 1 (Statement of Organization)
- Designate a campaign treasurer
- Establish a campaign bank account
- Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS
Contribution Limits (2023-2024 Cycle)
| Donor Type | To Candidate Committee | To National Party Committee | To PAC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Individual | $3,300 per election | $41,300 per year | $5,000 per year |
| Candidate Committee | $2,000 per election | Unlimited | $5,000 per year |
| PAC (multicandidate) | $5,000 per election | $15,000 per year | $5,000 per year |
Note: "Per election" means separate limits for primaries, general elections, and special elections.
Reporting Requirements
Federal campaigns must file regular reports with the FEC disclosing contributions and expenditures:
- Quarterly reports in non-election years
- Quarterly reports plus pre-election and post-election reports in election years
- 48-hour notices for contributions of $1,000 or more received within 20 days of an election
- 24-hour notices for independent expenditures of $10,000 or more
Recordkeeping
Campaigns must maintain records of all contributions and expenditures for at least three years from the date of filing the report.
- For contributions over $50: Record contributor name and address
- For contributions over $200: Also record occupation and employer
- For all expenditures: Keep receipts, invoices, and canceled checks
Prohibited Sources
Federal campaigns cannot accept contributions from:
- Corporations or labor organizations (directly from their treasuries)
- Foreign nationals
- Federal government contractors
- Contributions made in the name of another person
- Cash contributions exceeding $100
Need Compliance Assistance?
If you have specific questions about campaign finance compliance, our team is here to help. Contact us at [email protected] or schedule a consultation with our compliance experts.