Form 5500 filing options
EFAST2 IFILE vs. Form 5500 Software
IFILE is the Department of Labor’s web-based filing option. Dedicated desktop software can offer a different preparation workflow. Compare the two before choosing how you want to work.
| Workflow | EFAST2 IFILE | LawFirmSoftware.com Form 5500 Software |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Government web filing option; no software purchase from LawFirmSoftware.com. | $399 current Windows edition. |
| Where you work | Browser-based EFAST2/IFILE interface. | Windows desktop preparation application. |
| Validation | IFILE includes validation for errors and warnings before submission. | Includes preparation-time validation checks for supported forms and schedules. |
| Electronic filing | Validate, sign and submit through EFAST2. | Supports an EFAST2 filing-data workflow; confirm the current edition’s filing/export method before purchase. |
| Files / data | Work is handled through the EFAST2 filing environment; IFILE also supports XML import/export. | Desktop plan files are saved locally for the application workflow. |
| Best fit to evaluate | Users comfortable preparing and submitting directly through the government web interface. | Preparers who want a dedicated Windows preparation workflow and local working files. |
Official source: EFAST2 IFILE User Guide and DOL EFAST2 FAQs.
Want a dedicated Windows preparation workflow?
Review supported Form 5500/5500-SF preparation, schedules, validation and filing-data features before purchasing.
View Form 5500 Software — $399