Labor Department Publishes 2005 Form M-1 for Multiple Employer Welfare Arrangements - Online Filing Available

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.

Washington, DC - The U.S. Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security Administration (EBSA) will publish in the December 9, 2005, Federal Register the 2005 Form M-1 annual report for multiple employer welfare arrangements (MEWAs). Plan administrators may use EBSA's online filing system to expedite processing of the form.

MEWAs are arrangements that offer medical benefits to the employees of two or more employers or to their beneficiaries. The annual filing date for the 2005 Form M-1 is March 1, 2006. In addition, administrators can request an automatic 60-day extension to May 1, 2006. The 2005 form has few changes from the previous year.

The online filing system is available on EBSA's Web site. It allows filers to complete the form and submit it at no cost. The online form can be completed in multiple sessions and can be printed for the filer's records. The Web site includes a user manual, frequently asked questions and a link to submit questions electronically. Online filing is an example of President Bush's E-Government initiative to use technology to make it easier for citizens and businesses to interact with the government.

To use the online filing process, go to www.askebsa.dol.gov/mewa/. Technical assistance for the online filing system is also available by calling 202.693.8600. Information about the Form M-1 and how to fill it out is available on the Web site or by calling 202.693.8360. Paper copies of the form may be obtained by calling EBSA's toll free number at 1.866.444.EBSA (3272) or visiting the Web site at www.dol.gov/ebsa and clicking on Forms/Doc Requests.

U.S. Department of Labor news releases are accessible on the Department's Newsroom page. The information in this news release will be made available in alternate format upon request (large print, Braille, audio tape or disc) from the COAST office. Please specify which news release when placing your request at 202.693.7765 or TTY 202.693.7755. The U.S. Department of Labor is committed to providing America's employers and employees with easy access to understandable information on how to comply with its laws and regulations. For more information, please visit the Department's Compliance Assistance page.

Archived News Release — Caution: Information may be out of date.