Filers are responsible for submitting required statements or reports on time. Late filing impedes the public’s access to campaign finance and lobbying information. To encourage compliance, the Political Reform Act imposes a liability in the amount of ten dollars ($10) per day until the statement is filed. The liability shall not exceed the amount stated in the late statement or report, or one hundred dollars ($100), which ever is greater. (Gov. Code § 91013)

Filers who have not paid their liability within 60 days of it being assessed will appear on the Outstanding Fines List for Late Filings.

How to Pay

  • Mail a check to: Political Reform Division, Secretary of State, 1500 11th Street, Room 495, Sacramento, CA 95814.
  • By credit card using the link provided in the emailed fine notice.
  • By credit card over the phone between the hours of 8:00-5:00 pm, Monday through Friday, at (916) 653-6224.

Requesting a Waiver

The Secretary of State may consider a request waiving fully (100%) or partially (50%) a liability for a late filing fine if it meets one or more of the following criteria​​​​:

  • Unplanned medical incapacity or death of the filer or the filer’s immediate family.
  • Unavailability of records (ex: natural disaster, fire, theft).
  • Fair Political Practices Commission enforcement actions that have been resolved for the same late filing.
  • First-time filers not using a professional or experienced treasurer at the time of the filing obligation and with a comparatively low level of activity.
  • Other unique circumstances that prevented a timely filing may be considered.

Substantiation may be requested and should be provided if available at the time of request.

For more information and to access the Form PRD-1, review our Guidelines for Waiver of Liability of Late Filing Fines.