E-Filing Form 8955-SSA
Key Differences from Form 5500
- The 8955-SSA does not require the 5500 to be locked or ready to file.
- Unlike the 5500, you do not need to lock the filing for the user to sign.
- DOL credentials are not required for the 8955-SSA.
Requirements Before E-Filing
Form Status
- All 8955-SSA forms in the batch must show “OK” for edit checks.
Portal User Permissions
- In the Edit Portal User screen, ensure “Allow 8955-SSA e-file” is set to Yes.
Granting Permissions
- Go to Work with Portal Users and Signers.
- Confirm Allow 8955-SSA e-file is marked Yes for the client.
Client E-Filing Process
Once permissions are set and the form status is OK, the client can e-file by:
- Logging into the portal.
- Selecting E-File 8955-SSA.
- Completing these steps:
- Click Print 8955-SSA.
- Print and review the paper copy.
- Click E-File 8955-SSA to submit to the IRS.
After the portal user has clicked on "E-File 8955-SSA," he/she will be directed to the main, portal "Welcome" screen and see the following message displayed in yellow:
What Happens After E-Filing Form 8955-SSA
From the ftwilliam.com User Perspective
- When the portal user clicks “E-File 8955-SSA”, the system creates a batch containing the plan.
- This batch appears on the “8955-SSA Batches – [YEAR]” screen with the status:
- Locked
- Pending
- These statuses indicate the batch has been sent to ftwilliam.com for fulfillment.
Billing Information
- Cost per Filing: $7.95 for each 8955-SSA e-filed by a portal user.
- No Batch Fee: These filings are not subject to the $16.07 batch fee.
- Fee Update: The previous $7.46 fee increased to $7.95 on 10/01/2025.
