Solo 5500 Desk vs IFILE / paper filing alone
IFILE is the DOL's free browser-based filer. Paper filing is also free for sponsors below the 10-return threshold. Solo 5500 Desk costs $49 because it adds the eligibility gate (asset threshold + final-year + e-filing trigger), source-number reconciliation, and a reusable annual passport. If you already understand the form and keep clean records, IFILE or paper alone works.
Decision rule
Already comfortable with the form? Use IFILE/paper. Want guided checks + passport? Solo 5500 Desk.
| Criterion | Solo 5500 Desk | IFILE / paper filing alone |
|---|---|---|
| Software fee | $49 per plan year | $0 (IFILE) / $0 (paper) |
| Login.gov / EFAST2 PIN required | No (packet only) | Yes (IFILE) |
| Eligibility gate before form prep | Yes (10 hard-stop checks) | No |
| Beginning-asset reconciliation prompt | Yes | No |
| Annual passport for next year | Yes (PDF) | No |
| Filing transmission | No (you transmit via IFILE or mail) | Yes (IFILE submits to EFAST2) |
| Time investment (year 1) | ~10 minutes | ~30-60 minutes (read instructions + IFILE setup) |
| Time investment (year 2+) | ~6 minutes (passport prefilled) | ~20-30 minutes |
Common questions
Can I just use IFILE for free?
Yes. IFILE is the official free DOL filer. Solo 5500 Desk does not file — it prepares a packet you transcribe into IFILE or onto paper.
Do I still need IFILE if I use Solo 5500 Desk?
Only if you must file electronically (10-return threshold met). Otherwise paper filing remains an option below the threshold.
Is the $49 worth it vs free?
It is worth it if you value the scope check (does this plan even need to file?), the source-number reconciliation prompts, and a reusable annual passport. Otherwise, IFILE alone is fine.