Form 5500-EZ 10-return electronic filing threshold
A narrow guide for Solo 401(k) sponsors checking whether the IRS 10-return e-filing threshold changes their Form 5500-EZ filing method.
Summary
For plan years beginning on or after January 1, 2024, a Form 5500-EZ filer generally must file electronically if the filer is required to file at least 10 returns with the IRS during the relevant calendar year. The count aggregates return types, not just Form 5500-EZ. Simple sponsors should verify the filing method before preparing a packet.
The 10-return threshold is a filing-method rule, not the $250,000 asset trigger.
| Effective plan years | Beginning on or after Jan 1, 2024IRS mandatory e-filing guidance. |
|---|---|
| Threshold | At least 10 IRS returnsAggregated across return types the filer is required to file. |
| Electronic path | EFAST2Form 5500-EZ electronic filing is through the DOL EFAST2 system. |
Do not confuse two thresholds
The $250,000 asset threshold helps decide whether an ongoing one-participant plan has a Form 5500-EZ filing requirement. The 10-return threshold helps decide whether a required Form 5500-EZ must be filed electronically.
Example
A solo business owner must file one income tax return, four employment tax returns, six Forms 1099, and one Form 5500-EZ during the relevant calendar year. The aggregate can reach the 10-return e-filing threshold even though there is only one Form 5500-EZ.
Where the product stops
Solo 5500 Desk can flag the e-filing-method question in a self-review packet. It does not file through EFAST2, obtain credentials, request hardship waivers, act as a transmitter, or decide uncertain aggregation questions.
Common questions
Does the 10-return rule mean I must file Form 5500-EZ?
No. It affects the filing method when Form 5500-EZ is required. First decide whether the plan has a Form 5500-EZ filing trigger, then check the electronic filing threshold.
What returns count toward the 10-return threshold?
IRS guidance says to aggregate returns such as information returns, income tax returns, employment tax returns, excise tax returns, and the Form 5500-EZ return itself when determining the threshold.
Can Solo 5500 Desk transmit through EFAST2?
No. It prepares a packet and filing checklist. The user still files through the official IRS/DOL path and manages any EFAST2 credentials.
Check threshold and deadline
Use the free calculator to keep the asset trigger, final-year trigger, deadline, and e-filing method prompt separate.
Open checkerRelated guides
How electronic Form 5500-EZ filing works
When a Solo 401(k) sponsor may need EFAST2, why Login.gov credentials matter, and what packet-only software does not do.
Solo 401(k) $250,000 threshold for Form 5500-EZ
How the IRS $250,000 one-participant plan asset threshold works for Solo 401(k) Form 5500-EZ filing.
Form 5500-EZ records checklist before filing
A pre-filing records checklist for Solo 401(k) sponsors who want a traceable Form 5500-EZ packet instead of guessed values.
Official sources
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