Most people think of April 15 as the deadline for filing their income taxes, however, there is another important filing deadline that takes place on that date as well. Federal PACs that file quarterly reports must submit an April quarterly report no later than April 15, 2012 (monthly filers must submit their report no later than April 20). The quarterly report should reflect all activity between January 1 and March 31, 2012. Unlike the IRS, the Federal Election Commission (FEC) does not extend filing deadlines when the filing date falls on a weekend or holiday. Because of this, unless you file electronically or deliver your report using an overnight delivery service, your PAC report must be received by the FEC no later than the close of business on the last business day before the deadline. Electronic reports are considered timely if they are filed by 11:59 p.m. (in Washington DC) on the filing date. If your paper report has been provided to an overnight delivery service on or before the filing date (for delivery on the next business day), the report will also be considered filed on-time. Please note that once you file electronically, you do not have the option of switching to the paper filing system.

To receive reminders from the FEC about reporting deadlines, PAC treasurers should be sure to include an email address on the PAC's Statement of Organization as the FEC no longer mails notices.

Minnesota PAC reports will be due in June, watch Inside the Minnesota Capitol for further updates.