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Compliance December 17, 2008
EBSA Releases 2008 M-1 Form for MEWAs
December 17, 2008 (PLANSPONSOR.com) - The U.S.
Department of Labor's Employee Benefits Security
Administration (EBSA) on Wednesday announced the availability
of the 2008 Form M-1 annual report for multiple employer
welfare arrangements (MEWAs).
Reported by Fred Schneyer
An EBSA news release said plan administrators may use EBSA’s online filing system to expedite processing of the form. MEWAs generally are arrangements that offer medical benefits to the employees of two or more employers or to their beneficiaries.
According to EBSA, the annual filing date for the 2008 Form M-1 is March 2, 2009, but administrators can request an automatic 60-day extension to May 1, 2009. The 2008 form is virtually identical to last year’s form.
The EBSA announcement said the online site allows a filer to complete the form in multiple sessions, print a copy for his or her records, and submit it at no cost. The Web site includes a user manual, frequently asked questions, and a link to submit questions electronically.
Technical assistance for the online filing system is
available by calling 202-693-8600. Information about
the Form M-1 and how to fill it out is available on the Web
site or by calling 202-693-8360.
Paper copies of the form are available at
www.dol.gov/ebsa
(click on Forms and Filing) or by calling EBSA toll-free at
866-444-3272. The MEWA site is at
www.askebsa.dol.gov/mewa
.