The Steps: In Brief

1. Local filers organize with the local election official, usually the city or town clerk, by filing the M101 form. Even candidates without a committee file the M101, but check the "candidate only" box.

2. Local filers open a standard checking account to deposit contributions. Most banks require an EIN from the IRS to open an account.

3. In towns, file the M102 campaign finance form eight days before the election and 30 days afterward. A pre-preliminary report is due if a candidate's name appears on a preliminary ballot. The reporting period dates can be calculated here

4. In cities, local filers file the M102 campaign finance form eight days before the preliminary election, if the filers appear on the preliminary ballot, and eight days before the general election.

5. Year-end reports are filed each Jan. 20 by municipal candidates.