The deadline for donations and expenditure returns for independent candidates is approaching. The cut-off date is thirty five days after the election results were called, so make sure to return the forms by 10^th June.

If applicable, the election agent must prepare the election expenses return. If there is no election agent, candidates must prepare their own return. It must include:

• A statement of all payments made, plus invoices or receipts for items over £20
• Details and a declaration of value for all notional expenditure
• Details of all donations as listed in Part C, Chapter 4, paragraphs 4.13-14 of the Guidance for Candidates and Agents: The 2010 UK Parliamentary General Elections in Great Britain
• Details of any unpaid or disputed invoices

Go to the electoral commission website to find downloadable forms for expenditure and donation returns. Fill in the ‘long campaign’ form for the period from 1 January 2010 to the dissolution of Parliament on Monday 12^th April and the ‘short campaign’ form for the period from dissolution of Parliament to polling day. 

If the candidate has an agent, both short and long campaign returns must be submitted with ‘a declaration by election agent as to election expenses’. A ‘declaration by candidate as to election expenses,’ should then be returned within seven working days of the agent submitting their form and declaration.

All forms require you to provide as much information as possible. If anyone is experiencing problems with their forms they should contact the Electoral Commission as soon as possible. The Electoral Commission’s party and election hotline is: 020 72710616.

Go to the Candidate Guidance leaflet on the Electoral Commission’s website for advice and further information.