Section 570.10  Definitions

 

"Electronic document" means data transmitted to the Secretary of State through an electronic medium including, but not limited to, disks, tapes, and the internet.

 

"Facsimile document" means a paper document transmitted to the Secretary of State via facsimile, the signature on which is prima facie evidence for all purposes that the document was signed by the person whose signature appears on the facsimile. [15 ILCS 305/15]

 

"Internet" means a nonproprietary, public computer network.

 

Section 570.20  Accepted Electronic and Facsimile Documents

 

Each department within the Office of the Secretary of State has the authority to determine which of its documents may be filed electronically (and the appropriate electronic medium) or by facsimile.

 

Section 570.30  Where to Send Electronic or Facsimile Filings

 

Electronic and facsimile documents shall be transmitted to the appropriate department within the Office of the Secretary of State.

 

Section 570.40  Duties of Electronic and Facsimile Filers

 

Electronic and facsimile filers shall ensure that documents are filed in sufficient time to meet statutory deadlines.  The receipt date of the electronic or facsimile transmission will constitute the receipt date of the document if it is acknowledged as accepted by the Secretary of State.

 

Section 570.50  Payment of Fees

 

The filer is responsible for the payment of any fees to the Secretary of State in relation to the electronic or facsimile document. A document required to be accompanied by a fee may not be deemed accepted or filed until payment is received.

 

Section 570.55  Acceptable Electronic Payment

 

The following electronic payment methods may be used for electronic or facsimile documents requiring the attachment of fees:

 

a)         Automated Clearing House;

 

b)         Payment Cards; or

 

c)         Money Wire.

 

Section 570.60  Retention of Records

 

Persons who file documents with the Secretary of State via facsimile or electronically shall maintain paper or electronic records for the time periods required by the statute under which the document is filed.