IRS Seeks Comments on Prototype SEP and SIMPLE IRA Plan Approval Information Collection

Timeline of the Current Notice

The sequence of events for this information collection notice began on October 6, 2026, when Ronald J. Durbala, Tax Analyst, dated the document. It was filed on October 7, 2026, and officially published in the Federal Register on October 8, 2026.

The notice invites public input under the Paperwork Reduction Act of 1995. Written comments and recommendations must be received on or before December 7, 2026, to ensure consideration. This follows the standard process for extending an existing OMB-approved collection before seeking renewed approval.

The chronology reflects routine administrative steps: internal dating, filing, public publication, and a 60-day comment window that will inform the subsequent OMB review.

Purpose and Use of Form 5306-A

Form 5306-A is used by sponsors of prototype Simplified Employee Pension (SEP) plans and Savings Incentive Match Plans for Employees (SIMPLE IRA) to request IRS approval of their prototype plan documents. The information submitted allows the IRS to evaluate whether these plans meet the qualification requirements under Internal Revenue Code sections 408(k) and 408(p).

Upon review, the IRS issues an opinion letter confirming that the prototype plan satisfies applicable rules. This process primarily affects business or other for-profit organizations that sponsor such plans.

The current actions specify that there are no changes being made to the forms at this time. The review is an extension of a currently approved collection under OMB Number 1545-0199.

Estimated Burden and Public Input

The IRS estimates that six respondents will each require an average of 19 hours and 22 minutes to complete the collection, resulting in a total annual burden of 116 hours. Comments are specifically invited on whether the collection is necessary, the accuracy of the burden estimate, ways to improve the information's quality and clarity, methods to minimize respondent burden including through automation, and any related capital or operational costs.

All comments will be summarized, may be included in the OMB approval request, and will become a matter of public record. Individuals should avoid including confidential or sensitive personal information in their submissions.

Comments can be sent to Andrés Garcia at the Internal Revenue Service or by email, referencing OMB Number 1545-0199 in the subject line. Additional details are available from Ronald J. Durbala.

Considering Private Tax Resolution Needs

While this notice addresses administrative approval of retirement plan prototypes rather than individual or business tax debts, readers who have separate questions about resolving existing IRS or state tax liabilities may wish to explore their options. Republic Tax Relief offers a free, no-obligation initial consultation to evaluate suitability, scope, fees, and availability of private tax-resolution services for communicating with the IRS.

The firm cannot determine eligibility for this prototype plan approval process or any other IRS program, and hiring a representative is not required to participate in the public comment opportunity.