Starting Your Campaign

Step 1.File candidate intention statement

Before beginning your campaign, you must declare the office you are seeking. File FPPC Form 501 with the Office of the City Clerk and a copy with the Public Ethics Commission prior to soliciting or accepting campaign contributions.

Download Form 501(PDF, 314KB)

Step 2.Open a campaign bank account

Candidates must deposit funds into a campaign bank account before spending money on their campaign. Only one account may be used for campaign funds. Spending money out-of-pocket on campaign expenses is a violation of state and local law.

Many banks require a Tax ID# to open a campaign bank account. Visit the IRS website to get an ID.

Apply for tax ID#

Step 3.File a Statement of Economic Interests (Form 700)

All candidates must disclose information about their personal income and assets. File FPPC Form 700 with the Office of the City Clerk.

FPPC Form 700

Step 4.Register your campaign committee

File FPPC Form 410 with the California Secretary of State within 10 days of reaching $2,000 in campaign activity (contributions and expenses).

Download Form 410(PDF, 460KB)

Step 5.Register your campaign committee with the Public Ethics Commission

Register your committee with the Public Ethics Commission by submitting OCRA Form 300 along with a copy of the committee's Statement of Organization (Form 410). You will receive a welcome email with instructions and notifications of upcoming campaign filing deadlines.

Download OCRA Form 300(PDF, 134KB)

Step 6.Get training

If you are a new candidate or treasurer, take advantage of on-demand or live trainings on state and local campaign rules as well as how to file campaign statements online using our free electronic filing system.

Training for new candidates and treasurers

Request NetFile training

Step 7.File Your Campaign Statements and Reports

Enter campaign contributions and expenditures, create draft forms, and file statements and reports online from your NetFile account according to deadlines.

Log into NetFile

Step 8.Learn about the Limited Public Financing Program

Learn about Oakland's Limited Public Financing Program which provides District City Council candidates with some public funds to be used for campaign expenses. See the PEC's LPF Guide for the 2024 election for more information.

Learn more about public financing

Step 9.Keep in touch with the Public Ethics Commission

The Public Ethics Commission staff is here to help you understand your responsibilities before, during, and after the election. Keep your contact information current, read our advisory notices, and contact the Public Ethics Commission or Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) when you need assistance or advice.

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