Form 8-K: The filing requirements, deadlines, and more

Published: Aug. 18, 2020, 1 p.m.

Form 8-K is a broad SEC form used to share specified events with shareholders. But it’s not always clear when it’s required. That’s why in this episode, Heather Horn is joined by Wayne Carnall to discuss the requirements for this type of filing.  

Topics include:

  • 0:56 - Overview. Do all significant events that take place between a quarterly and annual filing require a Form 8-K? Wayne shares examples of common events requiring Form 8-K and the required timing.
  • 10:23 - COVID-19. Some companies have recorded an impairment due to the pandemic—which is one of the events that could require an 8-K. Wayne and Heather discuss the regulation for this type of event.
  • 16:02 - Acquired businesses and pro forma information. The SEC recently amended its rules related to the financial statements of an acquired business and pro forma information. Wayne highlights how these rules interact with the Form 8-K regulations.  
  • 23:16 - Error corrections and auditor changes. Wayne and Heather give tips for navigating 8-K filings to report a correction of an error, and the considerations when there has been a change in an auditor.  

Wayne Carnall is a former Chief Accountant of the Division of Corporation Finance at the SEC. Wayne has broad and extensive financial reporting and regulatory experience involving domestic and international companies in a wide range of industries. Having served in that role during the financial crisis, Wayne worked with other senior officials at the SEC and other agencies and organizations to address and resolve financial reporting matters of unprecedented complexity in a dynamic political environment. 

Heather Horn is PwC’s National office thought leader, responsible for developing our communications strategy and conveying firm positions on accounting and financial reporting matters. She is the engaging host of PwC’s accounting and reporting weekly podcast and quarterly webcast series, as well as periodic webcasts for the power and utilities industry. With over 25 years of experience, Heather’s accounting and auditing expertise includes financial instruments and rate-regulated accounting.