Pierce County wants to make it as easy as possible for prospective candidates to file paperwork to run for office, Elections Manager Mike Rooney says.

So beginning today – for the first time in Pierce County – candidates can file for election online. And the “doors” are open 24 hours a day during filing week.

All it takes is a computer, Internet access, the proper information at hand and a Visa or MasterCard, Rooney said.

You’ll find a link to online filing at the Pierce County elections site beginning this morning. The service will be available until 4 p.m. Friday.

You’ll need to be a registered voter in the district or jurisdiction for which you’re filing; have a valid Visa or MasterCard with which to pay the fee; and have an e-mail address.

Since you enter your own data, you’ll know it’s what you want, Rooney said. You’ll get an e-mail if someone files against you. And you’ll be able to submit a voters’ pamphlet statement and photograph online.

Other agencies in Washington, including the state already have online filing, Rooney said.