Can you rely on the DOL's calculator for determining earnings on late deferrals even if you don't file under VFC?

The advantage of filing is that it protects you from penalties. If you follow their methods but don't file, then you will pay penalties on the excess if they later audit you and find you should have done more corrections. If you don't file, you're still fairly protected on whatever you did correct; but not protected on what you missed

I have also wondered this myself and I have searched and asked this to many sources but I have never gotten a straight answer. I don't know if you can or not but to be safe I still use the old method until I can find some definite proof that it is okay.