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Nonlinear consolidation analysis using a finite-element (FE) formulation based on Biot's consolidation theory has been used to study the time-dependent behavior of three-dimensional (3D) frame structures resting on an elastic or elastic perfectly plastic soil satisfying the Drucker-Prager yield criterion. The effect of soil consolidation on the behavior of a 3D frame-raft-soil mass system is considered. The initial stress method with a modified Newton-Raphson iterative scheme has been used for this study. A coupled finite-infinite element modelization is used for the physical representation of the system. Time history of axial forces and bending moments of the mat foundation and the structural elements (beams and columns) are compared with those of time-independent analysis. The results show that the consolidation of soil increases the internal forces in some elements, so that checking the final forces in the frame by time-independent conventional frame analysis may not be sufficient.