As an organization committed to philanthropy, your intention and effort transform lives and build communities. However, just as crucial to your mission is embracing the administrative reality of operating a nonprofit: compliance with IRS regulations. A key element of this process centers around the IRS Form 990.
What is IRS Form 990?
As a nonprofit leader, the IRS Form 990 is one of the first terms you should familiarize yourself with. It's essentially an annual information return that certain federally tax-exempt organizations must file. This form provides the IRS with an overview of the organization's activities, governance, and detailed financial information. It also allows the public to evaluate how the organization is performing its exempt purpose.
Who Must File IRS Form 990?
Most tax-exempt organizations, with some exceptions such as churches and state institutions, are required to file some variants of Form 990. The specific form - be it Form 990, Form 990-EZ, or Form 990-N - is dependent upon your organization's gross receipts and total assets.
When is IRS Form 990 Due?
The submission deadline for Form 990 revolves around your organization's fiscal calendar. More specifically, it's due 4.5 months after the end of your fiscal year, falling on the 15th day of that respective month. In other words, if your fiscal year wraps up on December 31, 2023, you'll need to submit your Form 990 latest by May 15, 2024.
Penalties for Noncompliance
Failure to file Form 990 by the due date can result in penalties of $20 to $100 for each day the return is late, up to a maximum of $50,000. Additionally, your organization’s tax-exempt status may be automatically revoked if it fails to file Form 990 for three consecutive years.
What Information is Required on IRS Form 990?
Filing IRS Form 990 requires a thorough knowledge of your organization's operations and financial details. The form demands information about your organization's mission, programs, and finances. Some essential elements include:
- Organizational Details: Basic information such as name, address, and mission statement.
- Revenues, Expenses, and Changes in Net Assets: You'll need to document your revenue sources, expenditures, assets, and liabilities.
- Compensation Information: Salaries and benefits of current and former officers, directors, employees, key employees, and independent contractors.
- Governance and Management: Information about your governing body and management, policies, and disclosure practices.
- Supplemental Information: Provides further details about the financial statements, fundraising practices, grants given out, and more.
How to Complete IRS Form 990 Correctly
The logistics of completing IRS Form 990 may feel daunting, but following these steps ensures you manage this task effectively:
- Obtain the Correct Form: Depending on the size and gross receipts of your nonprofit, you may need to file Form 990, 990-EZ or 990-N (also known as the e-Postcard).
- Keep Accurate Records: Proper bookkeeping throughout the year helps to avoid potential inaccuracies or omissions.
- Allocate Time: Don't rush the form completion process. Invest the necessary time to fill it out correctly and thoroughly.
- Stay Updated: IRS regulations change from time to time. Always check for updates before filing.
- Seek Professional Help: Given the complexity, consulting a specialist or using charity compliance solution software can alleviate the burden and ensure you maintain ideal compliance.
Navigating IRS regulations and managing your Form 990 doesn't have to be overwhelming. Remember, though, as a nonprofit, your compliance duties don't stop at IRS regulations. State registration and reporting duties are an equally crucial part of your ongoing obligations.
This is where Charity Compliance Solutions can help. We assist nonprofits in staying ahead of the state compliance curve with simplicity and precision. While we don't prepare the IRS Form 990, we harness this document to streamline your state registrations, so you can focus on what matters: your mission.
At Charity Compliance Solutions, we're committed to supporting nonprofits in efficiently managing and mastering their state registration compliance requirements. Leverage our expertise to sail smoothly through your compliance journey - giving you the peace of mind to channel your energies into the good work you do.
