IRS Form 990 Due May 15, 2015

Important Compliance Deadline for Nonprofits: Form 990 is due on 5/15/2015

For nonprofits on a calendar tax year, your annual 990 filing is due May 15, 2015. This applies to most nonprofits.

Organizations not on a calendar tax year must file their 990 by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of their calendar year.

What is a 990 filing?

The 990 is an annual return filed with the IRS. The 990 discloses up-to-date information on your nonprofit’s finances and operations. The specific form your organization files depends on your revenue: Form 990-N, Form 990-EZ, or Form 990.

Who must file a 990?

All nonprofits that have incorporated, even if they have not received an IRS determination letter must file a 990. To repeat, you must file one of these forms whether or not you have received 501(c) tax exemption.

What if I don’t file?

If you have received a 501(c) determination letter, failure to file a 990 for three consecutive years can result in revocation of tax exemption.

If your 501(c) application is pending, and you have not yet received a determination letter, you still must file a 990, or you will be out of compliance.

Which version of the 990 do I file?

There are three common versions: Form 990-N, Form 990-EZ, and Form 990. The form you file depends on your organization’s revenue. The good news is that small nonprofits do not have to file the full Form 990, and can file the simpler 990-N or 990-EZ. For more details, visit this free guide from the IRS.

Organizations whose gross receipts are normally $50,000 or less can file 990-N. You can file 990-N online using this link.

Foundations and Churches

If you are a private foundation, you will file Form 990-PF irrespective of your organization’s revenue. Churches are not required to file a 990, though they can, and many churches elect to.

Filing a copy of 990 with the state

Some states require you file a copy of your 990 filing with their Department of Revenue. Other states, such as California, have its own version of 990 that nonprofits must submit.

Harbor Compliance clients enjoy key reminders, including Form 990, state annual reports, and fundraising renewal due dates, which help their new and existing nonprofits stay compliant. Visit our nonprofit formation page to learn more.