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Navigating the world of nonprofit tax filings can be daunting, but understanding the IRS 990-EZ form simplifies that process significantly for many organizations. This streamlined version of the more comprehensive 990 allows smaller tax-exempt entities to report their financial activities and maintain compliance with federal regulations. The form includes essential sections that cover revenue sources, expenses, and changes in net assets, providing a clear snapshot of an organization’s financial health. Furthermore, it facilitates transparency by requiring disclosures about key personnel, governance practices, and contributions received. By filing the 990-EZ, nonprofits not only fulfill their obligation to the IRS but also enhance their credibility within their communities and among potential donors. If you’re involved with a qualifying organization, getting familiar with this form is crucial, as it serves not just as a tax document but as a vital tool in maintaining trust and accountability in your nonprofit’s mission.

IRS 990-EZ Example

Form 990-EZ

Department of the Treasury Internal Revenue Service

Short Form

Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax

Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except private foundations)

Do not enter social security numbers on this form, as it may be made public. Go to www.irs.gov/Form990EZ for instructions and the latest information.

OMB No. 1545-0047

2019

Open to Public

Inspection

A For the 2019 calendar year, or tax year beginning

, 2019, and ending

, 20

B Check if applicable:

C Name of organization

 

 

D Employer identification number

Address change

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Name change

Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)

 

Room/suite

E Telephone number

Initial return

 

 

 

 

Final return/terminated

 

 

 

 

City or town, state or province, country, and ZIP or foreign postal code

 

 

F Group Exemption

Amended return

 

 

 

 

 

Number

Application pending

 

 

 

G Accounting Method:

Cash

Accrual

Other (specify)

 

 

 

 

 

I Website:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

J Tax-exempt status (check only one) —

501(c)(3)

501(c) (

) (insert no.)

4947(a)(1) or

527

H Check

if the organization is not

required to attach Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF).

K Form of organization:

Corporation

Trust

Association

Other

LAdd lines 5b, 6c, and 7b to line 9 to determine gross receipts. If gross receipts are $200,000 or more, or if total assets

(Part II, column (B)) are $500,000 or more, file Form 990 instead of Form 990-EZ

$

 

Part I Revenue, Expenses, and Changes in Net Assets or Fund Balances (see the instructions for Part I)

Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part I . . . . . . . . . .

Revenue

Net Assets Expenses

1

Contributions, gifts, grants, and similar amounts received . . . .

. . . . . . . . .

1

 

2

Program service revenue including government fees and contracts

. . . . . . . . .

2

 

3

Membership dues and assessments

. . . . . . . . .

3

 

4

Investment income

. . . . . . . . .

4

 

5a

Gross amount from sale of assets other than inventory . . . .

 

5a

 

 

 

b

Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses

 

5b

 

 

 

c

Gain or (loss) from sale of assets other than inventory (subtract line 5b from line 5a) . . . .

5c

6Gaming and fundraising events:

aGross income from gaming (attach Schedule G if greater than

 

$15,000)

6a

 

b

Gross income from fundraising events (not including $

of contributions

 

from fundraising events reported on line 1) (attach

Schedule G if the

 

 

 

 

sum of such gross income and contributions exceeds $15,000) . .

6b

 

c

Less: direct expenses from gaming and fundraising events . . .

6c

 

dNet income or (loss) from gaming and fundraising events (add lines 6a and 6b and subtract

 

line 6c)

. . . . . . . .

 

6d

 

7a

Gross sales of inventory, less returns and allowances

7a

 

 

 

 

b

Less: cost of goods sold

7b

 

 

 

c

Gross profit or (loss) from sales of inventory (subtract line 7b from line 7a)

7c

 

8

Other revenue (describe in Schedule O)

. . . . . . . .

 

8

 

9

Total revenue. Add lines 1, 2, 3, 4, 5c, 6d, 7c, and 8

. . . . . . .

 

9

 

10

Grants and similar amounts paid (list in Schedule O)

. . . . . . . .

 

10

 

11

Benefits paid to or for members

. . . . . . . .

 

11

 

12

Salaries, other compensation, and employee benefits

. . . . . . . .

 

12

 

13

Professional fees and other payments to independent contractors . .

. . . . . . . .

 

13

 

14

Occupancy, rent, utilities, and maintenance

. . . . . . . .

 

14

 

15

Printing, publications, postage, and shipping

. . . . . . . .

 

15

 

16

Other expenses (describe in Schedule O)

. . . . . . . .

 

16

 

17

Total expenses. Add lines 10 through 16

. . . . . . .

 

17

 

18

Excess or (deficit) for the year (subtract line 17 from line 9) . . . .

. . . . . . . .

 

18

 

19Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (from line 27, column (A)) (must agree with

 

end-of-year figure reported on prior year’s return)

19

20

Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O)

20

21

Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 18 through 20

21

For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.

Cat. No. 10642I

Form 990-EZ (2019)

Form 990-EZ (2019)

 

Page 2

Part II

Balance Sheets (see the instructions for Part II)

 

 

 

 

 

Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part II

 

 

 

 

(A) Beginning of year

 

(B) End of year

 

 

 

 

 

 

22

Cash, savings, and investments

 

22

 

 

23

Land and buildings

 

23

 

 

24

Other assets (describe in Schedule O)

 

24

 

 

25

Total assets

 

25

 

 

26

Total liabilities (describe in Schedule O)

 

26

 

 

27

Net assets or fund balances (line 27 of column (B) must agree with line 21) . .

 

27

 

 

Part III Statement of Program Service Accomplishments (see the instructions for Part III)

 

 

Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part III . .

 

Expenses

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Required for section

What is the organization’s primary exempt purpose?

501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services,

organizations; optional for

as measured by expenses. In a clear and concise manner, describe the services provided, the number of

others.)

persons benefited, and other relevant information for each program title.

 

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Grants $

)

If this amount includes foreign grants, check here . . . .

28a

 

29

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Grants $

)

If this amount includes foreign grants, check here . . . .

29a

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Grants $

)

If this amount includes foreign grants, check here . . . .

30a

 

31

 

Other program services (describe in Schedule O)

 

 

 

(Grants $

)

If this amount includes foreign grants, check here . . . .

31a

 

32

 

Total program service expenses (add lines 28a through 31a)

32

 

Part IV List of Officers, Directors, Trustees, and Key Employees (list each one even if not compensated—see the instructions for Part IV)

Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part IV . . . . . . . . .

(a)Name and title

(b)Average hours per week

devoted to position

(c) Reportable

(d) Health benefits,

(e) Estimated amount of

compensation

contributions to employee

(Forms W-2/1099-MISC)

benefit plans, and

other compensation

(if not paid, enter -0-)

deferred compensation

 

 

 

 

Form 990-EZ (2019)

Form 990-EZ (2019)

Page 3

Part V

Other Information (Note the Schedule A and personal benefit contract statement requirements in the

 

instructions for Part V.) Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part V .

 

 

 

Yes No

33Did the organization engage in any significant activity not previously reported to the IRS? If “Yes,” provide a

detailed description of each activity in Schedule O

33

34Were any significant changes made to the organizing or governing documents? If “Yes,” attach a conformed copy of the amended documents if they reflect a change to the organization’s name. Otherwise, explain the

change on Schedule O. See instructions

34

35a Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year from business

 

activities (such as those reported on lines 2, 6a, and 7a, among others)?

35a

b If “Yes” to line 35a, has the organization filed a Form 990-T for the year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O

35b

cWas the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization subject to section 6033(e) notice,

reporting, and proxy tax requirements during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part III

35c

36Did the organization undergo a liquidation, dissolution, termination, or significant disposition of net assets

 

during the year? If “Yes,”

complete applicable parts of Schedule N

. . . . . .

 

 

36

 

37a

Enter amount of political expenditures, direct or indirect, as described in the instructions

37a

 

 

 

 

 

b

Did the organization file Form 1120-POL for this year?

. . . . . .

 

 

37b

 

38a

Did the organization borrow from, or make any loans to, any officer, director, trustee, or key employee; or were

 

 

 

 

any such loans made in a prior year and still outstanding at the end of the tax year covered by this return? .

38a

 

b

If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part II, and enter the total amount involved . . . .

38b

 

 

 

 

 

39

Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

a

Initiation fees and capital contributions included on line 9

39a

 

 

 

 

b

Gross receipts, included on line 9, for public use of club facilities

39b

 

 

 

 

40a

Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Enter amount of tax imposed on the organization during the year under:

 

 

 

section 4911

 

; section 4912

 

; section 4955

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

bSection 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Did the organization engage in any section 4958

excess benefit transaction during the year, or did it engage in an excess benefit transaction in a prior year

 

 

that has not been reported on any of its prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I

 

40b

c Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Enter amount of tax imposed

 

 

on organization managers or disqualified persons during the year under sections 4912,

 

 

4955, and 4958

 

 

 

 

 

d Section 501(c)(3), 501(c)(4), and 501(c)(29) organizations. Enter amount of tax on line

 

 

 

40c reimbursed by the organization

 

 

eAll organizations. At any time during the tax year, was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter

 

transaction? If “Yes,” complete Form 8886-T

 

40e

 

41

List the states with which a copy of this return is filed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

42a

The organization’s books are in care of

Telephone no.

 

 

 

 

 

b

Located at

ZIP + 4

 

 

 

 

 

At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in or a signature or other authority

over

 

 

Yes

No

 

a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account, securities account, or other financial account)?

 

42b

 

 

 

If “Yes,” enter the name of the foreign country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

See the instructions for exceptions and filing requirements for FinCEN Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and

 

 

 

 

 

Financial Accounts (FBAR).

 

 

 

 

 

 

c

At any time during the calendar year, did the organization maintain an office outside the United States? .

 

42c

 

 

 

If “Yes,” enter the name of the foreign country

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

43

Section 4947(a)(1) nonexempt charitable trusts filing Form 990-EZ in lieu of Form 1041—Check here

 

 

and enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the tax year .

. . . .

43

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yes

No

44a

Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds during the year? If “Yes,” Form 990 must be

 

 

 

 

 

completed instead of Form 990-EZ

 

44a

 

bDid the organization operate one or more hospital facilities during the year? If “Yes,” Form 990 must be

completed instead of Form 990-EZ

44b

c Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the year?

44c

dIf “Yes” to line 44c, has the organization filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an

explanation in Schedule O

44d

45a Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?

45a

bDid the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” Form 990 and Schedule R may need to be completed instead of

Form 990-EZ. See instructions

45b

Form 990-EZ (2019)

Form 990-EZ (2019)

Page 4

46Did the organization engage, directly or indirectly, in political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part I . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Yes No

46

Part VI Section 501(c)(3) Organizations Only

All section 501(c)(3) organizations must answer questions 47–49b and 52, and complete the tables for lines 50 and 51.

Check if the organization used Schedule O to respond to any question in this Part VI . . . . . . . . .

Yes No

47Did the organization engage in lobbying activities or have a section 501(h) election in effect during the tax

 

year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part II

47

48

Is the organization a school as described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E . . . .

48

49a

Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization?

49a

b

If “Yes,” was the related organization a section 527 organization?

49b

50Complete this table for the organization’s five highest compensated employees (other than officers, directors, trustees, and key employees) who each received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. If there is none, enter “None.”

 

(b) Average

(c) Reportable

(d) Health benefits,

(e) Estimated amount of

(a) Name and title of each employee

contributions to employee

hours per week

compensation

benefit plans, and deferred

other compensation

 

devoted to position

(Forms W-2/1099-MISC)

 

 

 

compensation

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

f Total number of other employees paid over $100,000 . . . .

51Complete this table for the organization’s five highest compensated independent contractors who each received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. If there is none, enter “None.”

(a)Name and business address of each independent contractor

(b)Type of service

(c)Compensation

d Total number of other independent contractors each receiving over $100,000 . .

52Did the organization complete Schedule A? Note: All section 501(c)(3) organizations must attach a completed Schedule A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Yes

No

Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.

Sign

Here

Paid

Preparer

Use Only

 

F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Signature of officer

 

 

 

 

Date

 

 

 

 

F

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Type or print name and title

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Print/Type preparer’s name

 

Preparer’s signature

 

Date

 

Check

if

 

PTIN

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

self-employed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Firm’s name

 

 

 

 

Firm’s EIN

 

 

 

 

Firm’s address

 

 

 

 

Phone no.

 

 

 

May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See instructions . . . . . . . . . .

Yes

No

Form 990-EZ (2019)

File Breakdown

Fact Name Description
Purpose The IRS Form 990-EZ is used by certain tax-exempt organizations to provide annual financial information to the IRS.
Eligibility Organizations with gross receipts between $200,000 and $500,000 and total assets under $2.5 million can file this form.
Filing Deadline The form is due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the organization’s fiscal year.
E-Filing Form 990-EZ can be filed electronically through the IRS web portal or paper mailed.
State-Specific Requirements Some states may require additional forms or reports. The governing laws vary by state.
Public Disclosure The form is publicly accessible and must be available for viewing by anyone upon request.

Guide to Using IRS 990-EZ

Once you have gathered your financial records and organizational information, you are ready to begin completing the IRS 990-EZ form. This form is an essential document for many tax-exempt organizations, as it provides a summary of financial information and helps fulfill the annual reporting requirements with the IRS. Follow the steps below to ensure you complete the form accurately.

  1. Collect the necessary information, including your organization’s legal name, address, and Employer Identification Number (EIN).
  2. Review the form's instructions carefully. Confirm that your organization qualifies to use the 990-EZ form based on income thresholds and other criteria.
  3. Begin filling out the form, starting with Part I. Record your organization's revenue, including contributions, program service revenue, and other income sources.
  4. Proceed to Part II. Document your expenses, separating them into categories such as salaries, professional fees, and other expenditures.
  5. In Part III, answer questions regarding your organization’s mission and activities. This may require a brief narrative description.
  6. For Part IV, ensure you provide correct information on governance and management practices, including details about your board members.
  7. Complete Part V, where you will provide information on the organization’s balance sheet, including assets and liabilities.
  8. In Part VI, validate compliance with public disclosure requirements. Refer to your organization’s policies on financial record-keeping and retention.
  9. Review all each part to ensure accuracy. Look for any omissions or mistakes, as these could lead to processing delays.
  10. Once satisfied with the completed form, sign and date it. Ensure it is signed by an authorized officer of the organization.
  11. Submit the form to the IRS by the deadline, which is typically the 15th day of the fifth month after the end of your organization’s fiscal year.

Completing the IRS 990-EZ form may seem daunting, but by following these steps methodically, you can organize your information and ensure compliance. Remember to keep a copy of the filed form for your records and maintain records of financial activities throughout the year.

Get Answers on IRS 990-EZ

  1. What is the IRS 990-EZ Form?

    The IRS 990-EZ form is a simplified version of the Form 990 used by small tax-exempt organizations to report their income, expenses, and activities. This form provides the IRS with necessary information about an organization’s financial health, allowing them to determine compliance with tax regulations.

  2. Who needs to file the IRS 990-EZ?

    Typically, organizations that have gross receipts between $200,000 and $500,000 and total assets of less than $2.5 million are required to file the 990-EZ. Additionally, certain organizations, like charities and educational institutions, may need to file even if they do not meet these thresholds.

  3. What is the deadline for filing the IRS 990-EZ?

    The deadline to file the IRS 990-EZ is the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of your organization's fiscal year. If your fiscal year ends on December 31, for example, the filing deadline would be May 15. Extensions are possible, but you must file Form 8868 to request one.

  4. What information is required on the IRS 990-EZ?

    The IRS 990-EZ requires various financial information including:

    • (a) Gross receipts
    • (b) Total expenses
    • (c) Net assets
    • (d) Compensation for highest-paid employees
    • (e) Activities conducted during the year

    This information helps to provide a clear picture of the organization’s operations and finances.

  5. How does filing the IRS 990-EZ impact an organization?

    Filing the IRS 990-EZ can impact an organization in several ways. It is vital for maintaining tax-exempt status and ensuring transparency with the public. Additionally, it can affect the organization’s ability to receive grants, as many funders require proof of compliance with filing requirements.

  6. What are the consequences of failing to file the IRS 990-EZ?

    Failure to file the IRS 990-EZ can lead to serious consequences. The IRS may impose penalties, which can vary based on the size of the organization and the duration of non-compliance. Continued failure to file may result in automatic revocation of tax-exempt status, making it imperative to stay compliant.

  7. Can organizations file electronically?

    Yes, organizations can file the IRS 990-EZ electronically. The IRS offers e-filing options which can make submitting the form quicker and easier. Be sure to check the IRS website for approved e-filing software and platforms.

Common mistakes

Filing the IRS 990-EZ form is crucial for tax-exempt organizations to maintain compliance. However, many people make significant mistakes when completing this form. Understanding these common errors can help ensure accurate submissions.

One frequent mistake is failing to check the eligibility requirements. Organizations that do not meet the criteria for filing the 990-EZ must complete the full 990 form instead. It's essential to assess size, revenue, and other factors before proceeding.

Another common error involves incorrect financial reporting. Many filers misreport their total revenue or expenses. This can lead to discrepancies and trigger audits. Review the organization’s financial records carefully to ensure accuracy.

Omitting essential information is also a problem. Sections related to program service accomplishments often get overlooked. Providing detailed information demonstrates compliance and helps maintain public trust. Organizations should clearly articulate their mission and achievements.

Additionally, many organizations fail to include the correct signatures. An unsigned form is considered incomplete, leading to potential penalties. It's vital to ensure that all required signatures are present before submission.

Another pitfall is not adhering to the filing deadline. Late submissions can incur penalties and affect an organization’s tax-exempt status. Marking the calendar with reminders for these deadlines can help avoid this issue.

It's important to understand the implications of not providing required schedules. Some organizations mistakenly believe that they can skip certain schedules if they don’t apply. However, all pertinent schedules must be completed to provide a comprehensive view of the organization’s financial health.

Finally, neglecting to keep a copy of the completed form leads to future complications. Having a record can help in referencing past filings or responding to inquiries from the IRS. It’s advisable to store a copy in an easily accessible location.

Documents used along the form

The IRS 990-EZ form is an essential document for many non-profit organizations, but it often accompanies other forms and documents that help to provide a complete financial picture. Understanding these additional forms can ensure that you meet all compliance requirements while clearly presenting your organization’s activities and financial health.

  • IRS Form 990: This is the longer version of the 990-EZ form and is required for larger organizations. It provides comprehensive information about an organization's mission, programs, and finances.
  • IRS Form 990-PF: This form is specifically for private foundations. It covers similar financial details but has different disclosures required by the IRS.
  • Schedule A: Attached to the 990 forms, Schedule A is used to support the organization’s public charity status and provide additional information about its fundraising practices.
  • Schedule B: This schedule lists significant contributors to the organization. It's important for transparency and meeting disclosure requirements.
  • Form 8868: This form is for organizations that need an extension of time to file their 990 forms. Filling it out properly can grant up to six additional months to file.
  • State Filings: Many states require separate annual reports or forms for non-profits. These vary by state but are crucial for maintaining good standing with local authorities.

Keeping track of these forms, along with the IRS 990-EZ, is essential for ensuring smooth operations for your non-profit. By managing your paperwork effectively, your organization can focus more on its mission and less on compliance worries.

Similar forms

The IRS Form 990-EZ is a key document for non-profit organizations, providing a simplified way to report financial information to the Internal Revenue Service. It's important to understand how it compares to other forms related to nonprofit reporting. Here are eight documents that share similarities with the Form 990-EZ:

  • IRS Form 990: This is the standard annual information return filed by most tax-exempt organizations. Unlike the 990-EZ, the 990 requires more detailed reporting, but both serve to provide transparency regarding a nonprofit's finances.
  • IRS Form 990-PF: This form is for private foundations and includes detailed information about the foundation’s operations and finances. While the 990-EZ is for smaller nonprofits, the 990-PF shares the goal of informing the IRS about a charitable organization’s activities.
  • IRS Form 1023: This application for tax-exempt status is essential for organizations seeking recognition under section 501(c)(3). The Form 990-EZ, filed annually, builds upon the information provided in Form 1023, offering ongoing fiscal transparency.
  • IRS Form 990-N: Also known as the e-Postcard, this form is a simplified annual notice for smaller nonprofits with gross receipts of $50,000 or less. Like the 990-EZ, it aims to maintain compliance and keep the IRS informed but is even shorter and easier to complete.
  • IRS Form 990-T: This form is used by nonprofits to report unrelated business income. While the 990-EZ focuses on overall financial performance, the 990-T is specifically for reporting income that is not substantially related to the organization's exempt purpose.
  • IRS Schedule A: This supplementary form is attached to the Form 990 or 990-EZ and contains detailed information regarding the organization’s public charity status. It enhances transparency, helping the IRS ensure compliance with public support tests.
  • IRS Schedule B: This form, also a supplementary report, lists the organization’s significant donors. While the 990-EZ summarizes overall financial data, Schedule B provides more granularity about contributions, reinforcing accountability.
  • IRS Schedule D: This form details an organization's financial statements, including its balance sheet and accounting policies. Though the 990-EZ includes a summary, Schedule D dives deeper into the financial particulars, supporting a full understanding of the nonprofit's fiscal health.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the IRS 990-EZ form, it is essential to follow certain guidelines to ensure accuracy and compliance. Here’s a helpful list of what you should and shouldn't do:

  • Do read the instructions carefully before starting.
  • Do ensure that all financial information is accurate and up-to-date.
  • Do provide a complete and thorough description of your organization's activities.
  • Do double-check all calculations for accuracy.
  • Do file the form by the due date to avoid penalties.
  • Don’t leave out any required sections on the form.
  • Don’t use outdated or incorrect financial data.
  • Don’t forget to include your employer identification number (EIN).
  • Don’t ignore the importance of signatures and date on the form.

By adhering to these guidelines, you can facilitate a smoother filing process for your IRS 990-EZ form.

Misconceptions

When it comes to the IRS 990-EZ form, several misconceptions can lead to confusion for nonprofit organizations. Understanding the facts can help ensure compliance and transparency. Here are four common misunderstandings:

  1. The IRS 990-EZ form is only for large organizations. Many believe that only large nonprofits need to file this form. In reality, the 990-EZ is designed for smaller organizations that typically have gross receipts between $200,000 and $500,000. It offers a simpler reporting option, making it accessible to many entities that may not qualify for the more complex 990 form.
  2. Filing the 990-EZ ensures tax exempt status. Some organizations think that merely submitting the 990-EZ will protect their tax-exempt status. While filing is certainly necessary to maintain this status, it's not the sole requirement. Compliance with state and federal laws, along with maintaining operational transparency, is equally important to keep your tax-exempt status.
  3. Only financial information needs to be reported. A common misconception is that only financial data is required on the 990-EZ. While financial statements are crucial, the form also requires organizations to disclose additional information about their activities, governance, and accomplishments. This holistic view allows the IRS to better understand the organization's impact and adherence to tax-exempt requirements.
  4. Filing can be done anytime during the year. Many believe they can submit their 990-EZ form at their convenience. However, there are specific deadlines based on the organization's fiscal year-end. Generally, the form must be filed within five months after the end of the fiscal year. Missing this deadline can result in penalties and jeopardize an organization's tax-exempt status.

Awareness of these misconceptions can empower organizations to meet their obligations confidently. Proper understanding fosters trust and accountability in the eyes of donors, stakeholders, and the community.

Key takeaways

The IRS 990-EZ form is a streamlined version of the full Form 990, designed for smaller tax-exempt organizations. Here are important points to consider when filling out and using this form:

  • The form is required annually for organizations earning less than $200,000 in gross receipts and with total assets under $500,000.
  • Accurate financial reporting is crucial; include revenue from all sources, including donations and program fees.
  • Ensure the organization’s tax-exempt status is confirmed, as this form is specifically for non-profit entities.
  • Report any compensation paid to officers, directors, and key employees to maintain transparency.
  • Filing deadlines are important; the form is typically due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the organization’s fiscal year ends.
  • Use the form to provide a snapshot of the organization’s mission, programming, and financial activities to maintain public trust.