Nonprofits will want to make sure they are aware of reporting obligations so as to maintain their tax exempt status. Form 990 is due annually and should be completed by all 501(c)(3) organizations (with a few exceptions). The form serves to inform both the public and the IRS about your organization’s activities and financial status so that donors can make informed choices about donating to your cause, and the IRS can assess the legality of your organization and its tax-exempt status.

Due Date

Form 990, 990-EZ, and 990-PF must be filed by the 15th day of the 5th month after your organization’s accounting period is complete, which is May 15th for a calendar year. The electronic postcard- Form 990-N, available to certain tax exempt organizations with gross receipts of $50,000 or less, is also due the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of your tax year. For an organization’s tax year ending on December 31st, the e-Postcard must be filed by May 15th of the following year.

*Note that since May 15th falls on a Sunday this year, 2016 forms are instead due Monday, May 16th.

Not sure which version you must file?

Find out in our recent blog, “Understanding the Different Versions of Form 990”.

Is there an extension available?

You can file Form 8868 to get an automatic extension of 3 months for Forms 990, 990-EZ, and 990-PF. There is no extension available for Form 990-N, but normally there is no penalty for a late filing of the e-Postcard.

You can access Form 990 here. Due dates will change for next reporting season, stay tuned for updates.

Looking for more information on Form 990? Check out our blog series- Understanding the Importance of Your Form 990.

Questions? Contact any member of our Not-for-Profit Services Team.