Last updated on Apr 16, 2016
Get the free Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
We are not affiliated with any brand or entity on this form
Fill out
Complete the form online in a simple drag-and-drop editor.
eSign
Add your legally binding signature or send the form for signing.
Share
Share the form via a link, letting anyone fill it out from any device.
Export
Download, print, email, or move the form to your cloud storage.
Why pdfFiller is the best tool for your documents and forms
End-to-end document management
From editing and signing to collaboration and tracking, pdfFiller has everything you need to get your documents done quickly and efficiently.
Accessible from anywhere
pdfFiller is fully cloud-based. This means you can edit, sign, and share documents from anywhere using your computer, smartphone, or tablet.
Secure and compliant
pdfFiller lets you securely manage documents following global laws like ESIGN, CCPA, and GDPR. It's also HIPAA and SOC 2 compliant.
What is Form 990
The Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax is a tax document used by tax-exempt organizations in the US to report financial information to the IRS.
pdfFiller scores top ratings on review platforms
Who needs Form 990?
Explore how professionals across industries use pdfFiller.
Form 990 is needed by:
-
Nonprofit organizations looking to maintain tax-exempt status
-
Accountants preparing annual tax returns for nonprofits
-
Officers responsible for organizational compliance
-
Prepares handling financial statements for tax-exempt entities
-
Financial officers seeking transparency in nonprofit reporting
Comprehensive Guide to Form 990
What is the Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax?
The Form 990 is a critical document for U.S. tax-exempt organizations, designed to report financial information to the IRS. This form serves a vital purpose by ensuring organizations disclose their financial status and activities, aiding in compliance with tax regulations. Specifically, the 2013 version of Form 990 contains essential details that reflect an organization's mission and operational effectiveness.
By filing this IRS form 990, organizations fulfill their obligation to provide transparency in their financial practices, which is crucial for maintaining trust with stakeholders and the general public.
Purpose and Benefits of the Form 990
The significance of Form 990 extends beyond mere compliance; it plays a key role in promoting transparency and accountability within nonprofit organizations. By regularly submitting this form, organizations can maintain their tax-exempt status and keep their stakeholders informed.
-
Enables stakeholders, including donors and members, to assess the financial health of the organization.
-
Facilitates public trust through the consistent reporting of financial activities.
-
Helps organizations identify potential funding opportunities through publicly accessible financial data.
Eligibility Criteria for Submitting Form 990
Not all organizations must file Form 990. Its submission is generally required for various tax-exempt entities, including charities and foundations. However, certain exceptions exist, particularly for smaller organizations that may qualify for alternative forms like Form 990-EZ or Form 990-N.
Determining eligibility involves understanding specific criteria such as annual gross receipts and total assets. Organizations falling below defined thresholds may have reduced filing requirements.
How to Fill Out the Form 990 Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax Online
Filling out the Form 990 online can be straightforward when using platforms like pdfFiller. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure accurate completion:
-
Gather essential financial documents, including income statements, balance sheets, and receipts.
-
Access the online form through pdfFiller or a similar service.
-
Complete the required sections, ensuring accuracy in all financial data.
-
Obtain the necessary signatures from both an officer and a preparer.
-
Review the form thoroughly for any discrepancies before submission.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
When completing Form 990, organizations often encounter common pitfalls that can lead to issues with submission. Some of these mistakes include:
-
Inaccurate financial data that can misrepresent the organization's situation.
-
Missing signatures from required parties which may invalidate the submission.
To avoid these errors, organizations should implement a review system. A checklist can prove invaluable, ensuring that all fields are completed correctly and all required signatures are obtained prior to submission.
Submission Methods for Form 990
Organizations have multiple options for submitting Form 990, including both e-filing and traditional paper submissions. E-filing is often recommended due to its efficiency and automatic confirmation upon receipt.
It’s critical to adhere to deadlines to prevent penalties associated with delayed submissions. Organizations should ensure they know where to send the completed form based on their submission method.
Understanding the Consequences of Not Filing or Late Filing
Failing to submit Form 990 on time can lead to significant penalties and jeopardize an organization's tax-exempt status. It’s essential for organizations to understand the repercussions of non-compliance.
-
Fines can accumulate for each month the submission is delayed.
-
Non-filing may lead to automatic revocation of tax-exempt status.
If deadlines are missed, organizations should consider steps to rectify the situation, such as filing as soon as possible and seeking consultation for potential late-filed options.
Security and Compliance Considerations for Form 990
Handling sensitive financial information during the Form 990 submission process underscores the need for robust data security measures. pdfFiller offers security features such as encryption to protect against unauthorized access.
Users can feel assured that their submissions follow compliance standards while maintaining the privacy of their documents, making it a safe choice for handling Form 990.
Simplifying Your Form 990 Process with pdfFiller
pdfFiller can significantly streamline the process of filling out and submitting Form 990. Key features include:
-
Editable templates that simplify form completion.
-
Past forms stored conveniently for easy access when needed.
-
User-friendly editing tools that enhance compliance and accuracy.
This intuitive platform offers organizations a straightforward solution to manage their Form 990 submission effectively.
Next Steps After Submission of the Form 990
Once the Form 990 has been submitted, organizations should be prepared for several follow-up actions. They can expect confirmation of receipt from the IRS and should monitor the submission status regularly.
If any corrections are needed, clients can take specific measures to amend their submissions efficiently, ensuring their records remain accurate and compliant.
How to fill out the Form 990
-
1.To begin, access pdfFiller and log into your account or create a new one if you don’t have an account. Use the search bar to find 'Form 990'.
-
2.Once you locate the form, click on the document to open it in the pdfFiller workspace. Familiarize yourself with the layout as you prepare to fill out the form.
-
3.Before you start filling out the form, gather all necessary financial records, details about your organization’s mission, activities, and any other relevant financial documents from the year 2013.
-
4.Start completing the form by clicking on each field. Enter your organization’s name, address, and the type of organization. Continue filling out the information as required in each section.
-
5.Use pdfFiller’s tools to add comments or notes where you think additional information may be needed. Ensure that all necessary fields are completed accurately.
-
6.Once you have filled out all information required by the Form 990, review each section carefully. Pay attention to details such as signatures needed from both the officer and preparer.
-
7.After reviewing, finalize the form by checking for any errors or missing information. Make sure the form is complete and accurate.
-
8.Finally, save your work by clicking on the 'Save' button. You can then download a copy for your records or submit electronically via pdfFiller’s submission options.
Who is eligible to file Form 990?
Form 990 is intended for tax-exempt organizations, including charities and nonprofits, that are required to report their financial information to the IRS. Organizations with gross receipts below a certain threshold may file simpler forms.
What is the deadline for submitting Form 990?
Form 990 is typically due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the organization’s fiscal year. Organizations may apply for an extension if needed.
How do I submit Form 990?
Form 990 can be submitted electronically through the IRS website or via e-filing with third-party services like pdfFiller. Ensure to follow specific guidelines for electronic filing.
What supporting documents are required with Form 990?
While Form 990 itself may not require additional documentation at submission, organizations should maintain records of financial statements, meeting minutes, and other documents to support the information reported.
What are common mistakes to avoid when filling out Form 990?
Common mistakes include inaccurate financial reporting, missing signatures, and omitting information. Double-check all entries for accuracy and completeness before submission.
How long does it take for Form 990 to be processed?
Processing times for Form 990 can vary. Generally, it may take several weeks for the IRS to review and process the submission, so plan accordingly.
What should I do if I need to amend Form 990?
If you need to amend Form 990, you can file Form 990-X, which is the amendment form. Be sure to indicate the changes clearly and submit it following the amendment guidelines provided by the IRS.
Related Forms
Get the latest insights from our blog
If you believe that this page should be taken down, please follow our DMCA take down process
here
.
This form may include fields for payment information. Data entered in these fields is not covered by PCI DSS compliance.