Get the free IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application

Get Form

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

Learn more about security

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 IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application is a tax document used by tax-exempt organizations to report financial information to the IRS and apply for tax-exempt status.

pdfFiller scores top ratings on review platforms

Show more Show less

Fill fillable 990 form: Try Risk Free

Rate free 990 form

4.0

satisfied

26 votes

Who needs Form 990?

Explore how professionals across industries use pdfFiller.

Form 990 is needed by:

Nonprofit organizations seeking tax-exempt status
Tax preparers assisting nonprofit clients
Officers of tax-exempt organizations
Accountants specializing in nonprofit finances
Financial advisors for charitable organizations
Board members of nonprofits

Comprehensive Guide to Form 990

What is the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application?

The IRS Form 990 is a vital document for tax-exempt organizations in the United States, serving the purpose of reporting financial information to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This form provides a comprehensive overview of the organization’s mission, activities, and financial status, particularly highlighting the requirements set forth in the 2008 version. It plays a crucial role in ensuring that these organizations maintain transparency in their financial reporting, which is essential for gaining and retaining trust from donors and stakeholders.

Understanding IRS Form 990 is essential for any nonprofit as it outlines the specific financial and operational information that must be reported. Accurate completion of this form is not only a compliance requirement but also a way to demonstrate the organization’s commitment to responsible fiscal management.

Purpose and Benefits of the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application

Organizations must complete the IRS Form 990 to comply with IRS regulations, which is necessary for maintaining a tax-exempt status. By doing so, organizations guarantee transparency, allowing donors and stakeholders to review their financial health and operational efficiency. This transparency is fundamental in fostering ongoing support and contributions.

Ensures compliance with IRS requirements for retaining tax-exempt status.
Offers transparency in financial reporting, which builds trust with stakeholders.
Avoids potential penalties associated with non-compliance.

Thus, submitting this form serves multiple functions beyond mere regulatory adherence; it bolsters the organization’s reputation and encourages donor confidence.

Who Needs the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application?

The IRS Form 990 must be filed by a variety of tax-exempt organizations, including charities, private foundations, and some nonprofit organizations. Eligibility can vary based on specific criteria set forth by the IRS, particularly in states like California, where additional requirements may need to be met.

Public charities that receive significant funding from the general public.
Private foundations that typically focus on grant-making.
Organizations recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) or similar sections.

Each entity type may have unique considerations influencing their filing obligations, thus making it essential for organizations to ascertain their specific requirements when applying.

Eligibility Criteria for the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application

To qualify for the IRS Form 990, organizations must adhere to detailed eligibility requirements laid out by the IRS. These requirements evaluate the organization’s purpose, operational structure, and adherence to nonprofit guidelines.

Organizations must demonstrate their primary purpose is charitable, educational, or similar.
Proper documentation is essential, including articles of incorporation and bylaws.
Common misconceptions include misunderstandings around income thresholds and asset limits.

Clarifying these eligibility criteria helps prevent organizations from making errors during the application process that could otherwise impact their tax-exempt status.

How to Fill Out the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application Online

Filling out the IRS Form 990 online requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Before starting the application, organizations should gather all necessary information, including financial statements and program descriptions.

Start by collecting financial data such as income statements and balance sheets.
Break down the form field-by-field, ensuring understanding of each section.
Double-check all entries for accuracy to avoid unnecessary corrections later.

Taking these steps ensures that the form is completed accurately, reducing the chances of submission errors.

Common Errors and How to Avoid Them When Filing IRS Form 990

Filing the IRS Form 990 comes with potential pitfalls that organizations must avoid. Awareness of these common errors can significantly enhance the quality of the submission.

Errors in financial reporting or misreporting revenue sources.
Incomplete sections that may lead to additional scrutiny.
Lack of thoroughness in reviewing the application before submission.

Ensuring diligent review and maintaining accurate records can substantially decrease the risk of making these errors, safeguarding the organization's standing with the IRS.

Submission Methods for the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application

Organizations can submit their IRS Form 990 through a variety of accepted methods. Understanding these options is crucial for timely submission.

Electronic filing (e-file) through authorized providers.
Postal submission, following specific mailing instructions for California organizations.
Keeping track of submission receipts and confirmation numbers for reference.

Choosing the right submission method and tracking the application ensures that organizations remain compliant and informed throughout the process.

What Happens After You Submit the IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application?

Once the IRS Form 990 is submitted, organizations enter a crucial phase, where they need to monitor the application’s progress. The IRS processes applications within a defined timeline, and organizations should remain attentive to any further communication.

Tracking your application status for updates.
Correcting any mistakes through amendment procedures if required.
Understanding the significance of confirmation receipts received post-submission.

This proactive approach enables organizations to address any issues quickly, ensuring that they maintain their tax-exempt status.

Using pdfFiller for IRS Form 990 Tax Exemption Application

Utilizing pdfFiller can greatly simplify the process of working with the IRS Form 990. This cloud-based platform offers robust tools designed specifically for managing tax documents securely.

Edit documents seamlessly to ensure all information is accurate.
Employ eSigning capabilities to obtain the requisite signatures.
Store documents securely with adherence to standards like HIPAA and GDPR.

By leveraging the features of pdfFiller, organizations can better manage their tax filings while ensuring the security of sensitive information.

Next Steps for Maintaining Tax-Exempt Status After Filing

Following the filing of IRS Form 990, organizations must implement strategies to maintain their tax-exempt status effectively. This involves various ongoing responsibilities.

Keeping meticulous records as mandated by the IRS.
Understanding the renewal process and timelines for re-filing.
Staying updated on any changes in compliance requirements that may affect their status.

By remaining diligent in these areas, organizations can sustain their tax-exempt status and continue to fulfill their missions effectively.

Last updated on Jul 1, 2015

How to fill out the Form 990

1.

To access the IRS Form 990 on pdfFiller, visit the website and use the search bar to locate the form. Once found, click on the form title to open it.
2.

Navigate through the pdfFiller interface by using the toolbar to fill in each required field. Hover over fields to see tooltips for guidance.
3.

Before starting to fill in the form, gather necessary information such as the organization's financial data, mission statement, and details about activities undertaken during the fiscal year.
4.

As you complete the form, ensure that all the necessary sections are filled accurately. Review entries for any errors, and make corrections where needed.
5.

Once you have filled in all the required fields, take the time to review the entire form thoroughly to ensure completeness and accuracy.
6.

To finalize the form, follow the prompts in pdfFiller to add signatures where required. Make sure both the officer and the preparer sign the document.
7.

Finally, save the completed form by selecting the ‘Save’ option. You can also download a PDF copy or submit it directly through pdfFiller, following the provided instructions.

FAQs

If you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us anytime!

Contact Support

Who is eligible to use the IRS Form 990?

Nonprofit organizations and tax-exempt entities can use IRS Form 990 to submit their financial information to the IRS. Eligibility generally depends on maintaining tax-exempt status and fulfilling filing requirements.

What is the deadline for submitting IRS Form 990?

IRS Form 990 is typically due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the organization's fiscal year. For example, if the fiscal year ends on December 31, the form is due by May 15 of the following year.

What is the process for submitting Form 990?

Organizations can submit IRS Form 990 electronically via the IRS e-file system or by mailing a completed paper form to the appropriate IRS address based on their state.

What documents are required to support IRS Form 990?

Supporting documents can include financial statements, a schedule of grants, and detailed descriptions of the organization's activities. It's important to check for specific requirements based on the organization’s circumstances.

What are common mistakes to avoid when filling out Form 990?

Common mistakes include failing to sign the form, leaving blank fields, misreporting financial information, and not attaching required schedules. Always double-check the requirements and the entire form before submission.

How long does it take to process Form 990?

Processing times for IRS Form 990 can vary based on factors such as submission method and IRS backlog. Typically, allow several weeks to a few months for processing confirmation and updates.

Can I amend a submitted IRS Form 990?

Yes, organizations can amend a submitted Form 990 by filing Form 990-X. This form allows for corrections or updates to be made after the initial submission.