Get the free IRS Form 990 Tax Return

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 Return is a key document used by tax-exempt organizations in the United States to report their financial information to the Internal Revenue Service.

pdfFiller scores top ratings on review platforms

Show more Show less

Fill fillable 990 form: Try Risk Free

Rate free 990 form

4.1

satisfied

51 votes

Who needs Form 990?

Explore how professionals across industries use pdfFiller.

Form 990 is needed by:

Nonprofit organizations seeking tax-exempt status
Charitable organizations required to provide financial transparency
Foundations managing grants and donations
Officers who submit financial documents on behalf of their organization
Tax preparers assisting nonprofits with filing requirements
Accountants overseeing nonprofit compliance
State agencies reviewing nonprofit financial activities

Comprehensive Guide to Form 990

What is the IRS Form 990 Tax Return?

The IRS Form 990 is a crucial tax document specifically designed for tax-exempt organizations in the United States. This form serves to provide a comprehensive overview of an organization's financial health, including its mission, activities, and financial status. In particular, the version relevant for the tax year 2018 must be accurately completed to ensure compliance with IRS regulations.

Understanding the intricacies of IRS Form 990 helps organizations uphold their tax-exempt status while fostering transparency with donors and the public. Completing this document is not just a requirement; it's a vital part of maintaining trust and accountability.

Purpose and Benefits of the IRS Form 990 Tax Return

The IRS Form 990 serves multiple purposes that are essential for nonprofit organizations. Its primary function is to promote transparency, which is critical for maintaining tax-exempt status. Nonprofits that regularly file this form create a foundation of trust with potential donors and stakeholders.

Additionally, the benefits of utilizing Form 990 include enhanced public accountability and a positive public perception. When organizations file accurately and on time, they contribute to a trustworthy mission that resonates with the community, donors, and support networks.

Who Needs the IRS Form 990 Tax Return?

Various types of organizations are required to file the IRS Form 990. Generally, tax-exempt organizations like charities, foundations, and certain educational institutions must adhere to these requirements. However, specific exemptions exist based on size and revenue that can determine eligibility for simplified filing options.

Officers and preparers must be aware of their responsibilities in this process, as ensuring accurate and timely submissions is vital. Organizations that fail to comply may face penalties or a loss of tax-exempt status.

How to Fill Out the IRS Form 990 Tax Return Online (Step-by-Step)

Filling out the IRS Form 990 online requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Begin by gathering all necessary documents, including financial statements, board meeting minutes, and IRS determination letters. Each section of the form demands accurate data entry, which can be completed using the following steps:

Access the online platform for filing the IRS Form 990.
Input the organization’s basic information such as name, address, and EIN.
Complete financial sections with the organization's income, expenses, and assets.
Disclose functional expenses and compensation for key employees.
Review the completed form for accuracy before submission.

Be vigilant about common errors, including incorrect financial data and overlooking required signatures, to prevent issues during the filing process.

Signing and Submission Requirements for the IRS Form 990 Tax Return

The IRS Form 990 requires specific signatures before it can be submitted. Organizations must determine whether they will use a digital signature or a traditional wet signature based on their filing choice. There are several submission options available, such as electronic filing or mailing a paper form, each with its own set of requirements.

It's important to adhere to the submission timelines and deadlines to ensure compliance with IRS regulations. Late submissions can lead to penalties or issues with tax-exempt status.

Handling Rejections and Corrections for the IRS Form 990

Organizations may encounter rejections when submitting the IRS Form 990, often due to common reasons such as discrepancies in financial data or missing signatures. Understanding these rejection reasons is the first step to resolving them effectively.

If corrections or amendments are necessary, follow these steps to address them:

Identify the specific reasons for rejection as outlined by the IRS.
Gather necessary documentation to support corrective actions.
Complete an amended return if necessary and resubmit.
Track submission status through the IRS website for confirmation.

Proactive tracking and swift action help maintain compliance and prevent further issues.

Security and Compliance When Filing IRS Form 990

When handling the IRS Form 990, security is paramount. Ensuring that sensitive information is protected can be achieved through stringent security practices, such as 256-bit encryption. Organizations should be aware that compliance with standards like HIPAA and GDPR is crucial when dealing with such documents.

Implementing data protection strategies, such as access controls and secure document storage, can further safeguard against data breaches during the filing process.

Utilizing pdfFiller for Your IRS Form 990 Tax Return

pdfFiller offers unique features that make filling out the IRS Form 990 easier and more efficient. Utilizing a cloud-based platform allows users to complete forms and eSign documents without software downloads, enhancing flexibility and accessibility.

The user-friendly interface streamlines the process of managing documents, helping organizations efficiently complete and file their forms. This practical approach alleviates the stress often associated with tax filings.

Sample Completed IRS Form 990 Tax Return

To assist users in understanding how to fill out the IRS Form 990, a sample completed form serves as a valuable resource. This sample can guide users through different sections, clearly annotating each element for clarity.

Reviewing such examples can impart crucial lessons about filling out your own forms accurately and efficiently, ultimately leading to successful submissions.

Last updated on Aug 20, 2026

How to fill out the Form 990

1.

To begin, access pdfFiller and log into your account. If you do not have an account, create one to get started. Search for 'IRS Form 990' in the form library.
2.

After locating the form, select it to open in the pdfFiller editor. Familiarize yourself with the toolbars available for editing and filling out your form.
3.

Gather all necessary financial information, including your organization’s income, expenses, assets, and activities related to the 2018 tax year, to ensure accurate completion.
4.

In the editor, click on each field to enter relevant information. Use the text boxes, dropdowns, and checkboxes provided to accurately reflect your organization’s financial status.
5.

Once you have completed all fields, review the form carefully to ensure there are no mistakes or missing information. Verify that all totals are accurate.
6.

Finalize your document by saving changes within pdfFiller. You can download it as a PDF file or save it directly to your pdfFiller account for later use.
7.

If required, print the completed form for signatures from the officer and preparer. Use the submit features in pdfFiller to electronically submit your form to the IRS when ready.

FAQs

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

Contact Support

Who is eligible to file IRS Form 990?

IRS Form 990 is required for tax-exempt organizations, including nonprofits and charities, that gross over $200,000 annually or have total assets exceeding $500,000. Ensure your organization meets these criteria before filing.

What is the deadline for submitting Form 990?

Form 990 is due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of your organization’s fiscal year. For organizations with a calendar year-end, the due date is May 15. Extensions can be filed if necessary.

How do I submit IRS Form 990?

You can submit Form 990 electronically through the IRS e-file system or by mailing a paper copy to the appropriate IRS address. pdfFiller provides e-filing options to streamline this process.

What supporting documents do I need for Form 990?

You will need detailed financial statements, a list of revenue sources, and any supporting documents that provide context for your organization’s activities and financial status. Ensure all required attachments are included.

What common mistakes should I avoid when filing Form 990?

Common mistakes include incorrect financial reporting, missing signatures, and failing to provide all required schedules. Double-check all entries and ensure compliance with IRS requirements before submission.

What is the processing time for Form 990?

Processing times can vary, but electronic submissions are typically processed faster than paper submissions. It may take several weeks to receive confirmation of your filing from the IRS.

What should I do if I make an error on Form 990?

If you discover an error after submission, you can file an amended Form 990 to correct inaccuracies. Make sure to indicate that it is an amendment on the top of the form to avoid confusion.