Don’t Miss the 11/15 Deadline for Filing Your Non-Profit’s Form 990

The November 15, 2024 deadline for filing your Form 990 is fast approaching, and this is your final chance to get it done without facing penalties. Missing this deadline could result in fines and jeopardize your non-profit’s tax-exempt status. There’s no time to lose, so make sure you’re prepared.

This Week’s Focus: It's Late in the Game - Let's Get That 990 Filed.

In addition to double-checking your filing, it’s essential to confirm that your organization is still listed in IRS Publication 78. This resource is what donors rely on to verify that their contributions are tax-deductible, and staying on this list keeps your non-profit in good standing. 

What You Need to Do Right Now:

Check Your Status in Publication 78

• Why it’s important: Make sure your non-profit is listed in IRS Publication 78. If you’ve missed any filings in the past, your tax-exempt status may have been revoked. Donors won’t be able to claim deductions if your organization isn’t listed.
• How to check: Use the IRS’s Publication 78 database to confirm your current status. If there’s an issue, take action immediately to resolve it.

File Your Form 990 by November 15

• Why it matters: November 15 is the final extended deadline. There’s no more time for extensions unless you’re in a disaster-affected area. Missing this filing date could mean penalties, and even worse, losing your tax-exempt status.
• Disaster zones: If your organization is in a disaster-affected area, there may be further extensions. Be sure to verify the deadline for your location.

Avoid Common Filing Mistakes

• Form Selection: Use the right version of Form 990 based on your organization’s size. Filing the wrong form could delay the process.
• Unrelated Business Income: If you have income that’s not directly related to your mission, it must be reported on Form 990-T. Don’t overlook this!
• Grant Reporting: Properly account for restricted funds or grants and be clear about how they’ve been used. This is one area where errors can cause real trouble.

Why Staying on Publication 78 Is Critical for Donors

• Donor Confidence: Donors check Publication 78 to verify that their contributions to your organization are tax-deductible. If your name doesn’t appear, it could lead to confusion or loss of trust—and lost donations.
• Reinstatement: If your tax-exempt status has been revoked, filing your Form 990 accurately and on time can help restore your standing and get you back in Publication 78.

Thank you to all the non-profits tirelessly working in disaster zones. Thank you for your courage and compassion and for being the beacon of hope that so many people need right now. We’re committed to sharing the resources and information that can help make your journey a little easier.

Need More Personalized Advice?

If you need help implementing these practices or have specific questions about your non-profit’s finances, we’re here to assist.