FAQs - Form 990
Here are some common questions you may have about Form 990
When is Form 990 due?
Which Form 990 must I file?
- File Form 990-N (e-Postcard) if your organization's gross receipts are normally $50,000 or less.
- File Form 990-EZ if your organization's gross receipts are less than $200,000 and total assets are less than $500,000.
- File Form 990 if your organization's gross receipts are $200,000 or more, or its total assets are $500,000 or more at the end of the tax year.
- Form 990-PF - Private foundations, regardless of their financial size, must file Form 990-PF to report their financial activities and grant-making activities.
Is there a penalty for not filing Form 990?
Yes. An exempt organization that files IRS Form 990 after the deadline without reasonable cause may be subject to penalties imposed by the Internal Revenue Service.
| Organization Size | Penalty Per Day | Maximum Penalty |
|---|---|---|
| Gross receipts ≤ $1,309,500 | $25 per day | Lesser of $13,000 or 5% of gross receipts |
| Gross receipts > $1,309,500 | $130 per day | $65,000 per return |
The penalty applies for each day the return remains unfiled after the due date unless the organization can demonstrate reasonable cause for the delay. If you need more information about penalties, you can refer to our 990 penalty instructions page for detailed guidance.
Is Form 990 subject to public inspection and disclosure?
Yes, Form 990 is a public document that is subject to public inspection and disclosure. Anyone can request a copy from the IRS or access it through various online databases, such as Guidestaror the organization's website.
Additionally, the IRS makes these forms available to the public on its website.
What is unrelated business income?
How can I know my organization's exempt status?
What is the purpose of Schedule A in Form 990?
I need to amend my Form 990. What to do?
To amend your organization's previously filed 990 return, file a new return providing all the information and not just the new or corrected information. Also, check the “Amended return” box in Item B indicating you're filing an amended return.
You can amend all the information in your original Form 990 return except the organization's EIN.
Is IRS Form 990 searchable online?
In other words, you can search for the nonprofit’s Form 990 by entering their name or the EIN number through EIN Finder and viewing important information such as their finances, activities, and previous filings.
