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Time is running out! If your nonprofit hasn’t filed IRS Form 990 yet, you must act now to avoid costly penalties, compliance issues, or even the loss of your tax-exempt status. The filing deadline varies depending on your organization’s fiscal year-end, but extensions may be available if you act quickly.
Failing to file on time can lead to severe consequences, including fines, revoked tax-exempt status, and reputational damage. Nonprofits rely on their exempt status to operate, fundraise, and serve their communities—don’t risk it by missing this critical deadline.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
✅ Key Form 990 deadlines based on your fiscal year
✅ How to request an extension if needed
✅ Penalties for late or missing filings
✅ Tips for filing accurately and efficiently
✅ Where to get help if you’re struggling to complete your return
Deadlines are approaching—don’t delay! Read on to ensure your nonprofit stays compliant and avoids unnecessary risks.
Why Form 990 Matters for Nonprofits
The IRS Form 990 is more than just a tax return—it’s a public document that provides transparency about your nonprofit’s finances, governance, and mission. The IRS uses it to ensure tax-exempt organizations comply with federal regulations, while donors, grantmakers, and watchdog groups (like Charity Navigator) use it to assess credibility.
Key Consequences of Missing the Deadline
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Automatic penalties (20/day,upto10,000 for larger organizations)
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Loss of tax-exempt status if filed more than three years late
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Inability to receive tax-deductible donations
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Damage to your nonprofit’s reputation
When Is Your Nonprofit’s Form 990 Due?
Your deadline depends on your fiscal year-end. Most nonprofits operate on a calendar year (December 31), but if your fiscal year differs, adjust accordingly.
Standard Filing Deadlines
| Fiscal Year-End | Form 990 Due Date |
|---|---|
| December 31 | May 15 (or next business day) |
| June 30 | November 15 |
| September 30 | February 15 |
Example: If your nonprofit’s fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, your Form 990 is due by November 15, 2024.
What If You Need More Time?
You can request a 6-month extension by filing Form 8868 before your original deadline. However, this does not excuse late filings—it only gives you extra time if submitted on time.
Which Form 990 Should Your Nonprofit File?
Not all nonprofits file the same version of Form 990. The IRS requires different forms based on your organization’s annual revenue:
| Form | Who Must File |
|---|---|
| Form 990-N (e-Postcard) | Gross receipts ≤ $50,000 |
| Form 990-EZ | Gross receipts < 200,000∗∗ANDassets∗∗<500,000 |
| Full Form 990 | Gross receipts ≥ 200,000∗∗ORassets∗∗≥500,000 |
| Form 990-PF | Private foundations (regardless of revenue) |
Pro Tip: Even if your nonprofit had no activity, you may still need to file a 990-N to stay compliant.
How to File Form 990 (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Gather Required Documents
Before filing, ensure you have:
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Financial statements (balance sheet, income statement)
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Board member names & compensation details (if applicable)
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Program service accomplishments (to report your impact)
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List of key employees & contractors
2. Choose Your Filing Method
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Electronic Filing (Recommended): The IRS requires most nonprofits to e-file. Use an IRS-approved e-filer (like Tax990, A2Z Filings, or ExpressTaxExempt).
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Paper Filing (Limited Cases): Only certain organizations (like those with religious exemptions) can still file by mail.
3. Submit Before the Deadline
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Double-check all data to avoid rejections or audits.
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Keep a copy for your records.
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Request an extension (if needed) via Form 8868.
What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?
1. IRS Penalties
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**20/daylatefee∗∗(upto10,000 for larger orgs)
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Automatic revocation if unfiled for 3 consecutive years
2. Loss of Tax-Exempt Status
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Donors can’t deduct contributions
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Your nonprofit may owe back taxes
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Reinstatement requires reapplying (Form 1023/1024) + fees
3. Reputational Harm
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Donors & grantmakers may hesitate to fund a non-compliant nonprofit.
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Watchdog sites (like ProPublica) publicize late filers.
Need Help Filing? Where to Get Support
If you’re overwhelmed, consider:
✔ Nonprofit CPAs (specialized in tax-exempt orgs)
✔ Form 990 Software (Tax990, A2Z Filings)
✔ IRS Free File Tool (for 990-N filers)
✔ State nonprofit associations (often offer workshops)
Pro Tip: Some accounting firms offer discounted rates for nonprofits—ask before hiring!
Final Reminder: Don’t Wait Until It’s Too Late!
The Form 990 deadline is non-negotiable—missing it puts your nonprofit at serious risk. If you haven’t filed yet:
🚀 File immediately (or request an extension via Form 8868)
📊 Double-check your numbers to avoid errors
💡 Seek professional help if you’re unsure
Your tax-exempt status is too valuable to lose—take action today!