041: Nonprofit Basics: Federal Tax Filing Deadlines and Penalties

Welcome to EO Radio Show – Your Nonprofit Legal Resource. This episode focuses on the importance of meeting the federal tax filing deadlines that apply to charitable organizations. Most charitable organizations that are exempt from income tax are required to file a federal return on the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of their fiscal year. So for nonprofits that use the calendar year for accounting purposes, that is May 15. If you haven't filed yet, don't despair. Filing for an extension is fairly easy. I'll also touch on what penalties can apply if your organization fails to meet these filing requirements. Resources: Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax Form 990-EZ, Short Form Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax See Filing Phase-In for more information about which return to file Form 990-N (e-Postcard), Annual Electronic Filing Requirement for Small Exempt Organizations Form 8868 Tax Relief in Disaster Situations Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief for Individuals and Businesses Revenue Procedure 2014-11 - explains the four procedures an organization may use to apply for reinstatement If you have suggestions for topics you would like us to discuss, please email us at [email protected].  Additional episodes can be found at EORadioShowByFarella.com.  DISCLAIMER: This podcast is for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to be, nor should it be interpreted as, legal advice or opinion.