What Are Form 990 Filings?
Every tax‑exempt organization must report its financials and activities to the IRS annually through the Form 990 series.
Form 990‑N: For small nonprofits with gross receipts normally under $50,000.
Form 990‑EZ: For organizations with gross receipts under $200,000 and total assets under $500,000.
Full Form 990: For larger organizations with gross receipts or assets exceeding those thresholds.
Form 990-PF: Required for all private foundations, regardless of size, reporting investments, grants, and excise taxes.
Form 990-T: Filed by any exempt organization with $1,000+ in unrelated business income, reporting taxable activities.
These filings provide a snapshot of your mission, programs, governance, and finances. They are public documents, viewed by donors, regulators, and the media. The due date is the 15th day of the 5th month after your fiscal year ends (May 15th, for calendar‑year filers).
Why Accurate, Timely Filing Matters
Avoid Penalties
The IRS assesses $20 per day for late or incomplete returns, up to $10,500 or 5% of your gross receipts for smaller organizations.
Protect Your Tax‑Exempt Status
Fail to file for three consecutive years and your exemption is automatically revoked. Reinstatement requires a new application and user fee.
Maintain Public Trust
Inaccurate or incomplete information can raise red flags with donors and Grantmakers. Transparent reporting builds confidence in your stewardship.
Stay Compliant Across Jurisdictions
Many state regulators, including Washington’s Attorney General and Secretary of State, monitor 990 filings to ensure compliance with charitable solicitation laws.
Our Form Preparation Service
Centioli Compliance Services takes the stress out of IRS reporting.
We provide administrative support to ensure your filings are complete, accurate, and on time:
Form Determination & Deadline Tracking: We confirm which form you’re required to file and integrate your due date into your compliance calendar, with advance reminders.
Data Gathering & Organization: We send you a checklist of required information (program narratives, board lists, financials) and help compile it in the right format.
Clear Preparation: We draft the return in clear language, ensuring all schedules and attachments are included. We translate IRS jargon so you understand what’s being reported.
Internal Review: Before filing, we share the draft with your board or finance committee, incorporating any feedback and ensuring required signatures are obtained.
Electronic Filing & Confirmation: We can help you submit the return electronically and provide confirmation receipts for your records. We coordinate with your accountant or CPA for any tax‑specific questions.
Recordkeeping & Follow‑Up: We store the filed return in your digital document archive and note any future changes in IRS guidance or thresholds that may affect your next filing.
Why Work With Centioli Compliance Services?
Nonprofit‑Focused Expertise: We specialize in small and mid‑sized Washington nonprofits, so we understand the nuances of the Form 990 and state charity requirements.
Predictable Pricing: Form preparation can be included in our Standard, Professional, or Premium nonprofit packages, or added as a standalone service.
Integration With Your Compliance Calendar: Your IRS deadline, along with all other filings, appears on your calendar with automated reminders.
Collaboration With Your Accountant: If you already work with a CPA, we can coordinate data and ensure consistency across financial statements and tax filings.