How to Keep Your Nonprofit Compliant: Annual Filings Made Simple

Maintaining your nonprofit’s tax-exempt status isn’t just about doing good work — it’s also about staying compliant with federal and state regulations. Missing a filing deadline or submitting incomplete documents can put your organization at risk, including fines, penalties, or even loss of 501(c)(3) status.

The good news? Staying compliant is easier than you think once you understand what’s required and avoid common pitfalls. Here’s a simple guide.

1. IRS Form 990: The Nonprofit’s Annual Report

The Form 990 is the IRS’s primary tool for ensuring nonprofits operate transparently.

What you need to know:

• There are different versions: 990, 990-EZ, and 990-N (e-Postcard).

  • 990-N: For nonprofits with gross receipts under $50,000.

  • 990-EZ: For organizations with receipts under $200,000 and assets under $500,000.

  • Full 990: For larger nonprofits.

• Deadlines: Due 4.5 months after the fiscal year ends (e.g., May 15 for a calendar year).

• Information required includes: financials, governance details, programs, and executive compensation.

Common mistakes:

• Missing signatures or incomplete schedules.

• Incorrect revenue reporting.

• Filing the wrong version for your nonprofit’s size.

✅ Tip: Keep accurate, organized financial records throughout the year to make filing easier and faster.

2. State Filings

Beyond the IRS, most states require nonprofits to submit annual reports, registrations, and charitable solicitation forms.

Typical requirements include:

• Annual report to your state’s Secretary of State (confirm your nonprofit remains “active” in the state).

• Charitable solicitation registration if you solicit donations from the public.

• State tax filings or exemptions, depending on your state.

Common mistakes:

• Missing deadlines for annual reports or registration renewals.

• Failing to renew charitable solicitation permits before fundraising events.

• Not updating your nonprofit’s contact or leadership information.

✅ Tip: Create a state compliance calendar to track deadlines and required documents for every jurisdiction where you operate.

3. Other Compliance Considerations

In addition to IRS and state filings, consider:

• Employment tax filings if you have staff.

• Maintaining corporate records like bylaws, minutes, and board resolutions.

• Updating your conflict-of-interest and whistleblower policies annually.

Common mistakes:

• Overlooking small compliance items like meeting minutes.

• Not documenting policy updates or board approvals.

✅ Tip: A simple filing system — physical or digital — ensures all records are easy to access during audits or reviews.

4. Tools and Best Practices

• Automated reminders: Set calendar alerts for all federal and state filing deadlines.

• Checklists: Maintain a checklist for each filing type to ensure nothing is missed.

• Professional support: Consider working with experts to double-check filings and reduce risk of errors.

  
  

Compliance doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding IRS and state requirements, keeping accurate records, and staying organized, your nonprofit can focus on what really matters — serving your mission.

At All Things Business, we help nonprofits stay compliant year-round with IRS filings, state registrations, and governance best practices. Let us handle the paperwork so you can focus on impact.

👉 Need help keeping your nonprofit compliant? Contact us today and ensure your organization stays in good standing with both the IRS and your state.