Nonprofit Law Basics: Do Nonprofits File Tax Returns? What is a 990?

A calendar close-up with the 15th circled in red, symbolizing a crucial deadline for nonprofit lawyers seeking legal help.

Most nonprofit organizations are required to file annual reporting returns with the IRS. Even though tax-exempt nonprofit organizations do not pay federal taxes (that is what “tax-exempt” means), most do have to file an informational return with the IRS. This annual reporting return is called a Form 990…