Do you have an idea for a new venture with social benefits or environmental applications? You can set up as a for-profit entity — such as a C corporation, S corporation or limited liability company — with charitable functions. Or, if your key objectives are more altruistic, you may want to consider an alternative: forming a …
Got a “Business” Idea? You Might Want to Form a Nonprofit Read More »
The term “501(c)(3) organization” — which refers to the Internal Revenue Code section governing not-for-profit entities — often is used interchangeably with “public charity.” But not all 501(c)(3) organizations are public charities. Some are private foundations, and they’re subject to different tax rules. Individual and Family Charity A private foundation is a 501(c)(3) organization created by …
The tax-exempt status of a 501(c)(3) organization is its lifeblood. Without it, most not-for-profits couldn’t obtain the financial and other support they need to fulfill their mission. That’s why you need to protect your exempt status at all costs. 6 Violations Following is a brief overview of six common ways nonprofits’ tax-exempt status can be jeopardized …
Don’t Jeopardize Your Nonprofit’s Tax-Exempt Status Read More »
Your not-for-profit organization is probably assisted by volunteers who aren’t financially compensated. But your staff — including executives — are almost certainly paid a commensurate salary and benefits for their work. Compensation issues are always tricky, but they’re made more so by tax and legal requirements for nonprofits. Setting executive pay is particularly fraught because if …
If your not-for-profit focuses most of its fundraising energy on donors who can contribute to your mission and programs now, you may have neglected legacy gifts. Such gifts represent a portion of wealthy donors’ estates that go to your organization on their death. Legacy gifts can help position your nonprofit for sustained growth well into the …
Does your not-for-profit need to replace a departing board director — or add directors to better handle your growing organization’s governance work? Choose carefully, because although a well-qualified, enthusiastic board addition can help infuse the group with energy and fresh ideas, an unqualified one can create conflict and other problems. Here’s how a nonprofit board should …
All Aboard: Recruiting New Nonprofit Board Members Read More »
If your organization has met the IRS qualifications to be considered tax-exempt, the income you receive — such as donor contributions — is exempt from federal income tax. However, it’s still possible for not-for-profits to follow the rules and experience adverse tax consequences. Here are five potential tax traps that could catch you off guard. 1. …
If your not-for-profit organization operates on a calendar-year tax basis, the deadline for filing your year-end Form 990 (Form 990 EZ for certain small organizations) is May 15. Besides filing on time, you must ensure the information provided on your form is accurate. Pay particular attention to the following eight issues that commonly trip up nonprofits: …
Preparing Form 990: Pay Attention to These Eight Items Read More »
The 403(b) plan is often thought of as a 401(k) plan for nonprofits. It’s probably not the only option for your not-for-profit, but it can provide certain advantages over 401(k)s. Following is a brief rundown. Generous Contribution Limits A 403(b) plan is a tax-favored qualified retirement plan set up for employees of not-for-profit organizations, including charities, …
Revenue generated by 501(c)(3) organizations is generally exempt from federal income tax. But in some cases, your not-for-profit may incur unrelated business income tax (UBIT) on revenue. The good news is your annual tax return may offer some relief in the form of deductions. The list isn’t as long as the “ordinary and necessary business expenses” …