Start Your Nonprofit

You may have been thinking lately that even though it’s a new year, there really hasn’t been anything new about it. You’re still doing the same things as last year, or still catching up from last month because of the holidays. 

There’s a popular meme spreading around social media now that states, “My New Year Officially Begins February 1st.” And while it’s meant to be funny, it can actually be a legit statement - just because they’re called “New Year’s Resolutions,” doesn’t mean they have to happen at the start of the year. You can change things for yourself at any time of year.

So let’s say this is the year you want to start your nonprofit, but you’re already falling a month behind. With everything it takes to build a nonprofit, you might as well try again next year, right? Wrong. After researching what’s needed for a nonprofit, you can basically break it down into three major goals.

Goal 1 - Get Started
You already have a vision of how and why your organization operates. You have friendly supporters and a small group of like-minded advisors providing direction similar to a board. Get with these people and write-up the mission statement for your nonprofit. It should detail the work your organization does and why it’s important, and encompass the basics of your board of directors like first principles, key duties, accountability, etc.

Your statement needs to be as complete as possible - not a task done very quickly. You could allow yourself from the first of January to the last day of April to finish. You may not need the entire four months, but you’ll still have ample time if you get started late.

Goal 2 - State Incorporation
Your organization will need to be created within the your state’s laws - these are essentially the same laws and regulations that apply to any business operation; however, specific terms and conditions could differently affect your nonprofit, which could cause delays. Like creating the mission statement, this isn’t a job completed overnight. From May to the end of August, two months can be for finishing all the paperwork, while the other two are for processing. Or you could personally allocate the division of time based on your specific situation.

Goal 3 - Apply for Exemption Status
The Internal Revenue Code (IRC) allows corporations with specific purposes to apply for tax-exempt status. If approved, these corporations typically become recognized as Section 501(c)(3) organizations. You’ll need to file Form 1023, but to properly complete the form, you need to have the first two goals accomplished.

The last four months of the year should be more than enough time to have your exemption application filed and processed. Before filing, you’ll need to already have the following:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Organizing Document (Article of Incorporation, Trust Agreement, or Articles of Association, Constitution, Bylaws or Other Similar Organizing Documents
• Section 501(c)(3) Purpose and Dissolution Clause Verification (Included in Organizing Document)
• Form 2848, Authorized Representative Verification (if applicable)
• Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization

Keep in mind that these estimated time periods are to coincide with a fictional resolution of starting a nonprofit within a year - depending on your state requirements, or how long it takes your tax professional to handle your forms, it could take a much longer time than depicted in this scenario.

Getting your nonprofit recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization is only half the battle - the rest is maintaining your status. Let us help you get your required 990 forms transmitted to the IRS. With ExpressTaxExempt, our simple “Q&A” format allows you to successfully complete your tax return by answering interview-style questions - no photocopies or blank PDFs of complicated IRS forms here. Our live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina are professionals with the e-filing process. If you have any questions or need assistance, call at (704) 839-2321. We’re available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or email us at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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The Volunteer Experience

For many nonprofit organizations, volunteers are an essential part of the day-to-day operations. In some ways, volunteers can prove to be just as vital as donors, if not more. You may have the resources to offer a service, but volunteers are your means of properly executing that service. Whether your nonprofit is small or large, any exempt organization can benefit from having volunteers. But are your volunteers benefiting from your organization?

Do your volunteers know what to do once they arrive to help? Are they showing up during a set schedule, or are they allowed to come and go? Do they regularly feel that there’s nothing to do, or are they unsure what to work on next? The experience your volunteers have with your organization can greatly impact future volunteering, monetary support, and even your nonprofit’s reputation.

Here are a few ways you can easily enhance the experience of your organization’s volunteers:

Organization Website
It all starts by getting volunteer information to those who are interested. As soon as a viewer enters your web page, they should be able to get that information effortlessly. Your volunteer registration form should ask the following information:

• Contact name/info
• Reason for volunteering
• Any physical constraints
• Education or special training
• Professional/volunteer experience
• Personal interest or hobbies

What may seem like extraneous information will actually help you give volunteers tasks based on their set of skills. When the volunteer is excited with what they’re doing, it’s more likely they’ll continue with their support. But signing up isn’t the only important thing. Make sure your website displays volunteering impact, available opportunities, coordinator contact info, guidelines, and release forms. Videos, photos, or testimonials from previous volunteers would be a nice touch as well.

Schedule, Communicate, & Prepare
After your volunteer has registered, communicate with them on a regular basis. They should know where to be, what to bring, and what to expect. You can personally ensure that your volunteers understand the guidelines, know their schedules, and are aware of their duties and responsibilities.

Volunteer Day (V-Day)
The most critical part of the entire experience - this should be no different than the first day of a new employee, board member, or important donor. Here a some suggested guidelines:

• Provide distinct instruction and expectation before volunteers arrive
• Have a leadership member greet volunteers and escort them to the volunteering area (room, section, hub, etc.)
• Have the volunteer coordinator share details of the organization - including the need for volunteers
• Demonstrate what volunteers will be doing over the course of their scheduled time
• Let volunteers work
• Allow the necessary work breaks
• Take a photo or video of volunteers working
• Allow the volunteers to mitigate back in the volunteer area
• Inquire about today’s experience, thank volunteers for their time, and let them leave

Recognition - The Follow-Up
Within 24 hours, you should follow up with your volunteers with either a “Thank You” call or email. Any photos or videos can be posted on social media along with public acknowledgement of the group and volunteer support. Even if you already asked, you may still want to inquire about their experience. Sending electronic surveys to your volunteers can provide feedback or insight.

Follow-ups can also be used to request donations. Studies have shown that volunteers give ten times more in donations than non-volunteers - a reason why your volunteer experience should be top-notch to begin with. Any volunteering program your organization has in place should be as crucial as bringing in new donors. Not only does it reflect upon your organization’s reputation, but those volunteers could become your next major donors. And while you’re focused on that, let us make filing your tax-exempt returns as easy as possible.

With ExpressTaxExempt, our built-in audit check scans your information entered for any possible errors that could cause a rejection - so you can transmit an accurate form the first time around. If your 990 form is still rejected, you can make corrections and re-transmit it at no extra charge.

Look no further for the most comprehensive help in the industry to assist with your e-filing process. Our live technical support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina is available for any questions or assistance with e-filing our tax-exempt forms. Contact us at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We also offer 24/7 support through email at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Nonprofit Showcase (Halfway There Rescue)

As there is a need to help our fellow man, there is also an urgency to help the animals that coexist with us on this beautiful planet. While all animals on Earth are important indeed, it’s the companion animals that the majority of people interact or have had experience with. Known also as pets, these animals - such as dogs or cats - can provide physical and emotional benefits like daily exercise and social interaction.

In the Charlotte, North Carolina area, there are dogs and cats, within overcrowded shelters, longing for the love from a happy, permanent home. Halfway There Rescue has embodied that situation and made it their mission to rescue, foster, transport, and provide homes for neglected companion animals.

Founded by Rock Hill’s own dog rescue enthusiast, Sarah Lewis, Halfway There Rescue is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that is operated entirely through the resounding efforts of volunteers. Since February 2012, they have helped nearly 2,000 dogs, puppies, cats, and kittens find happy, loving homes - all with no paid staff or owned facilities.

Halfway There Rescue serves both states of the Carolinas; their primary outreach is within Mecklenburg, York, Lancaster, and Chester counties. The organization has established direct relationships with shelters and animal control centers to bring in dogs and cats before euthanization. In rare situations, Halfway There Rescue may obtain owner surrenders; however, work is typically done through shelter systems.

“Adoption is the loving option,” and the awesome volunteers of Halfway There Rescue make it possible for the Carolinas to take home these adorable, loving creatures as one of their own. Through its exemplary efforts and humane contributions, Halfway There Rescue shines as our nonprofit showcase of the month.

Information about how you can volunteer or adopt can be found on the Halfway There Rescue website.

Nonprofits can be geared towards humans or animals - either way ExpressTaxExempt has your exempt organization covered with tax-exempt federal filings required by the IRS. We offer simple solutions to e-file your 990 form quickly, accurately, and securely. You won’t even have to leave your furry companion to sit in front of a computer - download our FREE mobile app to transmit a Form 990-N (e-Postcard) or Extension Form 8868 wherever you and your companion may be.

Our tax forms are made easy, but let us make your e-filing experience as pleasant as possible. Contact our live support team - located in Rock Hill, South Carolina - at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.EST or email us 24/7 at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Boost Fundraising Through Crowdfunding

As the future of crowdfunding is becoming more promising, there are many nonprofits and charities that are realizing the potential of incorporating crowdfunding within their fundraising efforts. To keep it short and sweet, crowdfunding uses an online platform in which anyone can easily contribute a donation with just a few clicks of the mouse. With some sites, you can even set donation levels, give prizes at certain amounts, and create teams.

When used properly crowdfunding can produce revenue greater than traditional fundraising means. But it’s not as simple as creating a page and then reaping the rewards - nothing is ever that easy. For your fundraiser to be successful through crowdfunding, there is a level of effort required to get your campaign seen and heard. And with these three steps, you can build a solid campaign or save an existing one.

Step 1 - Set Clear Goals
Keep in mind - this isn’t a get rich quick scheme, or get funds rather. Hundreds of thousands of dollars aren’t going to miraculously fall into your organization simply because you kicked-off a crowdfunder. And while you’re probably thinking “It’s possible,” the point is that asking for “hundreds of thousands of dollars” won’t yield favorable results.

The best outcomes are going to come from setting a reasonable amount to reach, a clear deadline to reach that amount, and stating how the money will be used. Keep your expectations grounded, and your goals realistic. Worst case scenario - you raise much more funds than you thought you would because the goal was set low.

Step 2 - Nurture Your Campaign
This cannot be stressed enough; you can’t just create your crowdfunding event and then casually go about your business… This fundraiser is your business! Get the word, and the link, out to your donors, to your volunteers, to everyone. In hindsight, all of your regular contributors should know about your campaign weeks before it goes live so they can initiate donations.

A little notice here and there isn’t going to do too well. Get creative on how you get the word to others. The donation page is already created, so what are 101 ways you can share a URL link to people? For some helpful and easy tips to promote your campaign, check out our blog:
Promote Holiday Giving

Step 3 - Use Social Media
It should come as no surprise that social media plays a part in the marketing or promoting of anything. If big name businesses and Fortune 500 companies are using it, then why should you shun away from it? Crowdfunding and social media are like two sides of the same coin.

Create a plan to engage with your followers on a regular basis, or organize online contests with a prize to get people donating. Studies have shown that Facebook can increase crowdfunding donations by 350 percent - how’s that for some serious motivation?

Crowdfunding can work as a great alternative to traditional fundraising, if you know what you’re doing. And with those significant donations pouring in, you have to report it all come tax season. That’s where we make it easy for you; ExpressTaxExempt offers the most simplistic way to report contributions from fundraising events with your Form 990. Not only that - it will automatically subtract any expenses entered from your event and factor the net income into your overall, total revenue.

Learn step-by-step how to report fundraising events with ExpressTaxExempt.

For more assistance, or for questions in regard to e-filing any of our available 990 forms, our live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina can help with the filing process. We’re available at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or email us anytime from anywhere at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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5 Stages of Exempt Organizations

From conception to execution, it’s a beautiful sight to behold all of your efforts coming together to establish a nonprofit or a charity organization. And once your organization meets the requirements of Internal Revenue Code section 501(a), it can become exempt from federal income taxation.

Becoming tax-exempt doesn’t happen overnight and maintaining your exemption status takes even more dedication and a thorough understanding of IRS compliance - enough that it may detract from your organizational duties. Don’t let that deter you from succeeding with your organization. You can find numerous online sources that can detail running an exempt organization and keeping up with your exempt filings.

Over the course of operating your exempt organization, you’ll get familiar with the intersecting points where you are responsible for tasks mandated by the IRS, or even the state. These points, or stages, are also referred to as the life cycle of an exempt organization.

Stage 1 - Starting Out
There are a number of things you need to have accomplished before you can even dream about being tax-exempt. Your organization has to be created under state law, an Employer Identification Number (EIN) must be issued, and your appropriate federal tax classification must also be determined.

See how to forge your beginning with our blog:
Becoming a Nonprofit or Tax-Exempt Organization

Stage 2 - Applying for Exemption
To obtain recognition of exemption from federal income tax, you are required to file Form 1023; The IRS Form 1023 is categorized as the Application for Recognition of Exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. Not as simple as you may think - before you even begin, you must have these items:

• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Organizing Document (Article of Incorporation, Trust Agreement, or Articles of Association, Constitution, Bylaws or Other Similar Organizing Documents
• Section 501(c)(3) Purpose and Dissolution Clause Verification (Included in Organizing Document)
• Form 2848, Authorized Representative Verification (if applicable)
• Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization

More information about the Section 501(c)(3) application can be found here:
A Form 1023 Thanksgiving

Stage 3 - Required Filings
Getting your exemption status is one thing, maintaining your exemption status is another. You are required to file your tax-exempt returns with the IRS each year.

• Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - Exempt organizations with less than $50,000 in gross receipts
• Form 990-EZ - Exempt organizations with less than $200,000 in gross receipts, and total assets less than $500,000
• Form 990 (Long) - Exempt organizations with gross receipts greater than or equal to $200,000, or total assets greater than or equal to $500,000

You can learn about the 990 series tax forms from another one of our insightful blogs:
ExpressTaxExempt - #1 for Tax-Exempt 990 Forms

Stage 4 - Ongoing Compliance
There are basic guidelines of governance that should be instilled your organization - even if it’s operated differently from the next. You have disclosure requirements, employment taxes, and ways to avoid risking, or worse - losing, your exempt status. And it’s been proven how governance guidelines can link to how tax compliant your organization is.

Check on how compliant your governance practice could be with our blog:
Compliant or Not Compliant

Stage 5 - Significant Events
These could be your organization’s “be all, end all” moments, and can include audits, private letter rulings, and termination procedures. Nothing is meant to last too long - but if you’re on top of your financial responsibilities and IRS compliance, these events should be few and far in-between.

Know the key areas of a standard audit review with our two blogs:
Legal Audits pt.1
Legal Audits pt.2

We understand how demanding federal paperwork can be, and how it can take away precious time from strengthening the impact of your organization - which is why we offer quick and simple e-filing solutions specifically for exempt organizations. ExpressTaxExempt offers secure e-filing; your information is transmitted directly to the IRS and no one else. And your information is securely stored within our cloud-based servers that you can safely access from anywhere, anytime.

Contact our live, supportive team of e-filing professionals if you have questions or need further assistance with your e-filing experience; we’re happy to help! Call us at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or email us at any given time of day, even on weekends, at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Tales from the Nonprofit

There’s nothing better than a good story - except maybe food and a good story. But even without the food, a story has it’s own worth. A great story can stir emotions, create a call to action, or simply entertain. For nonprofits and charities, a story can inspire to give. Of course we don’t mean just any story, but a story of the work done by your organization that has influenced or helped others within the community.

As much work as your organization accomplishes, there’s probably a story or fascinating experience for every staff member or volunteer. Ironically, the most challenging part of sharing these stories is first finding them. Here are some ways to boost your organization’s storytelling to share with donors.

Be Specific

• You need to know exactly what kind of story you’re looking to share from your programs - broadly asking for any story will give you just that. And your staff member or volunteer may have numerous unique experiences within the nonprofit per day. Help them select the best choice by requesting for a specific story.

Stories at Staff Meetings

• Can’t make rounds to everyone? Take a few minutes during regular staff meetings and ask your members to share a special, impressionable, or surprising moment from the previous week. The entire story doesn’t have to be told at that very moment - just a minute or two. You can meet up with the member later to gather details. This will allow you to get great stories straight from the source rather than spending the day randomly going from person to person.

Strategic Listening

• Another way to find great stories is to simply listen to what is going on around you. And no, we don’t mean eavesdropping, or what we affectionately refer to in our office as “ear hustling,” but instead to pay close attention to the many conversations you have with your staff and volunteers each day. Listen well and strategically ask questions that reveal further information.

Story Submission

• Maybe the problem isn’t coming up with stories, but rather what to do with them. With so much to do, your staff can’t possibly drop everything to express a worthy experience. A paper or online form can allow anyone to quickly submit their story. You can find online resources about creating forms.

Show Them the Way

• A great way to get others to openly express themselves is for you to openly express yourself. Share your own stories of the donors you speak with, the people you’ve helped, or any thoughtful, impressionable moments. Not only does it add value to the relationships of those working around you, but it also establishes connections to those who graciously fund your programs.

Getting your organization’s message and efforts known by the masses is a team effort, but sharing more stories can lead to more donations, allowing you to make even more of an impact in our world.

So while your nonprofit or charity is out changing the world, let us help you with our tax-exempt returns and extension forms made easy. With ExpressTaxExempt, you can e-file your 990 forms and extensions faster and more accurately than with paper filing. With our easy, online interview process, we lead you from start to finish with helpful prompts and step-by-step instructions to e-file your annual tax-exempt return.

Link up with our live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina, for questions or further assistance. We’re available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST at (704) 839-2321. Or contact us 24/7 at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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ExpressTaxExempt - #1 for Tax-Exempt 990 Forms

The new year brings in new beginnings, and in the wonderful world of taxes, a brand new calendar tax year along with a new set of deadlines. Unlike other tax due dates that happen relatively early in the year, nonprofits, charities, and other exempt organizations have a bit of breathing room. 

But don’t slack - the May 15 deadline can quickly creep up on you. Whether you’re a certified public accountant (CPA) filing for multiple organizations, or a lone, primary officer responsible for your exemption status, ExpressTaxExempt is your #1 online solution for everything tax-exempt and supports all the forms you need.

Form 990-N (e-Postcard)
Who is Eligible to File: You must e-file a Form 990-N (e-Postcard) if your organization typically has gross receipts of less than $50,000 per year. The exception to the rule only applies to organizations that are in group returns; churches and their integrated auxiliaries, conventions, or associations of churches, or organizations that need to file a different return.

About the Form: The Form 990-N (e-Postcard) has to be done online - there’s no paper form. There also aren’t any schedules to complete, and you can’t file an extension for it. You’ll need the required eight pieces of information to successfully e-file Form 990-N (e-Postcard):

• Employer Identification Number (EIN)
• Tax Year
• Legal Name & Address
• Different Names Used By The Organization, if applicable
• Website, if applicable
• Name & Address Of A Principal Officer
• Confirmation Of Gross Receipts Of $50,000 Or Less
• A Statement That The Organization Is Going Out Of Business, if applicable

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt: You can e-file your Form 990-N (e-Postcard) for FREE for the current 2015 tax year, and you can also e-file for 2014 and 2013 for $9.90 per return!

Form 990-EZ
Who is Eligible to File: A Form 990-EZ is required from organizations with gross receipts over $50,000, but less $200,000 and total assets less than $500,000.

About the Form: The essential part of the Form 990-EZ lies within its Schedules. Each Schedule is meant to provide the IRS with information regarding specific activities within your exempt organization. You may not have to file every Schedule for your organization.

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt: You can e-file your Form 990-EZ for the current 2015 tax year, 2014, and 2013 starting at $99.95 per return!

Form 990 (Long)
Who is Eligible to File: Filing a Form 990 (Long) means that your organization has gross receipts that are greater than $200,000 and total assets greater than $500,000.

About the Form: Much like the Form 990-EZ, the bulk of Form 990 (Long) also comes from the number of Schedules that need to be filed along with it. Each exempt organization is unique, and you might not have to file as many Schedules as the next one.

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt: You can e-file your Form 990 (Long) for the current 2015 tax year and also for the 2014 tax year starting at $299.95 per return!

Extension Form 8868
Who is Eligible to File: If you need to extend the deadline for filing either a Form 990 (Long) or Form 990-EZ, you can e-file a Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time to File an Exempt Organization Return.

About the Form: Extension Form 8868 is broken down into two parts. With Part I, you can e-file for an automatic 3-month extension, and with Part II, you can e-file for an additional, non-automatic 3-month extension.

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt: You can e-file your Extension Form 8868 for the current 2015 tax year and the 2014 tax year for $14.95 per return!

Form 1023 (Coming Soon)
About the Form: The section 501(c)(3) application, known as Form 1023, is needed from any organization that is applying for exempt recognition from federal income tax. Once your organization is approved, you’ll receive a written confirmation of your tax-exempt status from the IRS.

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt: You can use our highly-rated features to fully complete a Form 1023. Once you are done, you can download your completed form directly to your computer, print it out, and mail it to the IRS.

For your exempt tax returns, no matter if you operate on a calendar or fiscal tax year, your tax deadline will always be on the 15th day of 5th month after your tax end date with the option to extend if you choose to. And with ExpressTaxExempt, you can re-transmit any rejected forms at no extra charge.

We pride ourselves on how easy we’ve made e-filing for exempt organizations, but we understand that taxes are no sweet stroll in the park. So if you have any questions or need some assistance, our helpful, friendly live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina is ready to assist you with your e-file experience. Feel free to call us at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or send us an email 24/7 at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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A Nonprofit New Year

It’s the start of a brand new year, and you probably have a laundry list of goals that you want to get completed, some policies you might want to change, and things that will make your nonprofit more efficient. With all the resolutions and changes you want to implement this year, the most important one is so far beyond your radar it’ll sound appalling when you first hear, but perfect once you understand it.

*trumpet fanfare* 2016 New Year’s Resolution: Do Less

You read that correct - absolutely!

Now we’re not talking about becoming lethargic (as if anyone in the nonprofit community knows of being lethargic) - to “do less” means to focus only on the most important tasks. Scratch off anything that comes across small in the grand scheme of things - a trivial meeting, a less-than-stellar grant, or a minimal event.

You may have a great idea for an event or something, or your whole staff has no problem coming up with ideas to raise money. But when the execution of these ideas falls flat, we claim lack of money, resources, or time when actually it’s the fact that everyone was spread out too thin.

If each person on your staff focused their time, energy, and resources towards the most essential things your nonprofit needs, you’ll find that the efficient means are there - just maybe not enough for an extra fundraiser, grant proposal, or a team pow-wow.

Sacrifice is the name of the game, but it can yield some amazing results. Anything that is last-minute shouldn’t even remain on your scope because if it was something essential to the life of the nonprofit, it wouldn’t be a last-minute thing to get done.

With so much to do, how can I do less?
Let’s take fundraising, for example. Every month, or however often, your organization attempts to bring in donations by having an event. As soon as one is done, resources are channeled towards the next one. Instead, let’s invest a significant amount of effort towards properly thanking those who have donated before. Why? To have them donate regularly, thus having to fundraise less.

Do you find yourself trying to score every grant that shows up? You can either put in the sufficient effort towards one large grant, or aim for many small grants that don’t require much effort, but can add up closely to a large grant.

Be progressive. You don’t have to drop many things at once. Start with just one thing to completely stop doing, and as time goes on, drop another thing if possible. “Less is more,” as the saying goes, and by focusing on the “major” goals instead of “every” goal, you’ll notice your nonprofit accomplish more of the work that matters most.

And speaking of work that matters most, don’t let yourself get too tied up filing your tax-exempt returns. Let ExpressTaxExempt help you with our exempt forms made easy. We support Form 990-N (e-Postcard), Form 990-EZ, and Form 990 (Long), which you can e-file quicker, easier, and with far less mistakes than paper filing.

Our live support professionals in Rock Hill, South Carolina are on stand-by to lend assistance at any point of your e-filing experience. For questions, concerns, or further help, give us a call at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We also accept emails at any time of the day with our 24/7 email support at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Nonprofit Showcase (Children’s Attention Home)

It’s 1969, a desperate time in history when abused, neglected, and homeless children had no options other than foster care. These homes were limited, and soon these victimized children were placed in jail cells because of no appropriate emergency shelters. Even still, there wasn’t enough to provide for the impoverished children.

- Rock Hill, South Carolina. 1970 -
In a calm neighborhood near Winthrop University, a house was rented, renovated, and opened its doors to devoid children as a haven of support and shelter. Because of the diligent efforts of the Rock Hill Ministerial Association and countless volunteers, donations of clothes, toys, and essentials were greatly generated for the children in need. The Children’s Attention Home became a beacon of “a strong commitment to community service and a genuine spirit of unity and mutual interest in the welfare of the children.”

Today, the Children’s Attention Home has kept its doors open to over 7,500 children. The objective of this nonprofit organization is to temporarily provide a care shelter, which children - up to age 21 - can experience a family life of love and security until either their previous home is corrected, or a better, permanent home is found.

The Children’s Attention Home has accomplished its objective for the last 45 years along with its mission to give children a stable home setting, opportunities for success, and tools to form their own futures and better the world for others as well as themselves.

Three cottages, licensed by the South Carolina Department of Social Services, make up the main campus of the Children’s Attention Home, which can house up to 42 children at a time. Children stay at the Home for an average of three to six months, though there have been circumstances when children are advised to stay longer. While living at the Home, children are taught basic living skills, job skills, and take part in other physical, educational, and recreational activities.

With the support from local donors and volunteers, the Children’s Attention Home continues to serve victimized children from all counties of South Carolina. And with that, we are proud to present Children’s Attention Home as our nonprofit showcase for the month - Thank You.

More information about Children’s Attention Home can be found through the organization’s website including how you can become involved, and emergency crisis contacts.

There’s no doubt how bountiful the generosity and assistance of nonprofits and charities are. The last thing needed is to have your work limited by paperwork or tax filings. E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt is made quick and easy so you can fulfill your obligations to the IRS and get back to what matters most within your exempt organization. Our services offer support for the 990 filing series, extension Form 8868, and soon Form 1023, which you can file for exemption status.

Just how nonprofits and charities help local communities, our live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina can help you with your e-file experience. If you have any questions, or need further assistance e-filing your return, give us a call at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. You can also reach us at any time of day with our 24/7 email support at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Happy Holidays from ExpressTaxExempt

“It’s the most wonderful time of the year…”

And it’s definitely been a memorable year for us here at ExpressTaxExempt - all because of you. Now is the time for celebration, a time for family and friends, and a time of reflection; we made it through another amazing year. Christmas Day is this Friday along with New Year’s Day coming within the following week, and while each of you are celebrating in your own unique ways, don’t forget that December 31 is the official end of the 2015 tax year, if your organization operates on a calendar tax year.

Until then, you can still make substantial moves that can be applied to your current tax year. Are you still receiving gifts and contributions for the month? Check out our “Gifts and Contributions” blog about how you can easily list all your received donations with ExpressTaxExempt. Get a head start for the upcoming tax season by uploading your entire list at once with our “Bulk Upload” feature.

Plan on running your holiday campaign up to the final hour of the year? We have some fascinating tips that can help your holiday fundraiser gain some considerable exposure. With our “Promote Holiday Giving” blog, you can find out how to maximize your donations during this gracious time of year. And don’t forget about the IRS e-file blackout that’s on December 26; if you have any tax returns that need to be e-filed this month, make sure they’re completed soon. You can learn more from our recent “IRS MeF Maintenance (Blackout)” blog.

As the current tax year comes to a close, another is right over the horizon along with another exciting tax season. ExpressTaxExempt supports these tax-exempt return forms:

• Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - Exempt organizations with gross receipts less than $50,000.
• Form 990-EZ - Exempt organizations with gross receipts greater than $50,000, but less than $200,000 and total assets less than $500,000.
• Form 990 (Long) - Exempt organizations with gross receipts greater than $200,000 and total assets greater than $500,000.
• Extension Form 8868 - Part I (Automatic 3-Month Extension) Part II (Additional, Non-Automatic 3-Month Extension.

Coming soon is our support for Form 1023, Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, for organizations that are seeking tax-exemption status. With our new service, you can fully complete your Form 1023, download, print, and mail to the IRS.

During this joyous season, we will also properly observe the holidays, and be with friends and family as well. Our office will be closed on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day with only limited email support through support@expresstaxexempt.com. Other than those days, you can expect our office to remain operational during our normal business hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, Monday through Friday.

If you have questions, or need assistance with the e-filing process, give our bells a ring at (704) 839-2321. We wish you all a Merry Christmas, and a safe and happy New Year.

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IRS MeF Maintenance (Blackout)

In a world bursting with conveniences, even the most automated processes need to be unplugged and regularly checked. And with the upcoming IRS Modernized e-File (MeF) maintenance schedule, this is the same situation. Affectionately known as the “IRS Blackout,” this is a routine shutdown of the IRS e-filing system for maintenance, and it’s done every year.

This year, the IRS Business MeF Production Shutdown is scheduled for December 26 at 11:59 a.m. Currently, there is no date listed when their system will be operational again, but it usually goes back online in early or mid January.

What It Means
During this time you won’t be able to e-file any of the tax returns, or extensions, for exempt organizations. If you have any tax returns that need to be filed this month, you should have it done before the 26th. Fortunately, you can still paper file, if you choose to, and avoid any potential late fees.

Why A Shutdown
As mentioned earlier, the MeF system goes offline every year around this time for routine maintenance. Not only that - the shutdown is also to prepare the system for next year’s tax filings.

Example: This year you’ve been e-filing for the 2014 tax year. After maintenance is complete, you can e-file for the 2015 tax year.

What About ExpressTaxExempt
You can still log into your account with us, and you can continue to fill out your tax return as normal. Once you get to the end of the e-filing process, you can click “Authorize & Transmit to the IRS.” However, your completed form will be held until the MeF system is up and running again. When the system is operational again, your completed form will automatically be sent to the IRS with the electronic postmark date being the same as the day you first transmit it.

For more information or updates about the MeF shutdown, you can check out the Modernized e-File Status Page on the IRS website.

While the IRS e-filing system is momentarily out of commission, your friendly, courteous ExpressTaxExempt support team is still on the job! Our live professionals from Rock Hill, South Carolina can assist you in any way necessary to ensure you have a pleasant e-filing experience.

If you have any questions or need further help, we can be reached at (704) 839-2321 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. You can also get in contact with us at anytime with our 24/7 email at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Maintaining Tax-Exempt Status

Remember the holiday song “Santa Claus Is Coming To Town?” There’s a line there that goes, “He’s making a list, He’s checking it twice…” With exempt organizations, your list may not necessarily be about being naughty or nice - especially nonprofits or charities. You all are always on the nice list, right? But your organization should have some sort of checklist about sustaining your tax-exempt status that is verified on a regular basis.

We understand that running a successful nonprofit is hard work - and that’s just to make sure you’re achieving your mission goals and community objectives. The last thing you need is legal issues because you fell out of compliance with what the IRS, or your state, has in place. Here are some tips that can help maintain your exemption status:

• Prepare written receipts for contributions from individuals, and then register and file your annual reports that are required by your state. To make a tax deduction, a donor must have a written acknowledgement from your organization of any gift worth at least $250. You should also keep a record of the fair market value of goods and services provided by your organization. You can check your state’s official website for more information about state-specific requirements.

• Evaluate the compensation of top-tier members and contracts annually. If payment is excessively beyond industry guidelines, it could be viewed as a conflict towards your organization’s mission and ultimately lead to losing your exemption status. Any business arrangements should be formally approved, reasonable, and not in excess.

• Become familiar with the restrictions on lobbying activities. A substantial amount of lobbying can also cost you your tax-exempt status. Both the federal and state have restrictions and requirements for lobbying, which can include keeping a detailed record of such activities and expenses. For more information about lobby activities, check out one of our favorite blogs: Lobby Party.

• Pay taxes on unrelated business income, if necessary. Unrelated business income is from a regularly done service or activity that doesn’t necessarily work within your organization’s mission goal. Like lobbying, unrelated business income should be limited; if the unrelated business becomes the primary focus of your organization, you could lose your status. Take a look at our blog, Unrelated Business Income, for more information.

• Last, but certainly not least, file your required tax return to the IRS every year. Depending on your tax year, your filing deadline will always be on the 15th day of the 5th month after your tax end date. And depending on your gross receipts, you’ll either have to file the 990-N (e-Postcard), 990-EZ, or the 990 (Long).

Penalties for filing your tax return late can cost your nonprofit or charity thousands of dollars, and if you fail to file for three consecutive years, your organization loses its exemption status - no questions asked.

With ExpressTaxExempt, we support the exempt tax forms you need including the 990 series and Extension Form 8868. Our service offers impeccable features such as site encryption, McAfee secure certification, cloud computing, error checking, and interview-style questioning so you’re not just filling in a blank form on a screen.

And all of it is backed up by our live, tech-savvy support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina who is ready to assist you with the e-filing process. If you have questions about e-filing any of our available forms, dial us up at (704) 839-2321 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or drop us a line anytime through our 24/7 email support at support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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Promote Holiday Giving

The holiday season is upon us, and with it, the upsurge of generosity to give. For nonprofits and charities, this is quite possibly the best time of year as studies have shown that donations are substantially increased during the holiday season. But no matter how much more people are giving, your organization can’t take full advantage unless it attracts attention from donors.

Your nonprofit or charity may have a holiday fundraising campaign in place, and that’s a step in right direction. However, you also need to properly promote your holiday campaign in order to get it seen by your audience. Here are some helpful and easy tips you can use right now to further promote your holiday campaign.

Call-To-Action Display
Like the majority of nonprofit and charity organizations, you should have a website that details everything about your organization including its mission, major board members, events, etc. And with this website, you have a homepage that displays current events or services within your organization.

You’ll want to create a large call-to-action banner or display on your homepage that links to your main campaign website. The display should be the center of attention as soon as people enter your site. Make sure your banner is near the top of your homepage, and that it isn’t hidden underneath other banners or links.

Email Campaign
A great way to promote your holiday campaign is to set up a strict email schedule that regularly reminds people to donate towards your cause. You can start off with an email that explains your fundraising campaign and goals, followed by another email stating any incentives to encourage giving.

Further emails can include updates on fundraising status, ideas for gifts, or a countdown of the days left within your campaign. You can schedule these emails to go out once or twice a week; the objective is to constantly remind people to give to your organization. If you can, try to personalize each email with the recipient's name for a more casual approach.

Newsletter
If your organization regularly sends out a newsletter, be sure to use it as a platform to promote your holiday campaign. The newsletter doesn’t have to be exclusively about participating in the fundraiser, but much like the call-to-action display, it should bring attention to your campaign and how people can participate.

Social Media
Everyone is on social media nowadays, and it’s a great platform to reach multiple audiences at once. To promote using social media, you can create a holiday campaign hashtag to include in your posts. You may also want to include common hashtags associated with your organization, mission, or audience so when users search these hashtags they can find posts from your profile.

You can change your profile and cover picture to a branded image of your holiday campaign along with links in the description area to your website. Another helpful feature within social media is pinning a message about your campaign at the top of your timeline - no matter how many posts you make afterwards, that pinned message will always remain at the top and will be the first thing people see on your profile.

The possibilities of promoting your holiday campaign are virtually limitless, and you can find plenty more simply by using your favorite internet search engine. Once the donations and gifts start to flood in, you may have to report these contributions with your tax return. ExpressTaxExempt can make reporting gifts and contributions quick and simple. For more details, check out the following blog: Gifts and Contributions

As your #1 online hub for everything tax-exempt, ExpressTaxExempt offers e-filing support for Form 990-N (e-Postcard), Form 990-EZ, and Form 990 (Long). You can also e-file an Extension Form 8868 for an automatic 3-month extension, or an additional, non-automatic 3-month extension. Our dedicated support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina can efficiently help you throughout the e-filing process.

Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (704) 839-2321 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We can also be reached 24/7 with our email support at support@expresstaxexempt.com, or live chat with us at www.expresstaxexempt.com.

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Gifts and Contributions

Isn’t the holiday season the most special time of year? The streets and houses are adorned with festive decorations, holiday music plays through the radio, or through your streaming music service, and the television airs the annual list of holiday specials. While it may be a couple more weeks before we are all back around family and friends, these things are our first glimpse of the holiday season, and as the song pronounces, “It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas.”

One of the most common trends of this time of year is giving donations, and with the #GivingTuesday kickoff earlier this week, the act of giving is now in full effect. For those of you operating nonprofits and charities, it has to be an exciting time with all the contributions you’re receiving. In most cases, you’ll have to report those contributions when you file a tax return for your exempt organization.

With ExpressTaxExempt, reporting your contributions is as simple as waking up on Christmas morning.

After you’ve completed entering your organization details, prior year information, and your organization’s program service, you can begin to enter your contributions and gifts from the “Statement of Revenue” page.

1. Click the “Start” link for “Contributions, Gifts, Grants.”

2. Click “Start” if you need to list “Contributions from Fundraising Events” or “Contributions, Gifts, Grants, and Similar Amounts Received.”

Let’s say your organization has a holiday fundraiser, and it received contributions and donations from that fundraiser. Here, you can…

3. Enter the required income and contribution amount, and any expenses, from the fundraising event, then click the “Add” link.

If you didn’t host a fundraising event, and your organization accepted contributions as they were given, you can…

4. Click “Yes” for “Did you receive any contributions, gifts, grants and similar amounts received?”

5. Enter the required contribution details and click “Add Another” to list another contribution, or click “Add” to list only what you’ve just entered. That’s all there is to it.

“Do I have to list every individual contribution? I don’t have to with the paper form.”
We hear this quite often, and we understand that entering every single contribution can be tedious. While you might not have to do that with the paper form, please keep in mind that, with e-filing, you’re using sophisticated software with automated calculations and algorithms. The program even states the contribution will be factored into your public support percentage.

So if you tell a program that your organization receives at least 33% of its support from contributions, memberships fees, etc., then the program is going to automatically attempt to factor 33% from your list of contributions. If you list them as one large donation, that’s going to prompt an improper calculation, which will fail your public support test.


Bulk Upload

To compensate for having to sit within the program, and list contributions one by one, we do offer a bulk upload feature, which can list all your contributions at once.

All you need to do is

• Step 1 - Download our pre-set Excel template.
• Step 2 - Enter your contributions within the template and save.
• Step 3 - Upload your saved template from your computer.

In this merry time of year, as well as anytime of year, our jolly support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina is more than happy to answer any questions, or help with any assistance you may need with e-filing your tax return. Give us a call at (704) 839-2321 Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. Email us anytime, 24/7 at support@expresstaxexempt.com, or live chat with us at www.expresstaxexempt.com.

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#GivingTuesday

We spend Thanksgiving reflecting upon what we’re thankful for, we have Black Friday and Cyber Monday to participate in some of the best shopping deals of the year, and now the consecutive day tradition continues on with #GivingTuesday - a dedicated, global day to giving back. Since 2012, the Tuesday following Thanksgiving has committed the world coming together to promote generosity, and to give back to communities and those less fortunate.

Humble Beginnings
#GivingTuesday began with the charitable organization, 92nd Street Y, as a way to connect diverse groups of people, organizations, and businesses worldwide to honor and support the act of giving. The movement utilizes the limitless capabilities of social media as a platform for donors, no matter how big or small, to encourage donations of resources, talents, or even just time towards local challenges.

Participation
Anyone, anywhere can become involved with #GivingTuesday. All it takes is just coming up with some way you, your family, your organization, or your business can give back to your community. While you are giving, inform as many as you can about how you’re giving through various social media channels. You can post text, a photo, or even a video with the #GivingTuesday in your post.

You can give as much or as little as your heart deems necessary; however, remember that if you’re giving considerably, you can deduct the amount during tax season. For more information about tax deductions from giving to charity, check out the following blog:
Year-End Gifts for Charity

Nonprofits & Charities
#GivingTuesday serves as the grand kickoff for the charitable season, when people have their attention set on holiday and end-of-year giving. On your end, your nonprofit or charity organization may have to report contributions and gifts received if they exceed a certain amount. With ExpressTaxExempt, you can report those amounts as simple as listing the name of donor, the type of donation, and the monetary value of the donation.

ExpressTaxExempt also offers a bulk upload feature so you can list all your received contributions at once. All you need is to have your contributions listed on a spreadsheet, and then upload that spreadsheet within the program. We even provide a pre-made spreadsheet that you can download directly from us.

It truly is the start of the giving season, and our live support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina is available to give any assistance you may need to e-file a tax return for your exempt organization. Contact us at (704) 839-2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We also offer 24/7 email support through support@expresstaxexempt.com, or feel free to live chat us at our website.


Don’t forget to share with us your acts of giving in the comment section below!

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