Why E-file with ExpressTaxExempt

The May 15 filing deadline for exempt organizations and private foundations is inching ever closer. E-filing 990 forms and extension is quickly becoming the best way for organizations and paid preparers to submit tax returns to the IRS.

If your organization still needs to file and you’re looking for an IRS-authorized, e-file provider, ExpressTaxExempt has you covered! With value-based pricing, nonprofit industry knowledge, and exclusive features, you’ll e-file confidently and securely this tax season.

Annual Tax Returns Made Simple
ExpressTaxExempt provides a user-friendly interface that guides you through the interview-style filing process with helpful tips. Information such as donation lists can be uploaded in bulk saving you a substantial amount of filing time. Schedules for Form 990, 990-EZ, and 990-PF are automatically generated based on your form interview answers. Our internal audit check ensures that every question has a response and amounts are balanced. Any mistakes we identify can be corrected before you transmit to the IRS.

Unique Filing Features
Transmit returns for multiple organizations from a single account or grant limited access to additional users for account management. Invite principal officers via a secure web portal to review completed tax form, add comments, make changes, or approve the return with an e-verify signature. Once you transmit your 990 form to the IRS, you’ll receive access to a printable copy of your return along with real-time email notification of your filing status.

Submit amended returns for approved 990 forms from previous tax years, or re-transmit rejected forms at no extra costs. Any tax return transmitted with ExpressTaxExempt is conveniently and securely stored within your account for easy access or reference later on.

Mobility & Accessibility
Small tax-exempt organizations can quickly and easily e-file using the free ExpressTaxExempt - Form 990 mobile app for iOS and Android devices. Large and mid-size exempt groups can also use the free Form 8868 mobile app to transmit extension forms and get approved for a 6-month extension of time almost instantly. You can use any desktop computer with internet access to sign in and manage your account which also includes continuing from where you last left off with the e-file process.

Support & Security
ExpressTaxExempt offers 100% US-based customer support for any questions about e-filing or your filing status. You also have the option to set up a session for in-depth, step-by-step filing assistance directly from your account with our Premium Support feature. Rest assured that your account is safe and secure with intensive, up-to-date web securities guaranteed to safeguard your private information. ExpressTaxExempt ensures that returns are sent directly to the IRS and nowhere else.

With all these benefits and features, why go through all the stress and time it takes to paper file? E-file your 2016 form 990 before the May 15 due date with IRS-authorized ExpressTaxExempt. Contact our support team of e-file experts at 704.839.2321 for any questions or help with your e-filing experience. We’re available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or reach us 24/7 via email with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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E-file 990-N Form in Minutes with New e-Postcard Application

ExpressTaxExempt proudly introduces a new service designed specifically for small nonprofit groups. Exempt organizations with gross receipts less than $50,000 can now e-file 990-N forms with the IRS just by using employer identification numbers (EINs).

With our new e-Postcard application, we’ve taken away the need to enter any filing details or drawn-out account information, so transmitting e-Postcards is faster than ever before! The entire process is quick, easy, and secure - using ExpressTaxExempt is now simple as 1-2-3!

Step 1: Search Your Organization’s EIN
Enter the employer identification number to view the filing history for your nonprofit - this shows each year you filed a 990-N (e-Postcard) and the years which you haven’t filed. Even if you don’t need to e-file, you can always use this first step to search any nonprofit and see when it last filed.

Step 2: Select a Tax Year to File
Choose the available tax years to file your e-Postcard and then enter your email address and a password - this automatically creates your free account with ExpressTaxExempt. If you already have an account, then just enter your password to proceed with the filing. Having an account is necessary for you to correct any rejected forms and receive email notifications about your filing status.

Important: The IRS supports e-filing for three consecutive years only - you won’t be able to file for years further back electronically.

Step 3: Review Form and Transmit to the IRS
Check that the information generated on your e-Postcard is current and correct. It should list the following:

• Tax Year Period
• Organization Name and Address
• Primary Officer Name and Address

All of this information comes directly from the IRS and your organization’s previously filed 990-N forms. All you have to do is confirm gross receipts are less than $50,000 and then submit your e-Postcard. If you need to change any organization or primary officer details, you can “Edit” before transmitting.

And that’s all there is to it! You can print a copy of your 990-N (e-Postcard) immediately after sending it to the IRS, and we’ll email you an approval letter once the e-file is accepted. You can check your filing status any time by entering your return number and email address. ExpressTaxExempt makes it super easy to e-file before the May 15 deadline.

If you have any questions about e-filing your 2016 990-N form with our new e-Postcard application, please contact our U.S. - based customer support team at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We’re also available via email with support@expresstaxexempt.com.

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New Year, New IRS Rules

With everything you had going on with your nonprofit during the back-to-back holiday seasons - not to mention other personal responsibilities - you might not have kept up with changes the IRS has implemented for nonprofits filing annual 990 forms.

No worries - we got you covered with the current filing requirements for tax-exempt organizations. We all know that filing late or submitting incomplete forms lead to thousands of dollars in IRS penalty fees - no group wants that. Here’s what you need to know about filing your annual tax return in 2017.

IRS Form 8868 Tax Extension
The 8868 extension form for exempt organizations has gotten reduced to a single form that grants an automatic 6-month extension of time. You can submit an extension request for the same applicable returns as before, which also means IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) is not eligible for an extension.

With no Part II of the 8868 form, there’s no longer a need for you to provide a reasonable explanation to gain the full 6-month extension. However, you are still limited to one extension per tax return for the filing year.

IRS Deadlines for Exempt Organizations
The changes with the 8868 extension form also bring slight changes to filing due dates. The filing deadlines aren’t necessarily different, but you should be aware that you only have two chances per year to file instead of the regular three.

For organizations operating on a calendar tax year, your filing due date is May 15. If you choose to file an extension, your extended deadline is Nov 15. There is no August deadline as there was with prior years, and if you fail to file before the November deadline, you’ll incur substantial penalties.

The filing due date for organizations running on a fiscal tax year is always the 15th day of the 5th month after your accounting period ends. If you opt for an extension at that time, you have until the end of six months to file your return - no other opportunities without late fees are available after the extended deadline.

E-file your 8868 extension form and 990 tax return quicker and easier than paper filing with ExpressTaxExempt.com. Our cloud-based application ensures that you submit a complete form, and if the IRS rejects your return, we identify the errors so you can correct them and re-transmit at no additional cost.

Contact our U.S. - based customer support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina for any questions or assistance with transmitting your return or extension form with the IRS. You can reach us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or email us, day or night, with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Start the New Year With a New Brand

A new year means new beginnings - and what better way to embrace the “new” than with a complete reboot of your nonprofit or charity?

Updating your organization’s brand can help with efficient communication, engage with a particular audience, or even keep your mission relevant with modern times.

When deciding to rebrand, you need to have a straightforward goal, and a plan to achieve it. Here are a few tips from the Internet about how to successfully change your organization's image:

Choose the Right Time to Rebrand
Though the start of the new year seems like an appropriate time for most, it isn’t necessarily right for all. Decide if your organization requires a change in needs or goals because a different branding will affect how your group operates.

Consider if your organization needs a mission update, if there’s a change in donor retention rates, or need a new opportunity to stand out. If so, then the lengthy process of rebranding may greatly benefit your charitable efforts.

Build a Brand Manual
A helpful device to have when rebranding is a brand manual or guide because you can create distinctive guidelines for your organization’s message and design. The voice of your nonprofit or charity should be consistent from print to digital, or even in-person.

Your brand manual can include communication techniques for social media and inform your team members about the organization’s new approach and vision. Be sure to establish a precise way of communicating which will give your audiences a better view of your tax-exempt group's purpose.

Change and Mix Things Up
Rebranding is the perfect time for your organization to stand out above the rest. Consider remodeling your nonprofit’s logo or creating a catchy slogan. The key is clearly expressing your group’s mission and values to your audience - refer to your brand manual about what you’re trying to convey to people.

Establish Fundamental Messages
Your organization’s essential messages work in multiple ways - they express the facts and goals of your strategy and vision, but it also displays your group’s legacy and personality. You should also be aware of what your audience values when creating key messages. Be able to strike a balance - your message is about the organization and work it accomplishes, but that information should also be relatable to your audiences.

Keep At It
Once you complete your rebranding, the changes must remain consistent, so everyone is familiar with the new look. Speak with your members throughout the entire process and consider their opinions. Have them all become knowledgeable of the new communication techniques - the more they know, the better they represent the organization.

Keep your audience up to date so when you finally implement the changes they aren’t confused with a different organization. Promote your new brand via websites and social media along with those essential messages which give your audience a better view of your goals and values.

Rebranding an exempt organization is a drawn out process that requires a considerable amount of time and effort. Even so, you still can’t neglect other responsibilities like filing your annual return with the IRS. ExpressTaxExempt.com offers cloud-based solutions for tax-exempt groups to electronically file 990 forms to the IRS quicker and easier than paper filing.

Contact our U.S. - based customer support for more information about how simple it is to complete and transmit Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N (e-Postcard) - call us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or submit a request through support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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5 Reasons for an IRS 990 Form Rejection

As easy as it is to submit a 990 form to the IRS electronically, there are instances when your form can get rejected. At that point, it’s up to you to figure out why the IRS rejected your return and how to correct it before incurring any penalties.

The IRS can deny your 990 form for a wide variety of reasons - each tax-exempt organization can have different financial situations. But here are five of the most common reasons your 990 tax return can get rejected.

1. Organization Hasn’t Received Exemption Status
Before filing any 990 form with the IRS, your organization must have exemption status. To apply for tax exemption, you should file either IRS Form 1023 or Form 1024. Exempt organizations usually wait a full year after receiving exemption status before filing a 990 form.

2. Tax Exempt Application is Still Pending
Even if you’ve submitted a 1023 or 1024 form, your exemption status isn’t official until you get a Determination Letter from the IRS - this will confirm your tax-exempt certification along with other pertinent information.

If the IRS requests you to file a 990 form before receiving a Determination Letter, there is an option to select a pending application. Failing to indicate this option when applicable will cause a rejection.

3. Incorrect Tax Year Periods
Your tax year period, or accounting period, must match the IRS database unless the organization terminates within the reporting tax year. Some mistake their group as operating on a calendar tax year when it’s a fiscal tax year - others think they can change their tax period simply by putting the dates they desire on the tax return.

You can find your correct tax year period dates from previous 990 forms, your exemption application form, or you can call the IRS tax-exempt hotline at 877.829.5500. If you wish to change your tax year period, you must follow the procedures mandated by the IRS.

4. Exemption Status is Automatically Revoked
Failing to file for three consecutive years results in an automatic loss of tax-exempt status. Before filing a Form 990, you must reapply for exemption status with Form 1023 or 1024 and get a Determination Letter from the IRS. You can contact the IRS directly to inquire about your status before filing.

5. Duplicate Tax Return
In some cases, the IRS may already have approved a 990 return for the tax year you’re attempting to file. You might have a CPA, tax professional, or parent company that already filed on your behalf - you’ll need to clarify that information within your organization. At the very least, you can reach the IRS and ask for the date they received the filing.

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, we automatically identify the reason for a rejected return and allow you to make corrections so you can re-transmit with no extra charges - you can also re-transmit however many times is necessary.

Our U.S. - based support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina can assist you with a rejected e-file - call us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m to 6 p.m. EST or send a message with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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ExpressTaxExempt Wishes You All A Happy Thanksgiving!

We’re only a couple of days away from Turkey Day and the excitement of the upcoming holidays has us counting down with anticipation. In the spirit of goodwill, we like to say “Thank You” to each of our clients who e-filed using our services this past tax season.

Whether you tried us out for the very first time or have been e-filing with us for years, we are thankful and greatly appreciative of your continued support. Any tax-exempt groups that are looking for a more quick and secure way to file, ExpressTaxExempt is your premier, IRS-authorized e-file provider!

Form 990 Series
We support tax returns for exempt organizations based on your gross receipts:

• IRS Form 990 - Required for organizations with gross receipts equal to or over $200,000 and total assets equal to or over $500,000.
• IRS Form 990-EZ - Required for organizations with gross receipts less than $200,000 and total assets less than $50,000.
• IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - Required for organizations with gross receipts less than $50,000.

We also support Extension Form 8868 for tax-exempt groups applying for an automatic 3-month extension or an additional, not-automatic 3-month extension. Remember, you must e-file your extension before the original IRS deadline, and tax extensions can only extend your time to file - not to pay any owed taxes.

Why E-file With ExpressTaxExempt?
We work closely with the IRS to provide the most streamlined filing experience available. Our service boasts unique features that you won’t find anywhere else such as automatic email notifications of filing status, bulk upload of contributions, internal error checks, and free transmittal of any rejected forms.

Check out a few of our short, easy read blogs this holiday season for more information about ExpressTaxExempt.com and e-filing 990 forms with the IRS:

• ExpressTaxExempt - E-file Solutions for Exempt Organizations
• Made a Mistake On Your Form 990? We've Got You Covered!
• Expert Assistance with Premium Support
• Form 990 Instructions for Exempt Organizations
• E-file Tax-Exempt Returns from Anywhere!

As with every year, we recognize major holidays so that our staff can be with family and friends. Our Rock Hill, South Carolina, headquarters will be open on Wednesday, November 23, during our regular hours of 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST; you can reach for any questions or e-filing assistance at 704.839.2321.

We will close our office for both Thanksgiving Day and Friday, November 25, with only limited email support available through support@ExpressTaxExempt.com. We wish all of you a safe and Happy Thanksgiving and thank you for choosing ExpressTaxExempt for your IRS 990 e-filings.

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Final IRS Deadline for Tax-Exempt Groups is TODAY!!

The day has finally arrived for exempt organizations - the last BIG day to e-file IRS Form 990 and Form 990-EZ.

If your nonprofit or charity runs on a calendar tax year, and you filed Extension Form 8868 Part II this past August, then you have until midnight local time to complete your tax return.

Apply for Extra Time!
There may still be a chance for your tax-exempt group to e-file an IRS Form 8868 extension; however, your organization must follow a fiscal tax year with specific end dates. If your tax period ends on June 30, you’re eligible to e-file Form 8868 Part I and get an automatic 3-month extension.

If your organization’s tax year ends on March 31, and you filed an extension for the August deadline, you can e-file Form 8868 Part II for an additional, not-automatic 3-month extension. You’ll need to include a reasonable explanation why you’re requesting extra time.

Important: You can now e-file a tax extension from anywhere with your favorite iOS or Android device - download our FREE ExpressTaxExempt - Form 8868 mobile app. Tax extensions are not available for IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard).

Benefits of E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt.com
As an IRS-authorized, e-file provider, we work closely with the IRS to provide the most streamlined filing experience. Access your account from anywhere at anytime. Our interview-style questions guide you through the entire process. We automatically generate required schedules for Form 990 and 990-EZ, and our internal audit check ensures your return is error-free. Get a printable copy of your form - even submit amended returns for prior year filings.

IRS Penalties
You must transmit your tax return by 11:59 pm local time to avoid any late penalty fees. If you have no choice but to file late, the IRS charges $20 each day your return is not sent - $100 each day if your organization’s gross receipts are greater than $1 million. Maximum penalties can go up to $50,000 or 5% of total revenues, whichever is the smallest amount.

For any questions or technical assistance with e-filing your 990 form, call our U.S. - based customer support at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or reach us 24/7 with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Simple Ways to Prevent Hefty IRS Penalties

No matter how much we all loathe it, there’s just no way to recover late filing fees and penalties paid to the IRS. In most instances, the IRS evaluates penalties on a case-by-case basis if you can provide valid reasons.

The best way to prevent any late fees with the IRS is to file your exempt organization’s annual tax return on time. But not everything goes that smooth in life, and that’s understandable - so here are a couple of ways you can still avoid late filing penalties.

Automatic & Not-Automatic Extensions
Without a doubt, the most simple method of preventing substantial fees from the IRS is e-filing an Extension Form 8868. You can get up to six months of extra filing time by submitting both parts of the form:

• Part I - Automatic 3-Month Extension
• Part II - Additional, Not-Automatic 3-Month Extension

The IRS Form 8868 tax extension only extends your time to file - not the time to pay any owed taxes. You must remember to file your tax return by the extended due date, and you are still responsible for paying any estimated taxes by the original deadline.

Important: Form 8868 cannot extend the deadline for small tax-exempt groups filing IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard).

Facts & Circumstances
If you missed the chance to e-file a tax extension, your only option is to submit IRS Form 990 or Form 990-EZ as soon as you possibly can. You’ll still get penalized each day your return is late; however, you can use a Schedule O to try to reduce or eliminate fees.

The IRS looks for what they call “facts and circumstances,” which are reasonable explanations about why your organization filed late. They specifically want valid answers to the following:

• What caused the organization from requesting an extension of time
• How the organization utilize conventional business care and prudence, and is not neglectful or careless
• What steps the organization is taking to avert the same situation from happening again

Even though the process may take some time, providing these explanations could put you in a better position of leverage. In some cases, the IRS can completely waive penalties if delinquency was due to uncontrollable events - check with your local tax professional for more details.

While facts and circumstance can potentially save you, it’s still not as easy as filing an extension. With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you can complete and transmit your extension form, and get approved within minutes. And with our FREE downloadable ExpressTaxExempt - Form 8868 mobile app, you quickly and securely submit an extension on the go from your favorite iOS or Android device.

Our U.S. - based support team is available for any questions or assistance with e-filing - give us a call at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or send a message with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Principal Officer’s Role with Filing Form 990

When an exempt organization files its annual tax return, it’s typically the responsibility of the principal or primary officer to complete the filing. The officer can either finish and submit the 990 form on their own or outsource the work to a tax professional or CPA.

Whatever the principal officer decides to do, it’s important for that person to provide their signature to the tax return before it gets sent to the IRS. Here is some general information about principal officers and their role in filing the form 990 series.

Who is a Principal Officer?
A principal or primary officer can have many different titles within tax-exempt groups. It can be your organization’s current President, Vice-President, Director, Treasurer, Secretary, Chief Accounting Officer, or other corporate officers - for instance, a tax or financial administrator. People who are not officers are your regular employees or volunteers.

Does a Principal Officer have Authority to Transmit 990 Form?
With a small tax-exempt organization, the principal officer is usually the President or a Director, so that person does have supreme authority to submit to the IRS once finishing the return. For larger organizations, the officer may need approval from the President or other board members before completing the filing.

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you can use our unique “Manage Approvers and Reviewers” feature which allows you to invite prominent members to a secure web portal via email. While there, they can review your 990 form, add comments or corrections, and e-verify with their signature. Have your entire board approve without managing multiple copies or wasting precious paper.

What Filing Details are Required About the Principal Officer?
IRS Form 990 and Form 990-EZ only ask for the officer’s name, title within the organization, and a daytime phone number. The IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) and Extension Form 8868 requests the same information with the addition of a mailing address.

If the primary officer is using a tax professional or a paid preparer to file the 990 series electronically, the officer is required to sign IRS Form 8453-EO. The form states that you are indeed an officer from a tax-exempt group and that you approve the return, and you give authorization for the preparer to file the form. It only requires the officer’s signature, date, and title within the organization.

Can an Officer File for Multiple Organizations?
If an officer is a primary member of each organization getting filed, then there shouldn’t be any issues. But if a principal officer of one group is filing on behalf of a different group without membership, then a signed Form 8453-EO is required from a primary officer of the different group.

ExpressTaxExempt.com lets you e-file for as many organizations as you need from just one account. We even generate your 8453-EO so you can print it, get the signature needed, and then upload the form into your account.

Call our U.S. - based, customer support team for any assistance needed with e-filing the form 990 series. You can reach us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We also over email support with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Form 990 Instructions for Exempt Organizations

Tax-exempt organizations are required to file an annual tax return with the IRS - this form is known as the 990 series, and it reports an organization’s total revenue, expenses, and activities.

Submitting an IRS 990 form every year is essential for tax-exempt groups to maintain their exemption status.

Failing to do so can lead to severe IRS penalties including automatic revocation of exemption status. Filing with incomplete or incorrect information also yields the same consequences. Here are a few guidelines to remember when filing a 990 form.

Accounting Period
Tax-exempt groups typically need to file their tax return by the 15th day of the 5th month after their accounting period ends. An accounting period, or tax year period, is a consecutive 12-month period which an organization operates. There are two types of tax years - calendar and fiscal. You can contact the IRS tax-exempt hotline (877.829.5500) and ask for your organization’s specific tax year begin and end dates.

Gross Receipts
The type of 990 form the IRS requires depends on your organization’s gross receipts or total revenues. For tax-exempt groups making over $200,000 a year, IRS Form 990 is mandatory to file. Organizations with gross receipts between $50,000 and $200,000 can file IRS Form 990-EZ. And small nonprofits or charities with less than $50,000 are responsible for filing IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard).

Requirements for a Complete Form 990
Preparing an accurate Form 990 or 990-EZ for your organization takes a considerable amount of time and paperwork. Both forms are several pages long depending on how many schedules you need to attach.

Along with your basic organization details, be ready to present information about program services, revenue, expenses, supplemental financial statements, net assets, balance sheets, a list of employees, other IRS filings, and tax compliance along with governance, management, and disclosures.

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt
The best way to file a 990 form is through an IRS-authorized, e-file provider. ExpressTaxExempt.com is such a service offering cloud-based solutions to exempt organizations looking for a quicker and more accurate method of filing with the IRS.

The process is entirely simplified with interview-style questions, internal error checks, bulk upload of multiple contributions or donors, automatic schedule inclusion, real-time email notifications of filing status, and storage of transmitted returns.

You can invite board members to e-verify your completed form, and even gain access to a PDF copy after submitting to the IRS. If your return gets rejected, ExpressTaxExempt can point out the errors for you to correct and retransmit. You can even file amended returns for accepted filings if applicable.

It’s necessary for exempt organizations to remain current with their annual tax returns. ExpressTaxExempt.com makes it easy to e-file, but feel free to contact us at 704.839.2321, or through email with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com, for any questions about e-filing with the IRS.

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E-file Tax-Exempt Returns from Anywhere!

E-file Tax-Exempt Returns from Anywhere

For those of you running small exempt organizations, you know that you’re required to file an annual tax return with IRS. Even if your nonprofit or charity brought in little or no money for the filing year, you still need to report that fact to the federal government.

Filing for tax-exempt organizations can take a lot of time and paperwork - or it used to. If your tax-exempt group makes less than $50,000 a year, you can now e-file your tax return in minutes with ExpressTaxExempt.com. And the best part - you don’t need to be anywhere near a desk or computer at all!

ExpressTaxExempt - Form 990-N App
With this FREE downloadable mobile app, you can e-file IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) at anytime and anywhere from your favorite iOS or Android devices and handsets. Complete the entire filing process in less than 10 minutes - all you need is your basic organization details, tax year period, and confirmation of $50,000 or less in gross receipts.

Your form is checked for any errors before you submit to the IRS, and you’ll receive an email confirmation of approval soon after transmitting your form. The information goes directly to the IRS and nowhere else. If your return gets rejected, the app identifies the mistake so you can correct it and resend with no additional charges.

ExpressTaxExempt - Form 8868 App
For other exempt organizations with gross receipts over $50,000, and you need more time to file your IRS Form 990 or 990-EZ, you can also e-file the IRS Form 8868 tax extension at your convenience from iOS and Android tablets.

You can e-file your extension in just minutes with your organization’s basic information and tax year period - you’ll also need to select which IRS form you typically file for your tax-exempt group. Like the 990-N mobile app, your return gets scanned for any mistakes, and you gain access to PDF copies of your transmitted tax form.

We’re here to offer you the easiest, most streamlined filing experience so you can stay compliant with the IRS and quickly get back to running your organization smoothly. Contact us at 704.839.2321 for any questions or help e-filing to the IRS. We’re also available 24/7 with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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E-file Form 990-N Before the Year Ends!

E-file Form 990-N Before the Year Ends!

There are only two full months left within the year, and if your small tax-exempt organization needs to file a tax return, ExpressTaxExempt.com has you covered. It’s not too late to transmit your IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) before the end of the year!

IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard)
The 990-N serves as an electronic notice and is for small organizations that make less than $50,000 - and that’s pretty much all you’re reporting to the IRS. There is no need for any exact amounts or schedules. The form is also electronic-only; you won’t find a paper version anywhere!

E-filing with ExpressTaxExempt.com
We make e-filing IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) as simple as 1-2-3! With our quick and easy steps, you can complete and transmit your form within minutes:

1. 1. Create a FREE account at ExpressTaxExempt.com
2. 2. Enter your Basic Organization Details
3. 3. Select the appropriate Tax Year
4. 4. Confirm your Gross Receipt
5. 5. Review Summary and Audit Report
6. 6. Authorize and Transmit to IRS

After submitting your 990-N, you’ll gain access to a printable copy of your e-Postcard summary and receive real-time email notification about your filing status. If the IRS rejects your e-file for any reason, we’ll identify the issue so you can make corrections and re-transmit at no extra cost!

IRS Penalties
There isn’t much of a penalty for filing Form 990-N (e-Postcard) late, which is why you still have until the end of the year to file. It doesn’t matter if your deadline was months ago - you’re still able to e-file.

There are consequences for not filing at all - fail to file for three consecutive years, and you’ll lose your tax-exempt status. You also can’t file an IRS Form 8868 extension form for e-Postcards. If you can’t file before the deadline, be sure to file as soon as possible afterward.

Important: The IRS e-filing system only supports three consecutive filing years at a time. As the new year begins, the oldest year gets dropped from support. These final two months will be the last time an organization can e-file for 2013. Your only option is to paper file IRS Form 990-EZ for any discontinued years.

Feel free to contact our U.S. - based, e-file professionals for valuable assistance or to answer questions about e-filing a 990 form. You can reach us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or 24/7 day and night with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Foreign Charities Filing 990 Forms

In the nonprofit sector, it’s common knowledge that your tax-exempt organization must file an annual return with the IRS - this form reports your organization’s total revenue, expenses, and activities. But if your exempt organization is considered foreign, then filing may be different than your domestic counterparts.

What is Considered a Foreign Charity?
A foreign charity or nonprofit is an organization created outside of the United States, or any of its territories and possessions, which claims tax-exempt status on revenue earned within the United States. A big difference between domestic and foreign charities is that US contributions to foreign organizations are not tax deductible.

Why Should a Foreign Charity Have to File?
Foreign organizations are required to file an annual 990 return if the IRS recognizes it as tax-exempt, it receives more than $50,000 in gross receipts from U.S. sources, and it engages in significant activity within the U.S. other than investment activities.

If your foreign charity makes less than $50,000 in the U.S. or doesn’t participate in important US activities, you may be relieved from filing or choose to submit an IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard).

For those who want or are required to file, you must report values in U.S. currency along with the conversion rate your organization uses. Combine amounts that come from both outside and inside the United States and give the total for each - your information must also be submitted in English.

Which 990 Forms Should Foreign Charities File?
Based on your gross receipts from U.S. sources, you are required to file the same types of forms as domestic exempt organizations:

• IRS Form 990 - U.S. gross receipts are over $200,000
• IRS Form 990-EZ - U.S. gross receipts are between $50,000 and $200,000
• IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - U.S. gross receipts are less than $50,000

Important: Like many other domestic organizations, if your foreign group is a private foundation or subject to unrelated business income tax, you’ll file IRS Form 990-PF or Form 990-T respectively.

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, complete and transmit your foreign organization’s 990 return in a secure and accurate way that is quicker than paper filing. Our cloud-based service even supports physical addresses located outside the United States. We also scan your entire form for any errors so can send a proper filing the first time around.

Feel free to contact our U.S. - based, e-file professionals at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, with any questions or help with your 990 tax return. We also offer 24/7 email support with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Don’t Get Revoked! Retain Your Tax-Exempt Status

For exempt organizations, the IRS requires that you file a tax return each year that reports your total revenue, total expenses, and activities. You submit these annual tax returns based on your gross receipts:

• IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - For organizations with gross receipts less than $50,000
• IRS Form 990-EZ - For organizations with gross receipts between $50,000 and $200,000
• IRS Form 990 - For organizations with gross receipts greater than $200,000

Keep Your Exempt Status
The easiest way to maintain your organization’s tax-exempt status is to file your mandatory 990 form each and every year. Even if you miss the deadline, which may result in IRS penalties, you should still file the return as soon as possible.

Having tax-exempt status allows your donors to write off contributions from their tax return, and it also keeps the federal government from imposing taxes on the income your organization brings in - so it’s important to maintain your status.

Losing Tax Exemption
Failing to file your 990 returns for three consecutive years is the quickest way to lose your exemption status automatically. You can use the EO Select Check to see if the IRS automatically revoked your organization - it’ll list the exact date the revocation became effective.

There are also other ways your organization can lose its exemption status such as participating in political or lobbying activities, but failing to file three years straight is an automatic loss - no questions asked. Conversely, there are particular types of organizations that are naturally exempt - they aren’t required to file a 990 form.

Reclaim Your Exemption Status
If you lose your tax-exempt status, you’ll need to file the correct application for exemption based on your gross receipts and pay the processing fee. You may even be eligible to request reinstatement back to the revocation date.

After you’ve obtained your exemption status again, the IRS may ask you to file 990 forms for the years you’ve missed. With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you have our easy-to-use, cloud-based service to e-file the 990 series for the available tax years within the IRS e-filing system.

You can also keep your tax-exempt status up to date by e-filing with ExpressTaxExempt.com every year. Contact our helpful U.S. - based support team for any questions about the e-filing experience. We’re available at 704.839.2321 - business hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or you can email us 24/7 with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Start a Nonprofit in 3 Simple Steps

Creating a nonprofit or charitable organization isn’t as easy as getting all your buddies together and doing community work for a noble cause. And at first glance, it may seem impossible with all the start-up costs and legal forms required.

Though it may be a challenge, and take lots of work, it is possible to break the process down into its essential phases. With these three steps, you can work towards building a recognizable tax-exempt organization sooner than you think.

File All Necessary Paperwork
Okay, take a breath and exhale - the sooner you realize you can’t avoid the paperwork, the easier you can embrace it and get done quicker. Keep in mind that there are application fees that accompany the majority of these forms, but they’re not as expensive as you may think.

You first need to register your organization’s name and receive an employer identification number - applying for an EIN is available for free on IRS website. Then, you have to get incorporated with your state; check your state’s chamber of commerce about incorporation and any associated fees.

Only after becoming incorporated with your state can you apply for tax-exempt status. Keep your ambitions and operating costs small to pay less in registration fees - you can build and grow later as time goes on. You want to file IRS Form 1023-EZ and pay the fee which was reduced this past July for small organizations.

Gain Trust & Supporters
While your applications are processing, use your waiting time connecting with potential donors and possible volunteers. No one is going to believe in your mission more than you, so prepare to have unyielding faith in what you what to accomplish and convey that to others.

By gathering contributors and volunteers at this point, you could cover some of the initial costs of your nonprofit. It’ll seem like you already have exemption status instead of a burdensome process of becoming tax exempt.

Use Community Resources
In most cases, you probably won’t be the only nonprofit or charity in your city. You may want to rely totally on fund grants, but they’re not as simple to obtain. Connect with other organizations in your community with similar missions and goals - they can share valuable insight about how your organization can best operate and possibly which grants favor your type of nonprofit.

After you build your organization and receive exemption status, you must file a tax return with the IRS each year which reports your nonprofit’s assets, structure, and activities. Based on your gross receipts, you could be fined a penalty for filing late or completely lose your tax-exempt status for not filing three years straight.

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, we offer the most streamlined, e-filing experience available - complete and transmit your tax-exempt return quicker than paper filing. No matter how large or small your organization, we have the 990 form or tax extension to accommodate your nonprofit or charity.

Assistance with the e-filing process is only a call away - contact our U.S. - based, customer support team at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or send an email to support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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4 Effective Blog Ideas for Nonprofits

There are many things you can do to increase community engagement with your nonprofit or charity. A least expensive and less time-consuming option is to create a weekly or bi-weekly blog.

Blogs are an excellent way to update donors, attract new contributors, and showcase your organization’s accomplishments all at once.

Blogs have the potential of reaching a larger audience than your regular lists of contact emails, but only if your blogs contain engaging and concise content. Here are four ideas for blogs from the Internet you can quickly use to increase your exempt organization’s outreach.

Stories from Communities
The most attractive thing your nonprofit or charity can do is display how it invokes positive change within the community. These stories can highlight how your organization meets community needs - you can interview a city leader, a donor, or a long-time resident. If possible, be sure to include photos and videos.

A Compilation Report
A small, summarized report can keep your audiences informed about the progress your organization makes - this can include statistics from donations, fundraising events, volunteers, or services. Feature about five stats from your organization’s activities and use one of those numbers each time you re-post the blog to your social media pages.

Important: A blog detailing a report should be brief and straight to the point. Keep it short to retain your audience’s attention - inform readers of only the significant numerical facts from your activities. Save the minuscule details for your major annual meetings.

Useful Resources or Advice
Your blogs should be able to connect with others outside your donor’s list - sharing tips and resources can put your brand in front of people who have never heard of you. For example, if your organization seeks the restoration and preservation of plant life, create a blog about building or maintaining a backyard garden. Or if your nonprofit is about art, point of some of the best art places in the community.

Behind the Scenes Coverage
Give your audiences an insightful look into the inner workings of your organization. You can significantly express the goals of your nonprofit, fundraising events, and other activities along with the people who help make it happen - use interviews or stories from staff, volunteers, or board members. Visuals are always important, so include various multimedia.

Whether these blogs bring in more contributions, volunteers, or even spark new ideas for fundraising events or program services, you’ll still need to report these changes to the IRS with your annual tax return. With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you can e-file your IRS Form 990/990-EZ a lot quicker than paper filing. Our service uses simple, interview-style questioning and cloud-based technology so you can access and complete your form on any computer.

Contact our U.S. - based support team for any questions or assistance with the e-filing process. You can reach us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST or email us 24/7 with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Tax Tips for Nonprofit Volunteers

Volunteers are an indispensable aspect of any nonprofit organization or charity. They help complete the daily tasks required, which allows your organization to continue reaching its mission or goal.

Many of you may already have a process in place for recruiting volunteers - email blasts, social media, sign-up events, and others.

But the key to secure potential volunteers is transparency. From the start, let your prospects know what you’re aiming to achieve and how they can assist. Another way to entice is explaining the benefits of volunteering. One of the many incentives for people donating services are the tax deductions.

Here are a few tips and guidelines from the IRS about claiming credits from services to charity.

Qualified Organization
Before your volunteers can deduct any service costs, the nonprofit or charity must be officially recognized by the IRS as a Section 501(c)(3) exempt organization - this leads right back to being transparent with your potential helpers. You’re obligated to explain whether your nonprofit is officially tax-exempt, waiting on approval, or haven’t even registered. Church and government organizations are automatically qualified.

Out-of-Pocket Spending
Volunteers can deduct traveling costs necessary to donate their services. All costs must meet the following criteria for eligibility:

• Unreimbursed expenses
• Fees accrued due to given services
• No living, family, or personal expenses
• Costs directly related to donated services

Substantial & Authentic Work
Your volunteers must perform work that is “real and valuable” to the organization. Any travel expenses are ineligible for tax credits if the volunteer duties were minimal or have no impact or significant importance with your nonprofit or charity.

Value of Services & Time
According to the IRS, volunteers can’t deduct the value of their donated services - what this means is that they can’t claim what they would typically charge for a particular service. For example, let’s say a caterer volunteers to feed your fundraising event or gala - they’re ineligible to write-off the usual amount they would’ve charged to cater such an event; however, the cost of supplies, utilities, and travel for the event are approved deductions.

Claims on Travel Costs
Travel expenses that volunteers can deduct includes

• Car expenses
• Lodging costs
• Meal expenses
• Train, air, and bus transportation
• Other transportation costs needed for local travel

Check with your community’s tax professional or CPA about how you can further explain the tax incentives for nonprofit volunteers. And once you’ve got your volunteer situation complete, visit us at ExpressTaxExempt.com for all your federal e-filing needs.

With our services, you can e-file IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard), 990-EZ, 990 (long), and Extension Form 8868 for an automatic, 3-month tax extension. Time is starting to wind down for those of you who extended your IRS deadline to November 15 - e-file right now with ExpressTaxExempt.com to avoid any late filing fees.

If you have any questions or need assistance with the e-filing process, our U.S. - based customer support is ready to help out. Call us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST, or email us at your convenience with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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ExpressTaxExempt - E-file Solutions for Exempt Organizations

No matter how you look at, running a successful nonprofit or charity organization isn’t an easy accomplishment. There are sufficient planning and organizing that goes into managing donor contributions, fundraising events, volunteers, community engagement, and a laundry list of other things designed to help reach the mission goal.

Not only that, but your organization and activities must be in compliance with the IRS to maintain exemption status. One of those regulations requires every tax-exempt organization to file a tax return each year. Here’s where the fine folks at ExpressTaxExempt.com step in to help!

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you can transmit a complete, accurate, and secure tax return directly to the IRS quicker than paper filing. We offer various e-filing solutions for both small and large exempt organizations depending on your gross receipts.

IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard)
For small organizations making less than $50,000 per year, you can e-file our quick and easy IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard). In minutes, you can have your e-Postcard transmitted and approved by the IRS. You’ll only need your organization’s basic details, tax year period, and confirm the organization makes less than $50,000 - that is it, no exact amounts required.

E-file your Form 990-N (e-Postcard) for current and prior tax years starting at $9.90.

For even more convenience, download our FREE ExpressTaxExempt - Form 990-N mobile app! You can e-file for the current tax year from the palm of your hand with your iOS or Android smartphone or tablet.

IRS Form 990/990-EZ
If your organization is much larger, you’ll have to e-file either IRS Form 990 (long) or IRS Form 990-EZ. Nonprofits and charities with gross receipts over $200,000 will need the Form 990 (long), while organizations making between $50,000 and $200,000 will e-file Form 990-EZ. We also support Schedules for each form.

E-file Form 990-EZ for current and prior years starting at $129.99 or e-file Form 990 for the current and previous tax year starting at $299.95.

Need an amended return? ExpressTaxExempt.com currently supports amended returns for Form 990/990-EZ. You must have e-filed your original return with our services to successfully file an amendment.

Extension Form 8868
With everything else going on within your organization, there’s no question that you may need extra time to get all your tax information in order. With ExpressTaxExempt.com, you can also e-file IRS Form 8868 Part 1 & 2, which grants an automatic, 3-month extension or an additional, non-automatic, 3-month extension - totaling up to six months of extra time.

E-file your Extension Form 8868 for the current tax year starting at $14.95.

You don’t have to rush home to a desktop computer for a tax extension - download our FREE ExpressTaxExempt - Form 8868 mobile app for iOS or Android devices and quickly transmit your form on the go!

Important: With each of our forms, you’ll receive automatic email notifications when the IRS accepts your filing. If you get a rejected form, you’re able to make any corrections needed and re-transmit at no extra charge. We also use cloud-based technology so you won’t have to complete a filing in one sitting - exit whenever you want and continue right where you left off. And with our automated audit check, you can transmit an error-free form the first time around.

At ExpressTaxExempt.com, we’re here to help you comply with the IRS so you can get back to your organization and do the work that matters most. For any questions or assistance with the e-filing process, contact our U.S. - based customer support line at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. Email us at your convenience with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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IRS Lowers Nonprofit Applications

Outstanding news for organizations trying to seek tax-exemption status - the Internal Revenue Service reduced its processing fee for Form 1023-EZ, Streamlined Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

The change, implemented this past July 1, slashes the original application fee from $400 to $275.

What is Form 1023-EZ
The EZ version of IRS Form 1023 was introduced back in 2014 as a quicker and simpler process for small organizations applying for exemption status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Tax Code. This shorter 3-page form made it possible for the IRS to cut down the backlog of the tens of thousands of organizations seeking tax-exemption each year.

If your organization makes less than $50,000 and have assets less than $250,000, the short application form is the best way to go. You can also learn more about what the form requires with our easy blog: Section 501(c)(3) Applications

How To Pay
The IRS states that organizations can pay their processing fees through Pay.gov when filing the application. You’ll need to provide either bank account information or a valid credit card or debit card to process the payment.

IRS Compliance
After your organization applies and receives exemption status, the next thing to do is preserve your tax-exemption by e-filing the required form each year with the IRS. Because your gross receipts are less than $50,000, you’ll need to e-file IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard), and no other service makes that easier than ExpressTaxExempt.com.

With ExpressTaxExempt.com, all you need to enter is basic organization details, select your tax year period, and confirm your organization makes less than $50,000. Afterward, you can authorize and transmit to the IRS along with receiving real-time, email notifications of your filing status. And the best part - the process takes only minutes to complete.

If you’re nowhere near a computer, that’s not a problem. Our FREE downloadable ExpressTaxExempt Mobile app, for iOS and Android devices, allows you to e-file anywhere there is Wi-Fi access for smartphones and tablets. And the process is no different - complete your filing within minutes.

As easy as we’ve made it, we still understand the severity that comes with federal tax filings. If you have any questions or need assistance with your e-filing experience, contact our U.S. - based support team in Rock Hill, South Carolina. We’re available at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. We also offer 24/7 email messaging with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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Trouble Finding the Right 990 Form? Let ExpressTaxExempt Make It Easy!

It’s important to know which tax return you’re required to file for your exempt organization - filing the incorrect form to the IRS gets rejected as an incomplete return, which can lead to penalties. The last thing you want is to pay thousands of dollars for a mistake that is easily avoidable.

For nonprofits, charities, and other organizations with exemption status, it’s mandatory that you correctly file the following forms with the IRS based on your organization’s gross receipts and assets:

• IRS Form 990-N (e-Postcard) - Organizations with gross receipts less than $50,000
• IRS Form 990-EZ (short form) - Organizations with gross receipts between $50,000 and $200,000, and total assets less than $500,000
• IRS Form 990 (long) - Organizations with gross receipts greater than $200,000 and total assets greater than $500,000

The Right Form with ExpressTaxExempt
Selecting the correct 990 form with ExpressTaxExempt.com couldn’t be more straightforward. If you know your organization makes less than $50,000, you can choose to e-file the “990-N (e-Postcard)” or “Form 990 Series” if your organization brings in more money.

With the “Form 990 Series” option, we simply ask what your gross receipts are - either less than $200,000 or greater than $200,000. Whichever answer you choose, the appropriate form is automatically generated for you.

And the best part - let’s say our program creates a Form 990-EZ based on your answer for gross receipts; however, the amounts you’ve entered for total revenue are over $200,000. ExpressTaxExempt.com will suggest you e-file the 990 (long) and will allow you to continue with your new form without having to start from the beginning again.

Let us help you make federal filings simple so you can get back to making your community a better place. Give our U.S. - based support professionals a call for any questions about your e-filing experience - reach us at 704.839.2321, Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. EST. You can also message us 24/7 with support@ExpressTaxExempt.com.

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