What Do California Nonprofits Need to File Each Year?
If you run a charitable organization in the state of California, you probably already know that you must file paperwork with the government every year in order to maintain your tax-exempt status. But what exactly do you need to file? Let’s discuss some of the most important forms:
California Nonprofit Filing Requirements
Nonprofits based in San Diego and elsewhere in California are generally required to file at least a few of the following documents with the state each year:
FTB Form 199
FTB Form 199 provides the state with important information about the organization’s activities in California, including its revenues, expenses, and assets. Nonprofits with gross receipts normally above $50,000 are required to file it by the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the taxable year.
FTB Form 199N
FTB Form 199N is a shortened version of Form 199. It’s available to nonprofit organizations that have gross receipts of under $50,000 – and is due by the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the fiscal year.
Other State Filing Requirements
Many, but not all, charitable organizations based in California will also need to file some of these documents with the state:
- FTB Form 109
- FTB Form 3509
- OAG Form CT-1
- OAG Form RRF-1
- SOS Form SI-100
If you are not sure which of these documents your organization is required to file, speak with an experienced California charity lawyer as soon as possible. They will be able to provide you with all the information you need to know.
Federal Nonprofit Filing Requirements
Charities in California are usually required to file one of the following documents with the federal government on an annual basis:
Form 990
Form 990 is a tax document that provides the IRS with important information about a nonprofit’s finances, including its assets, revenues, and liabilities. Charitable organizations that have gross receipts of more than $200,000 or total assets of over $500,000 are required to file this form by the 15th day of the 5th month following the end of the taxable year. In most cases, that is May 15th.
Form 990-EZ
Form 990-EZ is a shorter version of Form 990 that is designed for charitable organizations with gross receipts of less than $200,000 and total assets of under $500,000. Like Form 900, Form 990-EZ is due by the 15th day of the 5th month following the end of the tax year.
Form 990-N
Form 990-N is also known as the “e-Postcard” because it is filed electronically. It is designed for nonprofit organizations with gross receipts of less than $50,000. It is also due by the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of the fiscal year.
Form 990-PF
Form 990-PF is a tax document that is specifically designed for private foundations – regardless of their size or financial status. Operators of private foundations are required to file it by the 15th day of the 5th month following the end of the taxable year.
A San Diego Nonprofit Attorney You Can Count On
If you need a skilled California charity lawyer to help you file your required paperwork each year, please do not hesitate to get in touch with the team here at the Semanchik Law Group. We have an in-depth understanding of state and federal law, and we’d be more than happy to provide you with the assistance you require.
To set up a consultation, just send us a message online or give us a call at (619) 535-1811.
