Not for profit organizations on a calendar year must file their form 990 no later than May 17 unless you ask for an extension. This is true regardless of which form 990 you file. There are 3 different forms 990 depending on your gross revenue and assets.
Do not let it slip by! If you need an extension, you can obtain an automatic 6-month extension by preparing and filing form 8868. You will receive an automatic 6-month extension to November 15. If you do not file for the extension, you risk penalties for late filing.
If you skip 3 consecutive years you will lose your tax-exempt status and have to refile for exempt status.
Finally, remember the electronic filing is now mandatory!
STATE DEADLINES ARE DIFFERENT! In Illinois, charities on a calendar year must file their annual Form AG 990-IL by June 30. If you send a letter asking for an extension, along with the form 8868 and the $15 filing fee, they will usually grant a 2-month extension.
If you do not file with the Attorney General, they will cancel your registration and you will need to re-register. You will incur penalties for late filing and have to re-register.
THE ATTORNEY GENERAL’S WEBSITE IS STILL DOWN! The Attorney General’s computer system and much of the website were the subject of a serious cyberattack several weeks ago. If you are trying to check the status of an organization, you may be unable to do so for several more weeks. We will keep you apprised of the AG’s computer system status.
Many of the staff are working remotely since the computer system went down. If you need to mail something to the Attorney General, we recommend you do so by certified mail, return receipt requested or by Federal Express or UPS, so you have proof that you filed it or at least attempted to file it.
If you have questions or need assistance we can help, but you need to call soon.
