The May 15 Deadline: What It Means for Tax-Exempt Organizations

Each year, May 15 marks a critical deadline for tax-exempt organizations operating on a calendar-year basis. This is when annual filings are due to the IRS. Whether you're a nonprofit, private foundation, or small charity, understanding which form applies to your group and how to file it correctly is essential.

This deadline applies to various forms, including:

• Form 990 – Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax

• Form 990-EZ – Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax

• Form 990-PF – Return of Private Foundation

• Form 990-N – Electronic Notice (e-Postcard) for small organizations

• Form 990-T – Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return

• Form 4720 – Return of Certain Excise Taxes

All these forms must be filed electronically through an IRS-authorized e-file provider. 

Common Filing Errors to Avoid

Organizations should be aware of common mistakes that can lead to rejection:

• Incomplete schedules – Make sure all required schedules are fully completed

• Incorrect forms – Verify that the correct form is being filed for your organization's type and size

• Missing signatures – All forms must be properly signed by authorized individuals

• Incorrect EINs – Double-check the Employer Identification Number for accuracy

Need to file for an Extension?

If additional time is needed to complete the filing, organizations can request a six-month automatic extension by submitting Form 8868, Application for Extension of Time to File an Exempt Organization Return. Note: The extension only applies to the filing deadline, not to any tax payments due.

Resources for Compliance

The IRS offers online workshops to assist tax-exempt organizations in understanding their filing obligations and maintaining compliance. These resources help organizational leadership grasp the benefits, limitations, and expectations associated with tax-exempt status.

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