Everything you need to know about Form 990-EZ

What is Form 990-EZ?

Form 990-EZ is the Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax — a streamlined annual information return for small and mid-sized tax-exempt organizations under section 501(a). It captures the same core information as the full Form 990 (revenue, expenses, balance sheet, programs, governance, compensation) in a shorter format. Like the full 990, it's open to public inspection.

Who can file Form 990-EZ?

A tax-exempt organization can file Form 990-EZ if its gross receipts for the year are less than $200,000 AND its total assets at the end of the year are less than $500,000. Organizations above either threshold must file the full Form 990. Organizations with gross receipts of $50,000 or less may file the postcard Form 990-N (e-Postcard) instead. Private foundations always file Form 990-PF regardless of size.

What you'll need to complete it?

Have the organization's revenue and expense totals, balance sheet at year-end and beginning of year, statement of program service accomplishments, list of officers, directors, trustees, and key employees with their compensation, and details on any required schedules (Schedule A for public charities, Schedule B for contributors, Schedule O for narrative responses, and others as applicable).

When and how to file?

Form 990-EZ is due on the 15th day of the fifth month after the organization's accounting period ends — May 15 for calendar-year organizations. All Form 990 series returns, including 990-EZ, must be filed electronically through an IRS-authorized e-file provider. A six-month extension is available by filing Form 8868. Failure to file for three consecutive years results in automatic revocation of tax-exempt status.