What is a Form 990-EZ?

Form 990-EZ is a required IRS form for tax-exempt organizations that take in less than $200,000 in gross receipts and less than $500,000 in total assets at the end of the year. It is a simplified version of the full Form 990 that requires less detailed information. But, that’s not to say that filing the 990-EZ is always simple. Learn more about this reporting requirement and help your nonprofit stay compliant.

First off, it’s important to know that while being tax exempt means you don’t have to pay Federal taxes, it doesn’t mean you don’t have to file paperwork with the IRS. There are different forms that different organizations have to file, depending on your gross receipts, total assets and other factors. Consult a tax professional or visit the IRS website for detailed annual filing information.

990-EZ Criteria

IRS Form 990-EZ is available to tax-exempt organizations that have gross receipts less than $200,000 and total assets less than $500,000. However, there are exceptions for Section 501(c)21) black lung trusts, sponsoring organizations of donor advised funds, organizations that operate hospital facilities, Section 501(c)(29) nonprofit health insurance issuers and more.

990-EZ Deadline

The 990-EZ should be filed by the 15th day of the 5th month after the organization’s financial year ends. If you file on the calendar year (January 1 start date), your 990-EZ will be due on May 15th. If you need more time, use form 8868 to apply for an extension. Failure to file could result in penalties to your organization.

What is Needed to File a 990-EZ

With the 900EZ, nonprofits must file their income, expenses, and other financial information. You’ll need some basic information such as your, Organization’s Name, Employer Identification Number (EIN), Contact Information, Fiscal Year Start and End Dates, Gross Receipts, Total Assets, Net Income, Unrelated Business Income Program Service Revenue, Expenses and more. For a complete list, visit the IRS website’s 990-EZ guidance.

990-EZ: What Else You Should Know

• Know that an organization’s 900-EZ is generally available for public inspection. 
• Additional schedules could be required to be completed depending upon the activities and type of organization.
• Paper forms are no longer accepted. The 990-EZ must be filed electronically.

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E-File Your 990 with MoneyMinder
Save time and e-file the 990-N, 990-EZ or 8868 extension directly within MoneyMinder for a low annual price. Learn more about e-filing with MoneyMinder.

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Working on your organization’s 900-EZ? Contact us for a FREE 990-EZ Cheat Sheet! Current customers can find the cheat sheet in the Budget and Tax Forms section of MoneyMinder.

This article was originally written in 2013 and edited in 2024. Consult a tax professional for advice specific to your organization.