Essential IRS Transcripts for Nonprofits: A Guide to Accessing Records
Nonprofit organizations must often provide proof of compliance, income, or payroll history when applying for grants, loans, or state registrations. In these cases, an IRS transcript becomes a key document. Unlike a photocopy of a tax return, a transcript is a summary record that shows essential tax information in a simplified format. Nonprofits frequently rely on transcripts from Form 990 and employment tax filings to verify their financial standing. Understanding the differences between transcript types is essential. The IRS offers several options, including a tax return transcript, a tax account transcript, and specialized documents like an entity transcript. Each serves a unique purpose, from confirming exempt status to showing payroll deposits and filing dates. Knowing which version to request can prevent delays and ensure that your organization provides the correct information to banks, regulators, or grantmakers. This article provides a complete guide to nonprofit IRS transcripts, focusing on Form 990 and payroll-related transcripts. You will learn what each transcript includes, how to request them online, by mail, or by phone, and the most common mistakes to avoid. Practical examples and best practices will help nonprofit leaders, accountants, and administrators manage transcript requests efficiently and maintain compliance throughout the current tax year and beyond.