IRS Form 990 (2018): Return of Tax-Exempt Org.
What IRS Form 990 (2018) Is For
IRS Form 990 (2018) is the annual federal income tax return required for tax-exempt organizations under the Internal Revenue Code. It reports income, expenses, grants, payments, and contributions to the Internal Revenue Service. The filing confirms the organization’s tax-exempt status, financial accuracy, and compliance with federal income tax laws. This process enables the IRS to determine whether an organization continues to qualify for exemption and identify any excess benefit transactions or other financial concerns.
Tax-exempt organizations, including private foundations, religious associations, and corporations with substantial gross income, are required to file this form annually. Organizations reporting $200,000 or more in income or assets over $500,000 must file the full version. Completing the correct form supports transparency and ensures the organization’s finances remain recognized and accountable to the public.
When You’d Use Form 990 (2018)
Organizations file IRS Form 990 for 2018 when they need to report activities, income, and contributions for the 2018 tax year. Filing this federal income tax return ensures the Internal Revenue Service receives accurate reporting under the Internal Revenue Code. It also helps maintain the organization’s tax-exempt status while avoiding penalties and revocation.
Filing Situations and Compliance
An organization files when it must correct a previously filed form, report unearned income, or update information about contributions, grants, or expenses. Filing also verifies that an organization used its funds for recognized charitable or religious purposes in accordance with the law. The IRS reviews each submission to confirm that financial reporting remains complete and consistent.
Common Filing Scenarios
Organizations file when they miss the filing deadline, receive an IRS notice, or submit an amended return with Schedule O. Filing is also required when a fiscal year overlaps 2018–2019 or if the organization risks revocation after three years of non-filing. Submitting on time helps prevent unnecessary costs and ensures that the organization’s tax-exempt qualifications remain safeguarded.
Key Rules or Details for 2018
The Internal Revenue Service implemented several significant updates in the 2018 tax year that directly affected tax-exempt organizations. Each rule adjusted how income, benefits, and net assets were reported on IRS Form 990 for the 2018 tax year. Understanding these changes helps organizations remain compliant with the Internal Revenue Code and avoid unnecessary costs during filing.
- Section 4960: The IRS introduced an excise tax on nonprofit executive compensation exceeding one million dollars or involving an excess benefit transaction.
- Section 4968: The Internal Revenue Service imposed an investment income tax on specific private foundations with high asset values.
- UBTI Changes: The rule required parking and transportation benefits to be treated as unrelated business taxable income (UBTI).
- FASB ASU 2016-14: The standard updated reporting requirements for nonprofit net assets and financial classifications.
Filing thresholds remained $200,000 in receipts or $500,000 in assets for a full return. These rules establish the framework for accurate reporting, followed by a step-by-step filing process to ensure compliance.
Step-by-Step
Filing IRS Form 990 for 2018 requires clear organization and accuracy to meet the Internal Revenue Service's requirements. Each step ensures your organization reports income, contributions, and expenses correctly for the 2018 tax year. Careful preparation helps maintain tax-exempt status and prevents penalties for filing errors.
- Gather Documents: The organization should collect 2018 financial records, grants, wages, and charitable payments.
- Use the Correct Form: The filer must use the 2018 version, not a current form, to match the reporting year.
- Attach Required Schedules: The organization should include Schedule O and other necessary attachments for full disclosure.
- Submit to the IRS: The filer should mail the return to the Ogden, Utah, Service Center or e-file if mandated.
- Retain Copies: The organization should keep a complete record for future reference and public inspection.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Organizations filing IRS Form 990 for 2018 must pay close attention to accuracy and consistency in reporting. The Internal Revenue Service reviews every submission for errors that may affect compliance with the Internal Revenue Code. Careful preparation prevents unnecessary costs and protects the organization’s tax-exempt status.
- Incorrect Form Year: The filer should always use the 2018 version to match the correct tax year.
- Incomplete Return: The organization must include all required schedules, such as Schedule O, and ensure every field is completed.
- Gross Income Reporting: The filer should report total receipts and payments, not adjusted or net figures.
- E-Filing Requirements: Each large organization is required to file electronically to meet IRS mandates.
- Accounting Method Errors: The organization should use the same method consistently to avoid reporting discrepancies.
Accurate filing promotes transparency and reinforces public confidence in nonprofit operations. It also ensures that tax-exempt organizations remain compliant with federal law and reporting standards.
What Happens After You File
Once an organization submits IRS Form 990 for 2018, the Internal Revenue Service begins its review to confirm compliance with the Internal Revenue Code. The agency evaluates income, deductions, and payments to ensure financial data aligns with the federal income tax requirements. Processing typically takes six to eight months, depending on the accuracy of the return and whether the organization filed electronically or mailed a paper return.
Late or incomplete filings may receive correspondence requesting clarification or an amended return. Organizations with reasonable cause for delay can request penalty relief to reduce potential costs. Each accepted return remains publicly available for a period of three years, promoting transparency and accountability. Timely and accurate reporting supports donor confidence and helps protect the organization’s tax-exempt status.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is IRS Form 990 (2018)?
IRS Form 990 (2018) is the annual federal income tax return required for tax-exempt organizations under the Internal Revenue Code. It reports income, grants, wages, and other payments to the Internal Revenue Service, ensuring the organization’s tax-exempt status remains active. Accurate filing reflects financial accountability and helps prevent penalties and fines.
When is the filing deadline for Form 990 for 2018?
The due date for filing is the 15th day of the fifth month after the end of the organization’s tax year. Filing before the deadline avoids additional costs, interest, or penalties assessed by the IRS. Late submissions or incomplete returns may necessitate an amended return to ensure compliance with tax regulations.
Can an organization correct errors on a previously filed form?
Yes. File an amended return using the same 2018 version and include Schedule O with an explanation of the correction. This process helps maintain accurate reporting and protects the organization’s tax-exempt status.
What penalties apply for late or incomplete filing?
The Internal Revenue Service may impose daily penalties based on the organization’s gross income and filing status. Penalties increase until the return is complete, reaching a maximum penalty limit under federal law. Filing accurately and on time helps avoid these unnecessary expenses.
Who must file Form 990 for 2018?
Private foundations, religious associations, and other organizations with significant income or contributions must file to report their income tax details and maintain their tax-exempt status. Filing supports transparency in finances and ensures continued compliance with federal income tax requirements.





