Representing Nonprofits: Traps and Tips

Representing nonprofit organizations can be incredibly rewarding but challenging on many levels. Last month, Gene shared the tips and traps of representing tax-exempt organizations regarding corporate, tax, and other issues in a podcast hosted by West LegalEdCenter.  Here is a summary of his many enlightening and constructive points:   Traps Failing to inform the client at […]

Proposed Form 1023-EZ

The IRS recently proposed Form 1023-EZ, a simplified version of Form 1023 for recognition of federal exemption under 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The new form converts Form 1023’s 25-pages into merely 3, creating a less burdensome exemption process for certain qualifying organizations. The goal of the streamlined application is to help small charities […]

12 Things Nonprofits Should Know About Proposed Tax Reform

On February 26, 2014, Rep. Dave Camp (R-MI), the Chairman of the Ways and Means Committee, released a draft proposal for comprehensive tax reform. The almost 1,000 page document contains significant changes that will affect individuals, for-profit corporations, and tax-exempt entities.  Camp’s proposals will likely be debated throughout the year, but it is imperative that […]

Retroactive Reinstatement Procedures: Simplified

Generally, most tax-exempt organizations are required to file an annual return or notice with the IRS. Since 2010, the IRS has revoked the exemption of hundreds of thousands of organizations for failing to file the applicable annual return for three consecutive years. Once an organization’s tax-exempt status has been revoked, it may suffer a number […]

Fraud: Protecting Your Nonprofit

Following up on our earlier post on fraud in the nonprofit sector, here are some tips for preventing fraud and the diversion of charitable assets: Create a Strong Policy Against Fraud:  Organizations should create comprehensive and forceful policies that go beyond the words on paper. The policies should incorporate reporting mechanisms and real consequences for […]