In working with thousands of nonprofit startups over the years, one of the most frequent challenges we face when working with clients is conflict-of-interest concerns. New 501(c)(3) organizations are particularly vulnerable to this for a number of reasons, chief among…
When you start a charitable organization, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is selecting your board of directors. Your board is legally responsible for governance, fiduciary, and strategic oversight of your nonprofit corporation. This usually includes ratification of your initial bylaws, as well as overseeing…
Over the course of our many years in business, we have found the public support test to be among the least understood topics by nonprofits, especially smaller organizations. But, it is absolutely critical to understand how it works, lest your nonprofit…
Maintaining timely and accurate financial records is one of the most important responsibilities facing every nonprofit organization. But doing it right is time-consuming, and the rules are complicated.
Nonprofit organizations play an important role in addressing societal issues and providing services to communities. The board of directors is a critical component of these organizations, as they are responsible for overseeing the organization’s strategy, finances, and operations. In this…
A common mistake made by both businesses and nonprofits alike is the failure to budget income and expenses. Far too often, it’s a see-what-comes-in mentality that rules the day, with no attempt to plan, manage, or adapt to changing financial…
IRS Form 990, the full-length version, is arguably the most detailed tax return the average person is likely to encounter. While there are certainly IRS tax forms that are equally complex, most are used for very targeted situations, not for…
Starting any type of business is a risky endeavor. Whether you’re starting a consulting firm, a food truck, or a nonprofit food pantry, entrepreneurs face unique risks. And given that nonprofits can’t have owners, many social entrepreneurs face an even…
The instructions for IRS Form 990, the long form, are 103 pages long. IRS Form 990-EZ, its mid-range form, instructions are 48 pages long. IRS Form 990-PF, only for private foundations – but required of all private foundations regardless of…
In a few weeks, your nonprofit is having its next board meeting. It just happens to be the annual meeting in which officers and directors are elected. You’re the founder and have been President and a board member since the…