Keep your nonprofit compliant in 2025!

Tiffany
Mar 30
3 min read

Everything You Need to Know About Filing Form 990-EZ (For Nonprofits)

If you're part of a nonprofit organization, you’ve probably heard about IRS Form 990—but did you know there’s a shorter, simpler version called Form 990-EZ? It’s the Goldilocks version of annual tax reporting for many mid-sized nonprofits: not too long, not too short—just right.

Whether this is your first time hearing about it or you’re just brushing up for tax season, we’ve got you covered with this simple guide that breaks down everything you need to know about filing Form 990-EZ.

✅ What is Form 990-EZ?

Form 990-EZ is the Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax. It’s used by tax-exempt organizations to report their annual financial activity to the IRS.

Think of it like a yearly check-in: you’re showing the IRS how much money your organization brought in, where it was spent, and what good work you’ve been doing with those funds.

It’s shorter and less complex than the full Form 990 but provides more detail than the very basic 990-N (also known as the e-Postcard).

👥 Who Qualifies to File Form 990-EZ?

Not all nonprofits qualify to file the 990-EZ. To be eligible, your organization must meet both of the following:

Gross receipts are less than $200,000, and
Total assets are less than $500,000 at the end of the tax year.

If your organization is above these thresholds, you’ll need to file the full Form 990. If you're below $50,000 in gross receipts, you can file the 990-N (e-Postcard) instead.

📅 When is Form 990-EZ Due?

Form 990-EZ is due on the 15th day of the 5th month after the end of your nonprofit’s fiscal year.

For example:

If your fiscal year ends on December 31, your 990-EZ is due May 15.
If your fiscal year ends on June 30, your 990-EZ is due November 15.

Need more time? You can file Form 8868 to get an automatic 6-month extension.

📍 Where Do You File Form 990-EZ?

The easiest way to file is electronically. The IRS now requires most tax-exempt organizations to e-file their Form 990 series.

You’ll need to use an IRS-approved e-file provider. A few popular options include:

Tax990
File990
ExpressTaxExempt

Many of these platforms guide you step-by-step, making it much less intimidating.

🤔 Should I File Form 990-EZ?

If your organization qualifies—yes! Filing the correct version of Form 990 keeps your nonprofit in good standing with the IRS.

Failure to file for three consecutive years will result in your tax-exempt status being automatically revoked—yikes!

Filing Form 990-EZ also promotes transparency, which builds trust with donors, grantmakers, and your community. It shows that your nonprofit is responsibly managing funds and being held accountable.

📝 How to File Form 990-EZ

Here’s a quick step-by-step overview of how to file:

Gather your financial records
- Revenue and expenses
- Assets and liabilities
- Contributions, grants, and fundraising numbers
Choose an IRS-approved e-filing provider Log in or create an account with a provider that offers Form 990-EZ.
Complete the form online You'll fill out sections like:
- Mission and program accomplishments
- Revenue and expenses
- Balance sheet
- Officers/directors' information
Double-check everything Accuracy matters. Errors can delay processing or trigger unwanted questions.
Submit and save your confirmation Once submitted, save your e-file confirmation for your records.

Final Thoughts

Filing your 990-EZ doesn’t have to be stressful. With a little organization and the right tools, you can confidently check this task off your nonprofit’s to-do list and focus on the amazing work you’re doing in your community.

Still unsure if the 990-EZ is right for your organization? A quick chat with a tax professional or nonprofit accountant can help steer you in the right direction.