What is the IRS Form 990 and what does your organization need to know about it? What follows is a brief explanation of a specific section of the Form 990 and its relevance to nonprofits.1

In addition to maintaining a gift acceptance policy, a nonprofit should also maintain a charitable gift receipt template that it fills out and gives to a donor once it accepts a gift (both cash and in-kind gifts). Donations to tax-exempt organizations should only be deducted on a donor’s federal income tax return if the donor receives a receipt from a tax-exempt organization that serves as evidence that the donor contributed to a tax-exempt organization.

When acting as a director or officer, there are some situations when one can be subject to personal liability for one’s actions. If uninsured, one lawsuit can have a huge impact on a nonprofit organization. Luckily, Directors and Officers insurance (“D&O insurance”) allows for a way to mitigate the damage in scenarios like this.

In recent years, nonprofit organizations have faced a surge in government investigations, ranging from state attorney general inquiries into potential violations of charitable solicitation laws to U.S. Department of Justice investigations into alleged failures in nonprofit tax compliance. Congressional committees have also launched investigations into conflicts of interest within nonprofit entities. How a nonprofit responds to a government inquiry, whether a routine regulatory review or a criminal investigation, can significantly affect its operations, reputation, and ability to raise funds. This guide offers an overview of common government investigations and provides strategies to help organizations navigate the process effectively.

State constitutions can be a sword wielded against religious nonprofits, or a shield to guard against overreaching government. Understanding how can be a key to preserving corporate and nonprofit status and protecting religious liberty and conscience.