Key Takeaways
- Staying compliant protects your nonprofit's 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status and donor confidence.
- Common ongoing requirements include annual reports, IRS Form 990, and charitable registration renewals.
- Organized bylaws, board minutes, and timely filings keep your organization transparent and accountable.
- Beacon's ComplianceGuard simplifies compliance by handling key filings and documentation reminders
Stay organized and protect your mission with this nonprofit compliance checklist. Learn what to file—from annual reports and IRS Form 990 to board minutes and charitable registrations—and see how Beacon’s Compliance Guard makes staying compliant simple.
Introduction
You've formed your nonprofit and secured 501(c)(3) status. Congratulations! But compliance doesn't stop there. Ongoing reporting and record-keeping are critical for maintaining your good standing with both the IRS and your state.
If you're still finalizing your setup, start with our How to Form a Nonprofit Organization in 8 Steps in Your State guide. Then use this nonprofit compliance checklist to protect your tax-exempt status, stay organized, and build long-term donor trust.
Your First 90 Days: Early Compliance Tasks
The first few months after formation set the tone for lasting success. During this stage:
- File your Initial Report (if required in your state). Some states, like California and Washington, require a report shortly after incorporation.
- Hold your first board meeting and approve your bylaws. Document major decisions, elect officers, and record minutes.
- Apply for charitable solicitation registration if you plan to raise funds publicly or online.
- Establish internal policies for conflict of interest, whistleblower protection, and record retention.
Tip: Beacon customers using ComplianceGuard receive one free Initial Report filing (if applicable) and access to MinutesManager, making it easy to log and store your early board meeting minutes.
Annual Filings and Reports: Keeping Your Nonprofit in Good Standing
Once your nonprofit is up and running, you'll have recurring filing obligations each year.
1. File Your Annual Report With the State
Most states require nonprofits to file an annual or biennial report to confirm details like your registered agent, officers, and address. Missing this filing can lead to penalties or even loss of good standing.
Beacon's ComplianceGuard includes one free Annual Report filing each year, ensuring your state paperwork is always up to date.
2. Submit IRS Form 990
Every 501(c)(3) organization must file IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N (e-Postcard) annually, depending on revenue:
Form 990-N: For organizations with gross receipts under $50,000.
Form 990-EZ: For nonprofits with gross receipts under $200,000 and total assets under $500,000.
Form 990: For larger organizations exceeding those thresholds.
Failing to file for three consecutive years automatically revokes your tax-exempt status.
3. Renew Charitable Solicitation Registration
If your organization solicits donations in multiple states, you may need to renew your charitable registration annually in each one. This ensures transparency and protects your ability to fundraise legally.
Governance Requirements: Board Meetings and Bylaws
Strong governance builds credibility and demonstrates accountability.
- Review and update your bylaws annually or whenever your structure changes.
- Hold regular board meetings—at least once per year, though quarterly meetings are best practice.
- Document every meeting to keep track of decisions, votes, and actions taken.
ComplianceGuard's MinutesManager feature simplifies record-keeping by organizing and storing all meeting minutes in one secure dashboard.
Amendments and Organizational Changes
If your nonprofit's name, purpose, or leadership changes, you'll often need to file an amendment with your state to keep your records accurate.
Beacon's ComplianceGuard covers one free amendment filing per year, helping you stay compliant when your mission evolves.
State-Specific Nonprofit Compliance Requirements
Each state sets its own compliance schedule and renewal process. Common state requirements include:
- Registered agent updates
- Annual report due dates
- Charitable registration renewals
- State tax exemption renewals (if separate from federal)
Before each filing season, check your Secretary of State and Attorney General websites—or let Beacon handle it for you through automated alerts and filings.
Simple Nonprofit Compliance Timeline
Time Frame | Compliance Task | Who Files It
Within 90 Days | Initial Report (if required) | Founder or Beacon
Annually | State Annual Report | Beacon or Organization
Annually | IRS Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N | Organization or CPA
Annually | Charitable Registration Renewal | Organization
Ongoing | Board Meetings & Minutes | Secretary or Beacon's MinutesManager
As Needed | Amendments or Bylaw Updates | Beacon or Organization
Why Compliance Matters
Maintaining compliance isn't just about avoiding penalties—it's about protecting your mission. Staying current:
- Preserves your 501(c)(3) status with the IRS.
- Builds trust with donors and grantmakers.
- Keeps your nonprofit eligible for certain state and federal funding.
- Demonstrates transparency to your community and board.
Maintain Compliance with Beacon
Managing ongoing compliance doesn't have to feel overwhelming. Beacon can help you through ComplianceGuard, which includes:
- One free Initial Report (if required)
- One free Annual Report each year
- One free Amendment per year
- MinutesManager to organize board meeting records
- Automated reminders and secure document storage
Stay Compliant With Beacon or Talk to a Specialist today to safeguard your nonprofit's good standing, so you can focus on creating impact, not chasing deadlines.