IRS Publication 526 explains how to claim a deduction for charitable contributions and discusses: organizations qualified to receive deductions, the types of contributions that can be deducted, how much can be deducted, what records to keep, and how to report deductions. (IRS)
The number of staff at a nonprofit determines which provisions of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) it must follow. Specifically, whether your nonprofit has 50 or more "full-time equivalent employees" (as defined in the ACA) dictates which version of Form 1095 you must complete and determines eligibility to apply for a "small employer health care tax credit."
What is fiscal sponsorship? How do I find a fiscal sponsor? - "Fiscal sponsorship is a formal arrangement in which a 501(c)(3) public charity sponsors a project that may lack exempt status. This alternative to starting your own nonprofit allows you to seek grants and solicit tax-deductible donations under your sponsor's exempt status. [...] Since most grantmakers give to organizations, not individuals, fiscal sponsorship may help you qualify for more funding opportunities.
"An effective recordkeeping system enables an organization to monitor the progress of programs and aid in the preparation of financial statements and returns. If an organization does not keep required records, it may be unable to show it qualifies for exemption. Thus, the organization may lose its tax-exempt status. In addition, an organization may be unable to complete its returns accurately and may be subject to penalties."
The North Carolina Center for Nonprofits went through the process to select and contract with an expert practitioner on equity, diversity, and inclusion to facilitate our organization's internal equity work.
Even with a clear fundraising plan in place, nonprofits sometimes can find themselves temporarily short of cash, due to unforeseen circumstances like disasters or delays in payments. The Foundation Center does not provide grants, recommend specific funders, or approach them on your behalf, but they can point you to resources to find possible funders and useful advice. (Grantspace)
Planning to start an endowment? Read this series of articles by Kim Klein for Grassroots Fundraising Journal to find answers to your questions about whether it is appropriate for your situation and how to best go about establishing an endowment.
Your Form 990 asks whether a nonprofit has a "gift acceptance policy" that requires the review of any "non-standard gifts" (gifts other than cash or check). Additionally, a written gift acceptance policy can help manage the expectations of donors, (while treating them with respect) and also serve as guidance for board and staff members who are either on the asking, or receiving, end of contributions.
Ethical standards and principles are the foundation for maintaining public trust in your organization and the nonprofit sector as a whole. The Association of Fundraising Professionals (AFP) first published its code of ethical standards for fundraising professionals in 1964, and "believes that ethical behavior fosters the development and growth of fundraising professionals and the fundraising profession, and enhances philanthropy and volunteerism."