The initial spark that ignited your passion for your nonprofit – the unwavering dedication to a cause, the desire to make a real difference – remains vibrant. However, navigating the intricacies of tax-exempt status can sometimes feel like entering unfamiliar territory, when trying to keep up with updated regulations to keep your organization qualified for its tax-exempt status. Let’s shed some light on the path towards tax-exempt status and what you need to do to maintain it once you get there.

You're on a mission to make the world a better place, one good deed at a time. Whether you're helping the unhoused, promoting the arts, or anything in between, your work is vital. Still, as a non-profit, ensuring you stay on top of financial responsibilities is critical. Here’s what you need to know about empowering your non-profit charity to unlock the benefits of 501(c)(3) status, ensure tax exemptions, and maintain the trust of your supporters - and how to determine the classification of a non-profit organization.

When the IRS instituted annual reporting requirements for non-profit organizations, you might have thought they were bringing the famous Oscar Wilde quote ("No good deed goes unpunished") to fruition. While the need to track the progress of 501(c) organizations may cause some headaches, it can be a timely opportunity to effectively review the goals of the mission and ensure that good governance practices are in place. Here’s everything non-profit managers need to know to prepare for tax season.

In my work with nonprofit organizations, I see how critical their work is for the health of a community. I am also aware that many struggle with financial challenges. Successful nonprofits tend to have leaders that know how to maximize financial resources. They use concrete strategies to do so.

When I work with nonprofit leaders, I hear about the challenges they face with cash flow. Nonprofits have historically faced a unique funding situation due to the variability of grant funding cycles and donor contributions. I recommend a tool – cash flow projection – that can help organizations maintain financial viability today and in the future.

Nonprofits address critical needs in the community. They promote awareness of issues, provide services that might otherwise be unmet, and can organize a community to make a difference. Unfortunately, nonprofits also tend to struggle with financial challenges. Successful nonprofit leaders, use concrete strategies to maximize financial resources.