Step-by-Step Tax Filing for California Non-Profits: A Complete 990-N Guide

For non-profit organizations in California, the process of filing annual tax reports can seem daunting. However, it's a necessary step to ensure your organization maintains its tax-exempt status and complies with state regulations. Non-profits in California with total annual receipts under $50,000 have specific forms they need to file with both federal and state government bodies. Federally, these organizations are required to file Form 990-N, also known as the e-Postcard, with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). For state requirements, these organizations must file Form 199 (or 199-N for those eligible) with the California Franchise Tax Board and additionally complete the annual registration renewal with the Attorney General of California, using forms RRF-1 and CT-TR-1.

Navigating these requirements can be complex, but 990.tax is here to simplify the process. Our service assists non-profit organizations by consolidating all necessary submissions into one straightforward, user-friendly platform. Let’s walk through the steps to ensure your non-profit meets its filing obligations smoothly with 990.tax.

Step 1: Start by logging into 990.tax (if you already have an account) or begin typing the name or EIN of your non-profit organization to create a new account.

Step 2: Select the tax year for which you are filing. If your receipts for the year are under $50,000, you will be filing Form 990-N.

Step 3: Verify pre-filled and fill out any missing 990-N form information.

Step 4: For non-profits in California, additional state requirements apply. Our service guides you through these steps effortlessly.

Step 5: Great job! You’ve entered all information about your non-profit finances. The final step is to provide information about yourself.

Step 6: Review the filing for the California Franchise Tax Board. You qualify for Form 199-N, but Form 199 will be filed electronically. No further action is needed here—simply review and click “File and Pay.”

Step 7: Authorize 990.tax to transmit your tax return by electronically signing the e-file authorization form 8453-EO.

Step 8: Once filed, you will receive a confirmation email from [email protected], indicating that your returns have been accepted by both the IRS and the California Franchise Tax Board.

Step 9: Download copies of the transmitted forms from the “Filings” section for your records.

Step 10: Don’t forget to file the annual registration renewal with the Attorney General of California. Download, print, sign, and mail forms RRF-1 and CT-TR-1, along with a check for the renewal fee (in this example, $25) to:

Completing these steps ensures that your California non-profit organization fulfills its filing obligations efficiently. Thank you for choosing 990.tax as your partner in this important process.