Nonprofit organizations have unique missions and purposes, often dedicated to bettering society. However, even the best-intentioned organizations can face significant compliance and regulatory risks if they’re not proactive in managing their responsibilities. Compliance can be complex and continuously evolving, with nonprofit-specific obligations surrounding tax-exempt status, charitable solicitation laws, reporting and filing requirements, and governance. Here, we’ll explore three major areas of compliance risk and offer strategies to help nonprofits navigate them effectively.

Adapting to Changing Laws and Regulations

Laws and regulations that impact nonprofits can change frequently at federal, state, and local levels. Staying informed about these updates is crucial to maintaining tax-exempt status and protecting the organization from penalties.

For example, a nonprofit’s tax-exempt status hinges on compliance with IRS regulations, which are updated periodically. Nonprofits should continuously monitor for any changes that might impact their activities, particularly as they expand programs or geographical reach. Additionally, many states have charitable solicitation laws that require nonprofits to register before soliciting donations. Non-compliance can lead to penalties, revoked licenses, or even loss of tax-exempt status.

Strategies:

    • Regular Legal Review: Establish regular reviews with legal experts who specialize in nonprofit law to assess compliance in all operating states.
    • Board Education: Educate board members on regulatory changes and their implications, helping them make informed decisions.
    • Compliance Officer or Committee: If resources allow, appoint a dedicated compliance officer or form a committee to monitor legal updates.

Meeting Reporting and Filing Requirements

Reporting and filing requirements for nonprofits are rigorous, with specific guidelines from the IRS, federal entities, and individual states. These requirements not only maintain the organization’s good standing but also demonstrate transparency and accountability to donors and stakeholders.

Nonprofits are required to file Form 990 with the IRS annually, disclosing detailed information about finances, mission activities, and governance practices. Some states also require specific filings, particularly if the organization is registered to solicit funds. Accurate, timely, and transparent reporting can be challenging, but it’s essential to avoid penalties and maintain donor trust.

Strategies:

    • Calendar and Alerts System: Implement a calendar that tracks all filing deadlines at federal, state, and local levels, with automated reminders to avoid missed deadlines.
    • Robust Documentation: Maintain organized and detailed financial records and internal documentation, making it easier to prepare accurate reports.
    • Third-Party Audit: Consider an independent audit of financial statements to validate accuracy and reinforce financial transparency.

Governance and Transparency Expectations

Governance and transparency are cornerstones of building trust with donors, beneficiaries, and the community at large. Strong governance policies not only help prevent fraud and misuse of funds but also fulfill legal requirements for nonprofits to operate ethically and in the public interest.

Transparency goes beyond financial reporting. Many donors, particularly major funders, expect to see comprehensive governance practices that include ethical guidelines, conflict-of-interest policies, and a commitment to diversity and inclusion. The board of directors plays a critical role in upholding these standards, with the responsibility to steer the organization ethically and strategically.

Strategies:

  • Establish Clear Policies: Create or update policies on conflict of interest, whistleblower protections, and board diversity, and communicate these policies to all members.
  • Regular Governance Training: Provide ongoing training for board members on governance best practices and their legal responsibilities.
  • Open Communication: Proactively communicate with donors and stakeholders about the organization’s goals, achievements, and challenges. Transparency about the organization’s impact and operations helps maintain trust.

Conclusion

In an era of heightened scrutiny and evolving laws, nonprofits must actively manage compliance and regulatory risks. By staying on top of changing laws, adhering to reporting requirements, and implementing strong governance practices, nonprofits can protect their tax-exempt status, preserve donor trust, and focus on achieving their mission. Proactive compliance not only shields the organization from risks but also fosters the transparency and accountability essential to thriving in today’s nonprofit landscape.