Accountability

Checklist for Accountability

6. Ensure the Accuracy of and Make Public Your Organization's Form 990

Accountability Checklist

  1. Develop a Culture of Accountability and Transparency
  2. Adopt a Statement of Values and Code of Ethics
  3. Adopt a Conflict of Interest Policy
  4. Ensure that the Board of Directors Understands and Can Fulfill Its Financial Responsibilities
  5. Conduct Independent Financial Reviews, Particularly Audits
  6. Ensure the Accuracy of and Make Public Your Organization’s Form 990
  7. Be Transparent.
  8. Establish and Support a Policy on Reporting Suspected Misconduct or Malfeasance (“Whistleblower Protection Policy”)
  9. Remain Current with the Law

Test Your Organization's Accountability IQ

Download Complete Checklist (pdf)

Download Checklist Summary (pdf)

The IRS Form 990, Form 990-EZ, and Form 990-PF is one way that organizations share information about their finances and operations with charity regulators and the public. To be effective, however, its information must be complete, accurate and publicly available. Be sure to have your Form reviewed by your board and signed by your CEO or CFO. Support efforts to improve the quality and timeliness of information about nonprofits by filing your Form electronically with the IRS. And, finally, be sure to post it on your website.

Charitable organizations that file a Form 990, Form 990-EZ, or 990-PF should:

  • Ask your board or an appropriate board committee to review and approve your Form 990 or 990-PF;
  • Ensure your Form 990 or 990-PF is signed by the chief executive officer, the chief financial officer, or the highest ranking officer of your organization; and
  • File your Form 990 or 990-PF electronically and make it available on your website.

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