IRS Form 990 is the tax document that federally tax-exempt organizations file each year with the IRS. This includes charitable nonprofits.

The 990 is a place where organizations can further clarify their mission statement, along with listing what organizations they have given to in the past. 990s are often used for further research. The following can be gleaned from reviewing a Foundation’s 990:

– Current contact information

– Previously funded organizations

– Guidelines for funding

– Board members (perfect to see if you have anyone in common)

– Any collaborations or partnerships they are involved in

Further reading:

https://candid.org/research-and-verify-nonprofits/990-finder/demystifying-the-990-pf

https://learn.guidestar.org/help/highlights-of-irs-form-990

https://grantspace.org/resources/knowledge-base/historical-returns/