For many nonprofit organizations across the Central Valley, May 15 is one of the most important compliance deadlines of the year. While nonprofits are exempt from federal income tax, they are still required to file annual informational returns and maintain strict compliance at both the federal and state levels.
At DeMera DeMera Cameron, we work closely with nonprofit organizations throughout Fresno, Clovis, and the broader Central Valley to ensure they stay compliant while continuing to focus on their mission.
Missing this deadline or filing incorrectly can result in penalties, loss of tax-exempt status, and unnecessary scrutiny.
Here is what your organization needs to know before the May 15 deadline and how to stay on track.
What Is Due on May 15 for Nonprofits
Most tax-exempt organizations operate on a calendar year and must file their annual return by May 15. Depending on the size and structure of your organization, this may include:
- Form 990 for larger nonprofits
- Form 990-EZ for mid-sized organizations
- Form 990-N (e-Postcard) for smaller nonprofits
- Form 990-PF for private foundations
These filings are not just routine paperwork. They provide transparency into your organization’s finances, governance, and operations. They are also publicly accessible, meaning donors, grantors, and regulators can review them at any time.
Federal and California Requirements
Nonprofits in California must comply with both federal and state filing requirements.
At the federal level, organizations must file the appropriate Form 990 with the IRS.
Failure to file for three consecutive years will result in automatic revocation of tax-exempt status.
At the state level, nonprofits may also need to file:
- Form 199 with the California Franchise Tax Board
- Annual filings with the California Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts
At DeMera DeMera Cameron, we regularly help Central Valley nonprofits navigate both federal and California compliance requirements to avoid missed filings and penalties.
Common Nonprofit Filing Mistakes
Many nonprofit organizations run into problems not because they intend to, but because compliance is more complex than expected. Some of the most common mistakes include:
- Filing the wrong version of Form 990
- Reporting inaccurate or incomplete financial data
- Missing required state filings
- Failing to track restricted funds properly
- Waiting until the last minute to prepare documentation
If your organization is experiencing any of these challenges, it may be time to strengthen your compliance process before deadlines become an issue.
Working with a firm like DeMera DeMera Cameron helps reduce these risks by ensuring your filings are accurate, complete, and submitted on time.
Why Nonprofit Accounting Requires Specialized Expertise
Nonprofit accounting is fundamentally different from for-profit accounting. It requires an understanding of:
- Fund accounting and restricted vs. unrestricted funds
- Grant tracking and reporting requirements
- Board governance and financial transparency
- Compliance across multiple agencies
At DDC, we understand the operational and reporting challenges nonprofits face and provide accounting systems that support long-term sustainability, not just year-end filing.
How DeMera DeMera Cameron Supports Central Valley Nonprofits
DeMera DeMera Cameron provides comprehensive support for nonprofit organizations across the Central Valley, including:
- Nonprofit accounting and financial reporting
- Bookkeeping services tailored to nonprofit structures
- Preparation and filing of federal Form 990 returns
- California state compliance and filings
- Advisory services to support long-term planning
Our team works as a partner to your organization, helping ensure compliance while giving you the clarity needed to make informed financial decisions year-round.
Do You Need an Extension?
If your organization is not ready to file by May 15, you can request an extension using Form 8868. This provides an automatic six-month extension to file your return. However, it is important to understand that an extension applies to filing, not responsibility. Your financial records still need to be accurate and complete.
At DeMera DeMera Cameron, we help nonprofits evaluate whether filing or extending is the best decision based on their current financial position.
Work With a Central Valley CPA Firm That Understands Nonprofits
Nonprofit organizations play a critical role in supporting communities across the Central Valley. Your financial systems and compliance strategy should support that mission, not slow it down.
Make sure your organization is prepared before the deadline.
Contact DDC today to ensure your filings are accurate, compliant, and aligned with your long-term goals.
Frequently Asked Questions About Nonprofit Tax Deadlines
What happens if a nonprofit misses the May 15 deadline?
If a nonprofit fails to file on time, it may face penalties. If it does not file for three consecutive years, it will automatically lose its tax-exempt status with the IRS.
Do all nonprofits have to file Form 990?
Yes. Most tax-exempt organizations must file some version of Form 990 depending on their size and revenue.
Do California nonprofits have additional filing requirements?
Yes. California nonprofits often must file Form 199 with the Franchise Tax Board and submit reports to the Attorney General’s Registry of Charitable Trusts.
Can a nonprofit file an extension?
Yes. Nonprofits can request a six-month extension using Form 8868.
Why should nonprofits work with DeMera DeMera Cameron?
DeMera DeMera Cameron provides specialized nonprofit accounting, compliance, and advisory services tailored to Central Valley organizations, helping reduce risk and support long-term financial health.