Like all nonprofits, associations and membership organizations must disclose a great deal about their finances, governance, and operations to the IRS on the annual Form 990. But the IRS is not the only audience for this information. Donors, members, employees, and the public can all access, analyze, and interpret the information on the form.
Speaking at the Fourth Annual CLA National Association Conference, David Trimner, principal in nonprofit tax for CliftonLarsonAllen, reminded association executives that Form 990 is an opportunity to paint a broader picture about the organization, its mission, and its successes.
In this five-minute CLA Talks video from Trimner’s presentation at the conference, he suggests that associations complete Form 990 in a thoughtful and engaging way, anticipate questions from board members, donors, and the media, and highlight specific features that tell the group’s story to various audiences. He says that Form 990 should be viewed as a marketing tool that highlights accomplishments and effective governance, and stimulates productive conversations.
Download Trimner’s full presentation.
View additional installments in the CLA Talks video series.