Introduction
In order to make informed decisions about donating to a non-profit organization, it is important to understand how the organization is managing its finances. A financial statement can provide valuable insights into the organization’s operations, including its income, expenses, assets, liabilities, and cash flow. In this article, we will discuss how to find a non-profit financial statement.
Contact the Non-Profit
The first step in finding a non-profit financial statement is to contact the organization itself. You can usually find the contact information for a non-profit on its website or through a search engine. Once you have located the contact information, you can reach out to the organization and ask for a financial statement.
Check the Non-Profit’s Website
Many non-profits post their financial statements on their websites. The documents may be listed under “About Us” or “Financials”. If the organization does not have a website, you may be able to find the financial statement by searching the Internet for the organization’s name and “financial statement”.
Look Up IRS Tax Filings
The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires all non-profits to file an annual tax return known as Form 990. This form provides detailed information about the organization’s income, expenses, assets, liabilities, and cash flow. You can access Form 990 through the IRS website or by searching the Internet for the organization’s name and “Form 990”.
Search SEC Filings
If the non-profit is publicly traded, it is required to file periodic reports with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). These reports include financial statements that provide detailed information about the organization’s finances. You can access the SEC filings through the SEC website or by searching the Internet for the organization’s name and “SEC filing”.
Check Local Government Sites
Some local governments maintain websites that list the financial information of non-profits in their jurisdiction. You can search the website for the organization’s name or look for a section dedicated to non-profits. Most local government sites will also provide contact information if you need to request a financial statement from the organization.
Search Online Databases
There are several online databases that allow you to search for non-profit financial statements. Popular resources include GuideStar, Charity Navigator, and Foundation Center. These databases often provide both basic and detailed financial information about non-profits.
Consult an Expert
If you are unable to find a financial statement on your own, you may want to consider consulting an expert. An experienced accountant or financial advisor can help you understand the organization’s financial statements and provide advice on how to best use the information. They can also help you identify potential red flags or areas of concern.
Conclusion
Finding a non-profit financial statement can be a daunting task, but it is possible with some research. The key is to know where to look. Start by contacting the non-profit directly and asking for a financial statement. You can also check the organization’s website, look up IRS tax filings, search SEC filings, consult local government sites, search online databases, and consult an expert. With these tips, you should be able to locate the financial information you need to make an informed decision about donating to a non-profit.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)