Organizations exempt under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code as Social Welfare Organizations can engage in lobbying and also support or oppose candidates running for office (to a limited degree). For this reason, many new organizations tend to be created leading up to an election.
There are some new rules to keep top-of-mind if you’ve formed a Section 501(c)(4) organization recently and have not yet filed an annual report (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N).
Form 8976 needs to be filed electronically on the IRS website. The due date will depend on when your group was formed.
Social welfare organizations formed after July 8, 2016 will need to file Form 8976 within 60 days of formation. Those formed prior to July 8, 2016 who have not yet filed a Form 1024 or Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N will need to file Form 8976 by September 6, 2016.
If you have questions about filing rules and requirements, CSH’s not-for-profit advisors can help.
