Changes in the IRS regulations now require all Local Sections to file a report to the IRS by May 15, 2008

Although local sections are covered under the ACS group exemption letter, their finances are not included in the (National) ACS return filings to the IRS. The ACS Local Sections operate as autonomous units of the Society, and, as such maintain independent control over their finances. Therefore, each has the responsibility to file its own separate returns to the IRS in order to maintain their tax-exempt status.

Due to legislative changes, beginning in 2008, all local sections are now required to file any one of the following information returns and the applicable attachments: Form 990 (Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax), 990-EZ Short Form (Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax), or Form 990-N Electronic Notice (e-Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File Form 990 or 990-EZ. The returns covering the tax period ending December 31, 2007 are due to the IRS on May 15, 2008. If you cannot meet the May 15 due date to file the Form 990 or 990-EZ, you can request an extension by filing Form 8868 to the IRS by May 15, 2008.

New in 2008 and Due on May 15, 2008: The Form 990-N, Electronic Notice (e-Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations not Required to File Form 990 or 990-EZ is a new requirement. The first e-Postcards are due May 15, 2008 for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2007. The e-Postcard is due every year by the 15^th day of the 5^th month after the close of your tax year. In previous years, local sections whose gross receipts were $25,000 or less were not required to file an information return (Form 990 or 990-EZ) with the IRS. In 2008, local sections whose gross receipts were $25,000 or less are now required to electronically submit Form 990-N. The Pension Protection Act of 2006 added this filing requirement to ensure that the IRS and potential donors have current information about your organization.

Please remember that the ACS does not file the tax returns for your organization. Each local section is responsible for its own filing. You may obtain IRS forms, form instructions, and publications in the IRS website: http://www.irs.gov/formspubs/index.html or call 1-800-829-3676.

ACS Tax Office Contacts:
Maurice Stutchman
Telephone: 202-872-6306

Larry Rogers
Telephone: 202-872-6177

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