One of the many useful tools in an organization’s prospect research is 990-PFs. The 990-PF is a Private Foundation’s annual tax return and it lists the foundation’s assets, grants (total grants given and the specific grants) and the board members. The IRS requires every private foundation file a Form 990-PF each year.

This type of information is invaluable when researching where to appeal for grant money. NOZA is proud to facilitate communication between grant makers and grant seekers with its free 990-PF Database. Research up to eight years of 990-PFs.

For more specific tips and information on how to "Be a 990 Private Eye," check out this informative blog. It gives tips on how to best read and interpret a 990-PF. You can also check out Understanding 990-PF Tax Returns training PDF.

Not all tax-exempt organizations are required to file 990 tax returns. Visit the IRS Web site for more tax information on charitable organizations.

Jacqui Higgins
NOZA