Do nonprofits have to reveal donors?
James Craig
Published Feb 28, 2026
Under federal law, nonprofits are generally only required to disclose to the public information about donors who contribute to fund campaign expenditures. State laws, however, may require more disclosure. This article outlines proposed laws governing donor disclosure policy in California.
How do I find out who funds my non profit?
Because the IRS requires public disclosure of donors who have contributed to private foundations, you can find that information in the “Who’s Who” section of the grantmaker profile on Foundation Directory Online (FDO). You can also enter a person’s name in FDO’s “Who’s Who” search filter.
How much money does a nonprofit organization need?
A nonprofit does not need to have less than $5,000 in gross receipts every year to pass this test. It can earn more in some years and still qualify. For purposes of the test, an organization normally does not have more than $5,000 in annual gross receipts if:
Can a non profit organization qualify for tax exempt status?
If your nonprofit organization makes less than $5,000 per year, you may be able to obtain tax-exempt status from the IRS without filing a Form 1023 application. A few types of nonprofits are in the unique (and enviable) position of being able to qualify as tax-exempt Section 501(c)(3) charitable organizations without applying to the IRS.
How does a 501 ( c ) 3 nonprofit make money?
It’s a 501 (c) (3) nonprofit (which means it has a federal tax exemption), organized to encourage the appreciation of literature and to raise money for the support and improvement of the local public library. It makes a profit from a lecture series featuring famous authors and from an annual volunteer-run sale of donated books.
What do philanthropists need to know about Form 990?
A donor can find out where the group gets its revenue. A foundation can see just how sustainable the charity might be. A potential employee can know how well the nonprofit pays its top employees. And a potential board member can see who else is already on the board and what the charity’s cash reserves look like.