Advantages of e-filing include: efficiency, accuracy, peace of mind, greater ease in multi-state filing, sustainability of the sector, and strengthening public trust. (Read details: http://www.independentsector.org/edin/about_advantages.htm)

A new website serves as a one-stop source for information about the changes, how to, which software supports e-filing, and more! Visit the site to learn more: www.EDINonline.org

(Excerpted from: www.EDINonline.org)
(Washington, DC, October 31, 2003)—In anticipation of the Internal Revenue Service accepting the Form 990 for electronic filing in early 2004, the Electronic Data Initiative for Nonprofits (EDIN) has launched a new website (www.EDINonline.org) to ensure a smooth transition to e-filing of the annual information report used by public charities to file information about their finances and operations with the IRS.

Hosted by INDEPENDENT SECTOR, a nonprofit, nonpartisan coalition of more than 700 national organizations, foundations and corporate philanthropy programs, www.EDINonline.org will provide one-stop access to news and information from the IRS, state charity offices, CPAs, tax preparation software developers, nonprofit organizations, and foundations, as well as consolidate valuable information from other websites.

“At a time when the public and lawmakers are concerned about the ethical behavior of some voluntary and philanthropic organizations, it is more important than ever that our sector meets the highest standards of accountability. Electronic filing of the annual information returns is an important tool to increase transparency and provide more accurate and clear information to both regulators and the public,” said Diana Aviv, president and CEO of INDEPENDENT SECTOR, a leading voice and strong advocate for strengthening the accountability of charities since its founding in 1980.

The Center for Non-Profits is a member of Independent Sector, as well as a member of the National Council for Nonprofit Associations (NCNA), which is on EDIN’s steering committee. Also, Linda Czipo, Center Executive Director, is on the board of NCNA.