Free Wisconsin Form in PDF

Instructions on Writing Wisconsin

After completing a year of soliciting contributions in Wisconsin, charitable organizations are required to submit an annual report to the Department of Financial Institutions – Division of Corporate and Consumer Services. This process, crucial for maintaining transparency and public trust, involves providing detailed financial data and organizational information to comply with state regulations. The following steps outline how to properly fill out and submit this essential document without stapling any part of the submission.

1. Go to the official website www.wdfi.org to download Form #1952.
2. Enter the legal name of your charitable organization, any trade names, or DBA (doing business as) names it uses.
3. Provide the Wisconsin Charitable Organization Number and Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN).
4. Fill in the contact information for the person the Department should reach out to about this form, including their name, address, phone number, and email address.
5. Answer whether your organization used a professional fund-raiser or fund-raising counsel during the fiscal year. If "Yes," provide their contact details. Attach additional pages if necessary.
6. Indicate if any previously submitted information has changed (e.g., name, address, accounting period). If "Yes," attach an explanation and documentation of the amendment.
7. Specify your organization’s fiscal year-end date in the format mm/dd/yyyy.
8. Under Financial Information Section B, detail your organization's contributions (excluding certain exemptions), other revenues, and total revenue.
9. Break down expenses into categories: Program Services, Management and General, Fund-raising, Payments to Affiliates, and total expenses.
10. Calculate the excess or deficit by subtracting total expenses from total revenue.
11. Record net assets at the beginning of the year, other changes in net assets, and net assets at the end of the year.
12. Attach the required documents:
    • A full list of officers, directors, trustees, and principal salaried employees with contact information, excluding department heads.
    • A list of states that have authorized your organization to solicit contributions.
    • IRS Form 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF (excluding Schedule B).
    • Either audited financial statements for contributions over $500,000, or reviewed financial statements for contributions between $300,000 - $499,999, with the option to apply for a waiver under certain conditions.
13. Choose your submission method: Email the form and attachments to DFICharitableOrgs@wi.gov, or mail them to the provided address. You may also fax the documents if preferred.

Following these steps ensures your charitable organization remains in good standing by fulfilling its reporting obligations to the State of Wisconsin. This process not only adheres to legal requirements but also showcases your organization's commitment to transparency and accountability.

What is the purpose of FORM #1952I in Wisconsin?

FORM #1952I serves as a required annual financial report for charitable organizations that are registered to solicit contributions in Wisconsin. It ensures that the financial activities of these organizations are transparent and adhere to the guidelines set forth by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions – Division of Corporate and Consumer Services.

Who is required to file FORM #1952I?

Any charitable organization registered to solicit contributions in Wisconsin and that files an IRS 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF must complete and file FORM #1952I. This form is not suitable for organizations filing an IRS Form 990-N, who instead must use either Form #1943 or Form #308.

When should FORM #1952I be filed?

The annual financial report must be submitted within 12 months after the end of the organization's fiscal year. This timing ensures the most recent fiscal information is provided, maintaining the organization's compliance with state regulations.

What should be included with FORM #1952I when filing?

Along with the completed FORM #1952I, organizations must include their IRS 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF without Schedule B, a list of board directors, officers, and trustees with their details, a list of states where the organization is authorized to solicit contributions, and depending on the amount of contributions received, either an audited or reviewed financial statement prepared according to Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP).

How can FORM #1952I be submitted?

The form can be submitted either via email to DFICharitableOrgs@wi.gov or by mailing it to the postal address provided in the form instructions. Organizations may also contact the division via phone or fax for further assistance.

Are there any specific instructions about stapling documents?

Yes, the instructions specifically advise against stapling any part of the submission. This likely facilitates easier processing and prevents documents from being damaged or lost.

What if a charitable organization's information has changed?

If there have been changes to any previously submitted information, such as the organization's name or address, the organization must attach an explanation and a copy of the amended document along with their FORM #1952I.

Is it necessary to report the use of professional fund-raisers or counsel?

Yes, organizations that have used professional fund-raisers or fund-raising counsel during the fiscal year in Wisconsin must provide contact information for each. This includes names, addresses, phone numbers, and clearly indicating whether these professionals had custody of contributions at any time.

How are contributions defined in the context of this form?

Contributions are defined as grants or pledges of money, credit, property, or other things of value to a charitable organization or for a charitable purpose. This definition excludes income from bingo or raffles, government grants, and fees or dues paid by members, under certain conditions.

What are the requirements for financial statements based on contributions received?

Organizations that receive $500,000 or more in contributions during their fiscal year are required to submit an audited financial statement. Those receiving between $300,000 and $499,999 are required to submit either a reviewed or audited financial statement, according to GAAP. Waivers for these requirements may be applied for under specific conditions.

Filling out the Wisconsin Form #1952 can sometimes be a complex and detail-oriented task that may lead to errors if not done with care. One of the most common mistakes people make when completing this form is not attaching all required schedules and attachments, excluding Schedule B of the IRS 990, as explicitly stated. This oversight can lead to incomplete submissions, which may delay the processing of the form.

Another frequent error is submitting stapled documents, despite the clear instruction "DO NOT STAPLE". This may seem trivial, but non-compliance with submission guidelines could result in processing delays or even require the resubmission of documents, further complicating the filing process for charitable organizations.

Organizations often neglect to update their list of officers, directors, trustees, and principal salaried employees. This list is essential for keeping the State of Wisconsin's records current and ensuring transparency in the operations of charitable organizations. Inaccuracies or outdated information here can misrepresent the organization's governance and potentially affect its standing.

Incorrect financial declaration is another area where mistakes are made. Charitable organizations sometimes misreport their received contributions or misclassify their expenses among program services, management, and fundraising. Accurate financial reporting is crucial for compliance and for the public's trust in how an organization manages its resources. Misreporting, whether unintentional or not, can lead to scrutiny and possible legal implications.

Last but certainly not least, failure to submit the form within 12 months after the organization's fiscal year-end is a mistake that could have significant consequences. This deadline is set to ensure timely oversight of charitable activities within the state. Late submissions can result in penalties, fees, or in severe cases, the revocation of the organization's registration to solicit contributions in Wisconsin. It's imperative for organizations to mark this deadline prominently and ensure all submission requirements are met well in advance.

When filing the Wisconsin Form #1952, a Supplement to Financial Report for charitable organizations, several other essential documents and forms are often used in tandem to ensure comprehensive compliance and transparency in nonprofit operations. The understanding of these documents can significantly aid organizations in navigating the financial and legal intricacies of charitable activities in Wisconsin.

• IRS Form 990: This is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) form used by tax-exempt organizations to provide the IRS with annual financial information. It includes details about the organization’s missions, programs, and finances.
• IRS Form 990-EZ: A shorter version of the Form 990, intended for tax-exempt organizations with gross receipts of less than $200,000 and total assets of less than $500,000 at the end of their tax year.
• IRS Form 990-PF: Filed by private foundations in the U.S., this form provides information on the foundation's assets, financial activities, and compliance with IRS requirements for private foundations.
• Change of Information Form: This form is used to report any changes in the information previously submitted to the Division, such as changes in the organization’s name, address, or the board of directors.
• Application for Exemption: For organizations not yet recognized as tax-exempt, the Application for Exemption (often IRS Form 1023 for charities) is necessary. While not directly tied to the annual supplemental financial report, obtaining recognized tax-exempt status impacts the obligations and filing requirements at the state level.

Together, these documents form the backbone of a charitable organization's legal and financial transparency and accountability in Wisconsin. Their careful preparation and timely submission not only keep organizations in good standing but also reinforce the trust and confidence of supporters, regulatory bodies, and the general public.

The Wisconsin Form #1952 is closely related to the IRS Form 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF, which are required by the Internal Revenue Service for tax-exempt organizations. Both sets of forms are designed to gather detailed financial information, including revenues, expenses, and net assets. However, the Wisconsin form specifically requires this information for charitable organizations soliciting contributions within the state, incorporating state regulations alongside federal tax obligations. What distinguishes them is the added requirement on the Wisconsin form for a list of board members and states where the organization is authorized to solicit contributions.

Similar to the Wisconsin Form #1952, the Unified Registration Statement (URS) serves as a consolidated document for charitable organizations to register in multiple states. Although the URS aims at streamlining multi-state registration by compiling the common elements of several states' registration requirements into one form, Wisconsin's form incorporates state-specific stipulations, including the provision of financial statements based on contribution levels and a detailed listing of officers and directors. Both documents ultimately facilitate regulatory compliance for charitable fundraising activities, but the URS seeks broader applicability across states.

The California Form CT-1, Annual Registration Renewal Fee Report, shares objectives with the Wisconsin Form #1952 by requiring charitable organizations to submit annual financial reports and maintain updated registration information. Both forms ensure transparency in the operations of charitable entities and seek to provide the public and regulatory bodies with current organizational information. The critical difference lies in the state-specific financial thresholds and accompanying documents defined by California's guidelines, highlighting the variation in state-level regulatory approaches to nonprofit oversight.

The New York CHAR500, Annual Filing for Charitable Organizations, is another document with a purpose parallel to the Wisconsin Form #1952. This form mandates annual financial reporting from nonprofits operating within the state of New York, detailing revenue, expenses, and activities similar to Wisconsin's requirements. Both forms necessitate the inclusion of federal tax forms (like the IRS Form 990) and additional state-specific information to oversee charitable activities effectively. Yet, the CHAR500 also requires attachments that may include auditing statements, similarly dependent on the organization's financial breadth, which underscores the common intention among states to ensure financial transparency and accountability in the nonprofit sector.

Florida's Charitable Organizations/Sponsors Annual Report Form emphasizes financial accountability and transparency of nonprofits soliciting within the state, echoing the intentions behind Wisconsin's Form #1952. Both documents require detailed fiscal information and a list of key officials but differ in the depth of data collection and state-specific compliance particulars. For example, while the Wisconsin form asks for a list of states where the organization is licensed to solicit donations, Florida's focus may lean more towards in-state activities and compliance with Florida statutes, showcasing the tailored approach each state adopts regarding charitable oversight.

Illinois’ Form AG990-IL, Annual Financial Report of Charitable Organization, shares similarities with the Wisconsin Form #1952 by requiring detailed financial disclosures from charities operating within the state. Both forms are essential tools for state authorities to monitor the financial integrity and operational transparency of nonprofits. While they necessitate comprehensive financial reporting, including revenues and expenses, Illinois' form highlights the state's specific requirements, such as mandatory disclosing of contracts with professional fundraisers, underscoring the nuanced regulatory landscape differing across states.

The Pennsylvania Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations’ BCO-10, Registration Statement, parallels the Wisconsin Form #1952 in its function to oversee charities within state boundaries. Both documents compile organizational, financial, and operational data to aid in state-level regulation of charitable activities. The inclusion of financial statements, operational details, and lists of key personnel in both forms points towards a universal effort by states to safeguard public interest and ensure the responsible management of charitable resources, albeit with state-specific regulatory nuances.

Filling out any official form requires careful attention to detail to ensure compliance and accuracy. When completing the Wisconsin Form #1952 for charitable organizations, there are specific dos and don'ts that can help streamline the process and avoid common pitfalls. Below are four key points to consider:

• Provide Accurate Organization Information: Ensure that the name of the charitable organization, any DBA (doing business as) names, Wisconsin Charitable Organization Number, and Federal Employer Identification Number are correctly filled in. Accurate identification is crucial for the state's record-keeping and any future correspondence.
• Include Required Attachments: Attach all required documents, such as the IRS 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF forms (excluding Schedule B), a full list of the organization's board of directors, officers, and trustees with their contact information, and a list of states that have issued a license or formal authorization to solicit contributions. Ensure these documents are complete and up-to-date.
• File Within the Designated Deadline: Submit the annual financial report to the Division of Corporate and Consumer Services within 12 months after the organization's fiscal year-end. Timely filing is essential to remain in good standing and avoid potential penalties.
• Utilize Available Filing Methods: Take advantage of the multiple filing methods offered, including email, mail, phone, or fax. Choose the method that is most convenient and reliable for your organization to ensure the documentation is received before the deadline.

• Staple Documents: Do not staple any part of the submission, as this can interfere with the processing of your form. Keeping documents unstapled ensures they can be easily handled and reviewed by the Department of Financial Institutions staff.
• Include Schedule B of IRS Form 990: When attaching your IRS 990 forms, remember not to include Schedule B. This form is not required by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and should be omitted from your submission.
• Overlook Board and Employee Listings: Avoid the mistake of forgetting to attach a current list of all officers, directors, trustees, and principal salaried employees. This list is essential for a comprehensive understanding of your organization's administrative structure.
• Ignore Financial Statement Requirements: Do not disregard the instructions regarding financial statements. If your organization has received contributions within certain thresholds ($300,000 - $499,999 or $500,000 and above), submitting reviewed or audited financial statements is mandatory unless a waiver is applicable and granted.

Understanding the requirements and expectations for charitable organizations in Wisconsin is crucial for maintaining compliance and ensuring the continued ability to support the community. However, several misconceptions can complicate this process. By clarifying these misunderstandings, organizations can better navigate their obligations and focus on their mission.

• Many believe that only organizations based in Wisconsin must file the annual financial report using Form #1952, overlooking that any charitable organization registered to solicit contributions in Wisconsin, regardless of where they are based, has this filing requirement.

• Another common misconception is that all nonprofits must submit Form #1952. In reality, only those that file an IRS 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF are required to use this form, excluding entities that file an IRS Form 990-N, which necessitates different documentation.

• Some presume that the only document needed for submission is Form #1952 itself, unaware that a supplement to the financial report, IRS forms (excluding Schedule B), and a comprehensive list of officers are also mandated for a complete submission.

• Organizations sometimes mistakenly think they can staple their documents for submission, although the form clearly instructs not to staple any parts of the submission to ensure that documents can be easily separated and processed.

• There's a misconception that the form and accompanying documentation can be submitted at any time, whereas they must be filed within 12 months after the organization’s fiscal year-end to remain in good standing.

• It is erroneously believed by some that financial reports submitted to other states or the IRS exempt them from filing in Wisconsin, not understanding that Wisconsin's requirements are specific and independent of other filings.

• A false assumption exists that email and fax are the only acceptable ways to submit the form, ignoring that it can also be mailed, which might be preferable for organizations compiling a large number of documents.

• There’s a misunderstanding about the necessity of listing all states where the organization is authorized to solicit contributions, with some organizations either omitting this information or not realizing it should be included.

• Another common error lies in the belief that audited financial statements are always required for submission, when in fact they are only mandatory for organizations that have received contributions exceeding specific thresholds within a fiscal year.

• Lastly, the misconception that the list of officers, directors, and trustees must be submitted separately, even when this information is included in the IRS 990 forms that are attached, can lead to unnecessary duplication of effort.

By addressing these misconceptions, charitable organizations can improve their understanding of the filing requirements in Wisconsin, ensuring they remain compliant and able to effectively contribute to their causes.

Filing the Wisconsin form #1952 is crucial for registered charitable organizations soliciting contributions within the state. It helps maintain transparency and ensures compliance with local regulations. Here are key takeaways to remember when preparing and submitting this form:

• Know Who Must File: If your charitable organization is registered to solicit contributions in Wisconsin and files an IRS 990, 990EZ, or 990-PF, you'll need to complete form #1952. This requirement underscores the importance of understanding which documents your organization is obligated to file based on your financial activities and registration status.
• Understand When to File: An essential aspect of compliance is timing. Your organization must submit the annual financial report to the Division of Corporate and Consumer Services within 12 months following the end of your fiscal year. Adhering to this deadline prevents any potential lapses in registration or penalties for late submission.
• Prepare the Necessary Documentation: Gathering and preparing the required documents in advance can streamline the filing process. This preparation includes the Form 1952 itself, relevant IRS forms (excluding Schedule B), a comprehensive list of your board of directors, officers, and trustees with their contact information, and lists of states where you're authorized to solicit contributions. Notably, organizations with contributions exceeding certain thresholds must also include audited or reviewed financial statements, emphasizing the need for accurate and GAAP-compliant financial record-keeping.
• Select the Proper Filing Method: The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions offers multiple avenues for submitting your completed forms, including email, mail, fax, and phone. This flexibility allows your organization to choose the most convenient filing method, but always ensure the information is secure, especially when sending sensitive financial data.

Understanding these key aspects of the Wisconsin form #1952 ensures that charitable organizations can comply efficiently with state regulations, contributing to a transparent and responsible non-profit sector in Wisconsin.