Filing annual tax returns, especially Form 990, is more than a compliance exercise for nonprofits — it’s a public-facing document that communicates financial health, governance practices, and organizational integrity. Donors, grantmakers, board members, and regulators all rely on it. Yet, many organizations unknowingly file returns with errors, incomplete disclosures, or reporting that misrepresents their activities.

Our Return Review / Second Opinion service provides nonprofits with an expert, independent assessment of their tax filings before or after submission. We examine the return line by line, focusing on compliance accuracy, transparency of financial presentation, and alignment with the organization’s mission and story. We highlight risks, uncover opportunities for stronger reporting, and provide actionable recommendations to enhance both accuracy and perception.

What makes J. van Melle’s approach unique is the combination of:

• Specialized Nonprofit Expertise — We understand the nuances of nonprofit tax law, including unrelated business income, program vs. administrative allocations, public support tests, and donor disclosure requirements.
• Narrative & Compliance Integration — We ensure your return not only meets IRS standards but also reflects your mission in a way that builds donor and stakeholder confidence.
• Independent Clarity — As an outside advisor, we bring an unbiased perspective, giving boards and leadership assurance that nothing has been overlooked.
• Proactive Risk Mitigation — We flag areas that could trigger IRS inquiries, state-level compliance issues, or donor scrutiny, reducing future exposure.

Internal Federal Compliance Review
If your Form 990 is already completed, our experts will examine the completeness and accuracy of its reporting for cohesiveness and adherence to IRS requirements to identify and correct any potential concerns prior to finalizing and submitting to the IRS.

The result is more than a corrected return — it’s a document that reinforces credibility, protects your reputation, and helps your nonprofit sustain the trust it depends on.