Form990
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
Under section 501(c), 527, or 4947(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (except black lung benefit trust or private foundation)

MediumBullet The organization may have to use a copy of this return to satisfy state reporting requirements.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
A For the calendar year, or tax year beginning 01-01-2011 and ending 12-31-2011
BCheck if applicable:
CName of organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Doing Business As
 
 
Number and street (or P.O. box if mail is not delivered to street address)
141 MAIN STREET
 
Room/suite
City or town, state or country, and ZIP + 4
MONTPELIER, VT05602
D Employer identification number

03-0228267
E Telephone number

G Gross receipts $ 1,025,974
F Name and address of principal officer:
MATHEW RUBIN
141 MAIN ST 6
MONTPELIER,VT05602
I
Tax-exempt status: ( 4 ) LeftBullet (insert no.) or
J
Website:MediumBullet
www.vpirg.org
H(a)
Is this a group return for
affiliates?
H(b)
Are all affiliates included?
If "No," attach a list. (see instructions)
H(c)
Group exemption number MediumBullet  
K Form of organization:
 
L Year of formation: 1972
M State of legal domicile: VT
Part I
Summary
Activities & Governance 1 Briefly describe the organization’s mission or most significant activities: VPIRG's mission is to promote and protect the health of Vermont's people, environment and locally-based economy by informing and mobilizing citizens statewide. VPIRG conducts non-partisan public interest advocacy campaigns with the grassroots support of over 30,000 members and supporters. See Page 2 for additional information on VPIRG's mission.
2 Check this box MediumBullet
3 Number of voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1a)..... 3 14
4 Number of independent voting members of the governing body (Part VI, line 1b) .... 4 13
5 Total number of individuals employed in calendar year 2011 (Part V, line 2a) ... 5 130
6 Total number of volunteers (estimate if necessary) .... 6 20
7a Total unrelated business revenue from Part VIII, column (C), line 12 .. 7a 0
b Net unrelated business taxable income from Form 990-T, line 34 .. 7b  
Revenues; Prior Year Current Year
8 Contributions and grants (Part VIII, line 1h) ......... 631,529 730,082
9 Program service revenue (Part VIII, line 2g) ......... 7,000 278,142
10 Investment income (Part VIII, column (A), lines 3, 4, and 7d ) .... 1,762 1,354
11 Other revenue (Part VIII, column (A), lines 5, 6d, 8c, 9c, 10c, and 11e) 10,935 9,383
12 Total revenue—add lines 8 through 11 (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12)................... 651,226 1,018,961
Expenses; 13 Grants and similar amounts paid (Part IX, column (A), lines 1–3 )...   0
14 Benefits paid to or for members (Part IX, column (A), line 4).....   0
15 Salaries, other compensation, employee benefits (Part IX, column (A), lines 5–10) 357,753 568,946
16a Professional fundraising fees (Part IX, column (A), line 11e)..... 20,356 17,169
b Total fundraising expenses (Part IX, column (D), line 25) MediumBullet170,917    
17 Other expenses (Part IX, column (A), lines 11a–11d, 11f–24f).... 350,860 281,143
18 Total expenses. Add lines 13–17 (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) 728,969 867,258
19 Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 18 from line 12....... -77,743 151,703
Net Assets or Fund Balances; Beginning of Current Year End of Year
20 Total assets (Part X, line 16)............. 283,143 524,137
21 Total liabilities (Part X, line 26)............. 18,987 108,278
22 Net assets or fund balances. Subtract line 21 from line 20..... 264,156 415,859
Part II
Signature Block
Under penalties of perjury, I declare that I have examined this return, including accompanying schedules and statements, and to the best of my knowledge and belief, it is true, correct, and complete. Declaration of preparer (other than officer) is based on all information of which preparer has any knowledge.
Sign Here
JumboBullet
Signature of officer Date
JumboBullet
Type or print name and title.
Paid preparer use only
Print/type preparer's name
 
Preparer's signature
Date
PTIN
Firm's name Right pointing arrowhead image

Firm's EIN Right pointing arrowhead image
Firm's address Right pointing arrowhead image



Phone no.
May the IRS discuss this return with the preparer shown above? See instructions .........bullet
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the separate instructions.
Cat. No. 11282Y
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 2
Part III
Statement of Program Service Accomplishments
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part III .........
1
Briefly describe the organization’s mission: VPIRG's mission is to promote and protect the health of Vermont's people, environment and locally-based economy
2
Did the organization undertake any significant program services during the year which were not listed on
the prior Form 990 or 990-EZ? ....................
If “Yes,” describe these new services on Schedule O.
3
Did the organization cease conducting, or make significant changes in how it conducts, any program services? ..........................
If “Yes,” describe these changes on Schedule O.
4
Describe the organization’s program service accomplishments for each of its three largest program services, as measured by expenses. Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations and section 4947(a)(1) trusts are required to report the amount of grants and allocations to others, the total expenses, and revenue, if any, for each program service reported.
4a (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 381,197 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $ 278,142 )
CLEAN ENERGY - VPIRG WORKS TO ADVANCE POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT AIM TO STOP OUR CONTINUED RELIANCE ON FOSSIL FUELS AND OTHER DIRTY ENERGY LIKE NUCLEAR POWER, AND TO DRAMATICALLY INCREASE THE USE OF CLEAN, LOCAL, RENEWABLE ENERGY THAT CAN POWER A CLEAN ENERGY FUTURE FOR VERMONT. TO THIS END IN 2011, VPIRG HELPED PASS H.56, ONE OF THE STRONGEST SOLAR LAWS IN THE COUNTRY, THAT WILL NOT ONLY HELP MORE VERMONTERS BENEFIT FROM GOING SOLAR, BUT ALSO SHIFTS INCENTIVES FOR HEATING OUR HOMES FROM DIRTY FUEL OIL TO CLEANER LOCAL HEATING OPTIONS. WE ALSO CELEBRATED THE CONTINUED RESPONSIBLE DEVELOPMENT OF WIND POWER IN THE STATE WITH THE OPENING OF SHEFFIELD WIND. VPIRG ALSO PIONEERED A REVOLUTIONARY "SOLAR COMMUNITIES" PROGRAM THAT MADE IT EASIER AND MORE AFFORDABLE FOR VERMONTERS TO GO SOLAR, RESULTING IN AN EXPONENTIAL GROWTH (IN SOME CASES AS MUCH AS A 500% INCREASE!) OF HOMES POWERED BY THE SUN IN OUR TARGET COMMUNITIES. VPIRG ALSO CONTINUED TO TAKE PART IN LEGAL PROCEEDINGS REGARDING THE FATE OF THE VERMONT YANKEE NUCLEAR PLANT. AS A PARTY TO THE CASE AND IN SUBSEQUENT APPEALS AND ACTIONS AT THE PUBLIC SERVICE BOARD, VPIRG CONTINUES TO WORK FOR THE IMMEDIATE RETIREMENT OF THIS DIRTY, DANGEROUS AND UNRELIABLE PLANT.
4b (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 115,899 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
HEALTH CARE REFORM - VPIRG WORKS TO IMPLEMENT POLICIES AND PROGRAMS THAT WILL ENSURE THAT ALL VERMONTERS HAVE ACCESS TO QUALITY, AFFORDABLE HEALTH CARE WHEN THEY NEED IT. VPIRG ENVISIONS A DAY WHEN OUR HEALTH CARE SYSTEM IS DRIVEN BY POSITIVE HEALTH OUTCOMES RATHER THAN THE PROFITS OF THE INDUSTRY AND INSURANCE BUREAUCRATS. WE SUPPORT THE FEDERAL REFORM EFFORTS OF THE ACA AS A STEPPING STONE TO A GREEN MOUNTAIN CARE SYSTEM THAT WILL ENABLE VERMONT TO LEAD THE NATION IN THE IMPLEMENTATION OF A SI
4c (Code:   ) (Expenses $ 91,912 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH - VPIRG WORKS TO PROTECT THE PUBLIC HEALTH AND OUR ENVIRONMENT FROM THE HIDDEN DANGERS OF EXPOSURE TO TOXIC CHEMICALS IN OUR EVERYDAY LIVES. VPIRG AIMS TO FUNDAMENTALLY REFORM HOW CHEMICALS ARE REGULATED, ENCOURAGING THE USE OF SAFER ALTERNATIVES WHENEVER POSSIBLE AND MINIMIZING EXPOSURES PARTICULARLY FOR CHILDREN. VPIRG HELPED DRAFT AND PASS LEGISLATION THAT WILL ENSURE THE FREE AND CONVENIENT RECYCLING OF MERCURY-CONTAINING LAMPS. WE ALSO MADE HEADWAY ON PASSING A LAW TO R
(Code:   ) (Expenses $ 20,123 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
Other programs include Democracy & Fair Elections and Consumer Protection. See Schedule O for a and Consumer Protection. See Schedule O for a
4d Other program services (Describe in Schedule O.)
(Expenses $ 20,123 including grants of $   ) (Revenue $   )
4e Total program service expensesMediumBullet$ 609,131
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 3
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules
Yes
No
1
Is the organization described in section 501(c)(3) or 4947(a)(1) (other than a private foundation)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule A.....................
1
 
No
2
Is the organization required to complete Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors? Click to see attachment........
2
Yes
 
3
Did the organization engage in direct or indirect political campaign activities on behalf of or in opposition to candidates for public office? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part I..........
3
 
No
4
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization engage in lobbying activities? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C,
Part II.........................
4
 
No
5
Is the organization a section 501(c)(4), 501(c)(5), or 501(c)(6) organization that receives membership dues, assessments, or similar amounts as defined in Revenue Procedure 98-19? If “Yes,” complete Schedule C, Part IIIClick to see attachment........................
5
Yes
 
6
Did the organization maintain any donor advised funds or any similar funds or accounts for which donors have the right to provide advice on the distribution or investment of amounts in such funds or accounts? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part I....................
6
 
No
7
Did the organization receive or hold a conservation easement, including easements to preserve open space,
the environment, historic land areas or historic structures? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part II...
7
 
No
8
Did the organization maintain collections of works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part III ....................
8
 
No
9
Did the organization report an amount in Part X, line 21; serve as a custodian for amounts not listed in Part X; or provide credit counseling, debt management, credit repair, or debt negotiation services? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule D, Part IV...................
9
 
No
10
Did the organization, directly or through a related organization, hold assets in temporarily restricted endowments, permanent endowments, or quasi-endowments? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part V
10
 
No
11
If the organization’s answer to any of the following questions is ‘Yes,’ then complete Schedule D, Parts VI, VII, VIII, IX, or X as applicable:
a
Did the organization report an amount for land, buildings, and equipment in Part X, line10? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VI.Click to see attachment
11a
Yes
 
b
Did the organization report an amount for investments—other securities in Part X, line 12 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VII.
11b
 
No
c
Did the organization report an amount for investments—program related in Part X, line 13 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part VIII.
11c
 
No
d
Did the organization report an amount for other assets in Part X, line 15 that is 5% or more of its total assets reported in Part X, line 16? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part IX.Click to see attachment
11d
Yes
 
e
Did the organization report an amount for other liabilities in Part X, line 25? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.
11e
 
No
f
Did the organization’s separate or consolidated financial statements for the tax year include a footnote that addresses the organization’s liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC 740)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Part X.
11f
 
No
12a
Did the organization obtain separate, independent audited financial statements for the tax year?
If “Yes,” complete Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII
12a
 
No
b
Was the organization included in consolidated, independent audited financial statements for the tax year? If “Yes,” and if the organization answered ‘No’ to line 12a, then completing Schedule D, Parts XI, XII, and XIII is optional
12b
 
No
13
Is the organization a school described in section 170(b)(1)(A)(ii)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule E
13
 
No
14a
Did the organization maintain an office, employees, or agents outside of the United States?....
14a
 
No
b
Did the organization have aggregate revenues or expenses of more than $10,000 from grantmaking, fundraising, business, investment, and program service activities outside the United States or aggregate foreign investments valued at $100,000 or more? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part I.........
14b
 
No
15
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of grants or assistance to any organization or entity located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part II..
15
 
No
16
Did the organization report on Part IX, column (A), line 3, more than $5,000 of aggregate grants or assistance to individuals located outside the U.S.? If “Yes,” complete Schedule F, Part III..
16
 
No
17
Did the organization report a total of more than $15,000, of expenses for professional fundraising services on Part IX, column (A), lines 6 and 11e? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part IClick to see attachment
17
Yes
 
18
Did the organization report more than $15,000 total of fundraising event gross income and contributions on Part VIII, lines 1c and 8a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part II..........
18
 
No
19
Did the organization report more than $15,000 of gross income from gaming activities on Part VIII, line 9a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule G, Part III...................
19
 
No
20a
Did the organization operate one or more hospitals? If “Yes,” complete Schedule H.....
20a
 
No
b
If “Yes” to line 20a, did the organization attach a copy of its audited financial statement to this return? Note. All Form 990 filers that operated one or more hospitals must attach audited financial statements.
20b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 4
Part IV
Checklist of Required Schedules (continued)
21
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to any government or organization in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 1? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and II..
21
 
No
22
Did the organization report more than $5,000 of grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States on Part IX, column (A), line 2? If “Yes,” complete Schedule I, Parts I and III.....
22
 
No
23
Did the organization answer “Yes” to Part VII, Section A, questions 3, 4, or 5, about compensation of the organization’s current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J................
23
 
No
24a
Did the organization have a tax-exempt bond issue with an outstanding principal amount of more than $100,000 as of the last day of the year, that was issued after December 31, 2002? If “Yes,” answer questions 24b–24d and complete Schedule K. If “No,” go to line 25................
24a
 
No
b
Did the organization invest any proceeds of tax-exempt bonds beyond a temporary period exception?...
24b
 
 
c
Did the organization maintain an escrow account other than a refunding escrow at any time during the year
to defease any tax-exempt bonds?......................
24c
 
 
d
Did the organization act as an “on behalf of” issuer for bonds outstanding at any time during the year?...
24d
 
 
25a
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations. Did the organization engage in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person during the year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I......
25a
 
No
b
Is the organization aware that it engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a disqualified person in a prior year, and that the transaction has not been reported on any of the organization’s prior Forms 990 or 990-EZ? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part I................
25b
 
No
26
Was a loan to or by a current or former officer, director, trustee, key employee, highly compensated employee, or disqualified person outstanding as of the end of the organization’s tax year? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L,
Part II.........................
26
 
No
27
Did the organization provide a grant or other assistance to an officer, director, trustee, key employee, substantial contributor or employee thereof, a grant selection committee member, or to a 35% controlled entity or family member of any of these persons? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part III.........
27
 
No
28
Was the organization a party to a business transaction with one of the following parties? (see Schedule L, Part IV instructions for applicable filing thresholds, conditions, and exceptions):
a
A current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV ......................... Click to see attachment
28a
Yes
 
b
A family member of a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee? If “Yes,”
complete Schedule L, Part IV...................
28b
 
No
c
An entity of which a current or former officer, director, trustee, or key employee (or a family member thereof) was an officer, director, trustee, or owner? If “Yes,” complete Schedule L, Part IV..
28c
 
No
29
Did the organization receive more than $25,000 in non-cash contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M
29
 
No
30
Did the organization receive contributions of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets, or qualified conservation contributions? If “Yes,” complete Schedule M............
30
 
No
31
Did the organization liquidate, terminate, or dissolve and cease operations? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N,
Part I...........................
31
 
No
32
Did the organization sell, exchange, dispose of, or transfer more than 25% of its net assets? If “Yes,” complete Schedule N, Part II.......................
32
 
No
33
Did the organization own 100% of an entity disregarded as separate from the organization under Regulations sections 301.7701-2 and 301.7701-3? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part I........
33
 
No
34
Was the organization related to any tax-exempt or taxable entity? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Parts II, III, IV, and V, line 1..................... Click to see attachment
34
Yes
 
35a
Did the organization have a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)?
35a
Yes
 
b
If ‘Yes’ to line 35a, did the organization receive any payment from or engage in any transaction with a controlled entity within the meaning of section 512(b)(13)? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2... Click to see attachment
35b
Yes
 
36
Section 501(c)(3) organizations. Did the organization make any transfers to an exempt non-charitable related organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part V, line 2...........
36
 
 
37
Did the organization conduct more than 5% of its activities through an entity that is not a related organization and that is treated as a partnership for federal income tax purposes? If “Yes,” complete Schedule R, Part VI
37
 
No
38
Did the organization complete Schedule O and provide explanations in Schedule O for Part VI, lines 11 and 19? Note. All Form 990 filers are required to complete Schedule O. ............
38
Yes
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 5
Part V
Statements Regarding Other IRS Filings and Tax Compliance
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part V .........
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number reported in Box 3 of Form 1096. Enter -0- if not applicable. .......
1a
8
b
Enter the number of Forms W-2G included in line 1a. Enter -0- if not applicable.
1b
0
c
Did the organization comply with backup withholding rules for reportable payments to vendors and reportable gaming (gambling) winnings to prize winners? ..................
1c
 
 
2a
Enter the number of employees reported on Form W-3, Transmittal of Wage and Tax Statements filed for the calendar year ending with or within the year covered by this return .....................
2a
130
b
If at least one is reported on line 2a, did the organization file all required federal employment tax returns?

Note. If the sum of lines 1a and 2a is greater than 250, you may be required to e-file. (see instructions)
2b
Yes
 
3a
Did the organization have unrelated business gross income of $1,000 or more during the year?.............................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” has it filed a Form 990-T for this year? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O.....
3b
 
 
4a
At any time during the calendar year, did the organization have an interest in, or a signature or other authority over, a financial account in a foreign country (such as a bank account or securities account)?.......................
4a
 
No
b
If "Yes," enter the name of the foreign country: MediumBullet
See instructions for filing requirements for Form TD F 90-22.1, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts.
5a
Was the organization a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction at any time during the tax year?..
5a
 
No
b
Did any taxable party notify the organization that it was or is a party to a prohibited tax shelter transaction?
5b
 
No
c
If “Yes” to line 5a or 5b, did the organization file Form 8886-T? ........
5c
 
 
6a
Does the organization have annual gross receipts that are normally greater than $100,000, and did the organization solicit any contributions that were not tax deductible?..........
6a
Yes
 
b
If “Yes,” did the organization include with every solicitation an express statement that such contributions or gifts were not tax deductible?........................
6b
Yes
 
7
Organizations that may receive deductible contributions under section 170(c).
a
Did the organization receive a payment in excess of $75 made partly as a contribution and partly for goods and services provided to the payor?....................
7a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” did the organization notify the donor of the value of the goods or services provided?.....
7b
 
 
c
Did the organization sell, exchange, or otherwise dispose of tangible personal property for which it was required to file Form 8282?...........................
7c
 
 
d
If “Yes,” indicate the number of Forms 8282 filed during the year ....
7d
 
e
Did the organization receive any funds, directly or indirectly, to pay premiums on a personal benefit contract?..........................
7e
 
 
f
Did the organization, during the year, pay premiums, directly or indirectly, on a personal benefit contract?..
7f
 
 
g
If the organization received a contribution of qualified intellectual property, did the organization file Form 8899 as required?...................
7g
 
 
h
If the organization received a contribution of cars, boats, airplanes, or other vehicles, did the organization file a Form 1098-C?...............
7h
 
 
8
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds and section 509(a)(3) supporting organizations. Did the supporting organization, or a donor advised fund maintained by a sponsoring organization, have excess business holdings at any time during the year?................
8
 
 
9
Sponsoring organizations maintaining donor advised funds.
a
Did the organization make any taxable distributions under section 4966?.........
9a
 
 
b
Did the organization make a distribution to a donor, donor advisor, or related person?......
9b
 
 
10
Section 501(c)(7) organizations. Enter:
a
Initiation fees and capital contributions included on Part VIII, line 12 ...
10a
 
b
Gross receipts, included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, for public use of club facilities
10b
 
11
Section 501(c)(12) organizations. Enter:
a
Gross income from members or shareholders .........
11a
 
b
Gross income from other sources (Do not net amounts due or paid to other sources against amounts due or received from them) ........
11b
 
12a
Section 4947(a)(1) non-exempt charitable trusts. Is the organization filing Form 990 in lieu of Form 1041?
12a
 
 
b
If “Yes,” enter the amount of tax-exempt interest received or accrued during the year.
12b
 
13
Section 501(c)(29) qualified nonprofit health insurance issuers.
a
Is the organization licensed to issue qualified health plans in more than one state?
Note. All 501(c)(29) organizations must list in Schedule O each state in which they are licensed to issue qualified health plans, the amount of reserves required by each state, and the amount of reserves the organization allocated to each state.
13a
 
 
b
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves the organization is required to maintain by the states in which the organization is licensed to issue qualified health plans.
13b
 
c
Enter the aggregate amount of reserves on hand.
13c
 
14a
Did the organization receive any payments for indoor tanning services during the tax year?.....
14a
 
 
b
If "Yes," has it filed a Form 720 to report these payments? If “No,” provide an explanation in Schedule O..
14b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 6
Part VI
Governance, Management, and Disclosure For each “Yes” response to lines 2 through 7b below, and for a “No” response to lines 8a, 8b, or 10b below, describe the circumstances, processes, or changes in Schedule O. See instructions.
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VI .........
Section A. Governing Body and Management
Yes
No
1a
Enter the number of voting members of the governing body at the end of the tax year
If the governing body delegated broad authority to an executive committee or similar committee, explain in Schedule O.
1a
14
b
Enter the number of voting members included in line 1a, above, who are independent .................
1b
13
2
Did any officer, director, trustee, or key employee have a family relationship or a business relationship with any other officer, director, trustee, or key employee? .................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization delegate control over management duties customarily performed by or under the direct supervision of officers, directors or trustees, or key employees to a management company or other person? .
3
 
No
4
Did the organization make any significant changes to its governing documents since the prior Form 990 was filed?
4
 
No
5
Did the organization become aware during the year of a significant diversion of the organization’s assets? .
5
 
No
6
Did the organization have members or stockholders? ................
6
Yes
 
7a
Did the organization have members, stockholders, or other persons who had the power to elect or appoint one or more members of the governing body? .................
7a
Yes
 
b
Are any governance decisions of the organization reserved to (or subject to approval by) members, stockholders, or persons other than the governing body? ............
7b
Yes
 
8
Did the organization contemporaneously document the meetings held or written actions undertaken during the year by the following:
a
The governing body? .........................
8a
Yes
 
b
Each committee with authority to act on behalf of the governing body? ..........
8b
Yes
 
9
Is there any officer, director, trustee, or key employee listed in Part VII, Section A, who cannot be reached at the organization’s mailing address? If “Yes,” provide the names and addresses in Schedule O .....
9
 
No
Section B. Policies (This Section B requests information about policies not required by the Internal
Revenue Code.)
Yes
No
10a
Did the organization have local chapters, branches, or affiliates? ............
10a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization have written policies and procedures governing the activities of such chapters, affiliates, and branches to ensure their operations are consistent with the organization's exempt purposes? ....
10b
 
 
11a
Has the organization provided a complete copy of this Form 990 to all members of its governing body before filing the form?
11a
Yes
 
b
Describe in Schedule O the process, if any, used by the organization to review the Form 990. .....
12a
Did the organization have a written conflict of interest policy? If “No,” go to line 13.......
12a
Yes
 
b
Were officers, directors or trustees, and key employees required to disclose annually interests that could give rise to conflicts? ........................
12b
Yes
 
c
Did the organization regularly and consistently monitor and enforce compliance with the policy? If “Yes,” describe in Schedule O how this was done ....................
12c
Yes
 
13
Did the organization have a written whistleblower policy? ...............
13
 
No
14
Did the organization have a written document retention and destruction policy? .........
14
Yes
 
15
Did the process for determining compensation of the following persons include a review and approval by independent persons, comparability data, and contemporaneous substantiation of the deliberation and decision?
a
The organization’s CEO, Executive Director, or top management official ...........
15a
Yes
 
b
Other officers or key employees of the organization ................
15b
Yes
 
If "Yes," to line 15a or 15b, describe the process in Schedule O (see instructions).
16a
Did the organization invest in, contribute assets to, or participate in a joint venture or similar arrangement with a taxable entity during the year? ......................
16a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization follow a written policy or procedure requiring the organization to evaluate its participation in joint venture arrangements under applicable federal tax law, and take steps to safeguard the organization’s exempt status with respect to such arrangements? ............
16b
 
 
Section C. Disclosure
17
List the States with which a copy of this Form 990 is required to be filedMediumBullet
18
Section 6104 requires an organization to make its Form 1023 (or 1024 if applicable), 990, and 990-T (501(c)(3)s only) available for public inspection. Indicate how you made these available. Check all that apply.
19
Describe in Schedule O whether (and if so, how), the organization made its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public during the tax year.
20
State the name, physical address, and telephone number of the person who possesses the books and records of the organization: MediumBullet
MATHEW RUBIN
141 MAIN ST 6
MONTPELIER,VT05602
(802) 223-5221
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 7
Part VII
Compensation of Officers, Directors,Trustees, Key Employees, Highest Compensated Employees, and Independent Contractors
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part VII .........
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees
1a Complete this table for all persons required to be listed. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current officers, directors, trustees (whether individuals or organizations), regardless of amount
of compensation, and current key employees. Enter -0- in columns (D), (E), and (F) if no compensation was paid.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s current key employees, if any. See instructions for definition of "key employee."
RoundBullet List the organization’s five current highest compensated employees (other than an officer, director, trustee or key employee)
who received reportable compensation (Box 5 of Form W-2 and/or Box 7 of Form 1099-MISC) of more than $100,000 from the
organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former officers, key employees, or highest compensated employees who received more than $100,000
of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

RoundBullet List all of the organization’s former directors or trustees that received, in the capacity as a former director or trustee of the
organization, more than $10,000 of reportable compensation from the organization and any related organizations.

List persons in the following order: individual trustees or directors; institutional trustees; officers; key employees; highest
compensated employees; and former such persons.
Check this box if neither the organization nor any related organizations compensated any current or former officer, director, or trustee.
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;
(1) DUANE PETERSON
President/Co-Dir. VPIRG Energy
 42.00 X   X       78,000 0 2,340
(2) JULIE ELMORE
Vice-President
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(3) MATHEW RUBIN
Treasurer
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(4) CREA LINTILHAC
Secretary
 2.00 X   X       0 0 0
(5) DAN BRUSH
Director/Consultant
 4.00 X           7,500 0 0
(6) ED FLANAGAN
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(7) BARBARINA HEYERDAHL
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(8) DREW HUDSON
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(9) DR JOEL MILLER
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(10) BIFF MITHOEFER
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(11) FLOYD NEASE
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(12) DR MICHAEL SCOLLINS
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(13) STEFANIE SIDORTSOVA
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(14) MARK SINCLAIR
Director
 1.00 X           0 0 0
(15) PAUL BURNS
Executive Director
 25     X       48,001 30,369 13,008




Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 8
Part VII
Section A. Officers, Directors, Trustees, Key Employees, and Highest Compensated Employees (continued)
(A)
Name and Title 		(B)
Average hours per week (describe hours for related organizations in Schedule O) 		(C)
Position (do not check more than one box, unless person is both an officer and a director/trustee) 		(D)
Reportable compensation from the organization (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(E)
Reportable compensation from related organizations (W- 2/1099-MISC) 		(F)
Estimated amount of other compensation from the organization and related organizations
Individual Trustee or Director; Institutional Trustee; Officer; Key Employee; Highest compensated employee; Former;


























1b Sub-Total................MediumBullet
c Total from continuation sheets to Part VII, Section A....MediumBullet
d Total (add lines 1b and 1c)............MediumBullet 133,501 30,369 15,348
2
Total number of individuals (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of reportable compensation from the organizationMediumBullet0
Yes
No
3
Did the organization list any former officer, director or trustee, key employee, or highest compensated employee on line 1a? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual .............
3
 
No
4
For any individual listed on line 1a, is the sum of reportable compensation and other compensation from the organization and related organizations greater than $150,000? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such individual...........................
4
 
No
5
Did any person listed on line 1a receive or accrue compensation from any unrelated organization or individual for services rendered to the organization? If “Yes,” complete Schedule J for such person .....
5
 
No
Section B. Independent Contractors
1
Complete this table for your five highest compensated independent contractors that received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization. Report compensation for the calendar year ending with or within the organization’s tax year.
(A)
Name and business address 		(B)
Description of services 		(C)
Compensation
2
Total number of independent contractors (including but not limited to those listed above) who received more than $100,000 of compensation from the organization MediumBullet0
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 9
Part VIII
Statement of Revenue
(A)
Total revenue 		(B)
Related or
exempt
function
revenue 		(C)
Unrelated
business
revenue 		(D)
Revenue
excluded from
tax under sections
512, 513, or 514
Contributions, Gifts, Grants and Other Similar Amounts 1a Federated campaigns..1a  
b Membership dues....1b 287,712
c Fundraising events....1c 1,268
d Related organizations...1d  
e Government grants (contributions)1e  
f All other contributions, gifts, grants, and
similar amounts not included above1f 		441,102
g Noncash contributions included in lines 1a-1f:$  
h Total. Add lines 1a-1f.......MediumBullet 730,082
Program Service Revenue Business Code
2a Solar Energy Consulting Revenue 900,099 278,142      
b
c
d
e
f All other program service revenue .        
g Total. Add lines 2a–2f........MediumBullet 278,142
Other Revenue 3 Investment income (including dividends, interest
and other similar amounts).....MediumBullet 1,354     1,354
4 Income from investment of tax-exempt bond proceeds..MediumBullet        
5 Royalties............MediumBullet        
(i) Real (ii) Personal
6a Gross rents 13,489  
b Less: rental expenses 7,013  
c Rental income or (loss) 6,476  
d Net rental income or (loss).......MediumBullet 6,476     6,476
(i) Securities (ii) Other
7a Gross amount from sales of assets other than inventory    
b Less: cost or other basis and sales expenses    
c Gain or (loss)    
d Net gain or (loss)..........MediumBullet        
8a Gross income from fundraising events (not including
$ 1,268
of contributions reported on line 1c). See Part IV, line 18 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from fundraising events..MediumBullet      
9a Gross income from gaming activities.
See Part IV, line 19 ...
a  
b Less: direct expenses ...b  
c Net income or (loss) from gaming activities...MediumBullet        
10a Gross sales of inventory, less
returns and allowances .
a  
b Less: cost of goods sold ..b  
c Net income or (loss) from sales of inventory..MediumBullet        
Miscellaneous Revenue Business Code
11a Other Income 900,099 2,907     2,907
b            
c            
d All other revenue ....        
e Total. Add lines 11a–11d ......MediumBullet 2,907
12 Total revenue. See Instructions....MediumBullet 1,018,961 278,142   10,737
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 10
Part IX
Statement of Functional Expenses
Section 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) organizations must complete all columns. All other organizations must complete column (A) but are not required to complete columns (B), (C), and (D).
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part IX. .........
Do not include amounts reported on lines 6b,
7b, 8b, 9b, and 10b of Part VIII. 		(A)
Total expenses 		(B)
Program service expenses 		(C)
Management and general expenses 		(D)
Fundraising expenses
1 Grants and other assistance to governments and organizations in the United States. See Part IV, line 21 0 0
2 Grants and other assistance to individuals in the United States. See Part IV, line 22 0 0
3 Grants and other assistance to governments, organizations, and individuals outside the United States. See Part IV, lines 15 and 16 0 0
4 Benefits paid to or for members 0 0
5 Compensation of current officers, directors, trustees, and key employees .... 143,712 132,483 5,810 5,419
6 Compensation not included above, to disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B) .... 0 0 0 0
7 Other salaries and wages 328,075 218,539 37,195 72,341
8 Pension plan accruals and contributions (include section 401(k) and 403(b) employer contributions) .... 4,831 3,609 820 402
9 Other employee benefits ....... 51,965 37,611 9,636 4,718
10 Payroll taxes ........... 40,363 29,316 3,562 7,485
11 Fees for services (non-employees):        
a Management ...... 0 0 0 0
b Legal ......... 2,365 2,365 0 0
c Accounting ........... 12,850 9,765 2,651 434
d Lobbying ........... 11,533 11,533 0 0
e Professional fundraising. See Part IV, line 17.. 17,169 17,169
f Investment management fees ...... 0 0 0 0
g Other .......... 156,891 95,536 3,952 57,403
12 Advertising and promotion .... 0 0 0 0
13 Office expenses ....... 23,225 17,759 3,713 1,753
14 Information technology ...... 0 0 0 0
15 Royalties .. 0 0 0 0
16 Occupancy ........... 19,431 15,676 2,393 1,362
17 Travel ............ 6,327 5,121 504 702
18 Payments of travel or entertainment expenses for any federal, state, or local public officials ...... 0 0 0 0
19 Conferences, conventions, and meetings .... 1,362 546 760 56
20 Interest ........... 0 0 0 0
21 Payments to affiliates ....... 0 0 0 0
22 Depreciation, depletion, and amortization ..... 4,301 0 4,301 0
23 Insurance .............. 3,375 2,742 401 232
24 Other expenses. Itemize expenses not covered above (List miscellaneous expenses in line 24f. If line 24f amount exceeds 10% of line 25, column (A) amount, list line 24f expenses on Schedule O.)
a Bank & credit card fees 7,587 2,352 4,939 296
b Dues/publications/newsletter 16,985 14,733 1,341 911
c Organizational advertising 4,980 1,544 3,242 194
d Program supplies 6,181 6,181 0 0
e
f All other expenses 3,750 1,720 1,990 40
25 Total functional expenses. Add lines 1 through 24f 867,258 609,131 87,210 170,917
26 Joint costs. Complete this line only if the organization reported in column (B) joint costs from a combined educational campaign and fundraising solicitation. Check here MediumBullet if following SOP 98-2 (ASC 958-720).        
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 11
Part X Balance Sheet
(A)
Beginning of year 		(B)
End of year
Assets 1 Cash—non-interest-bearing .......... 44,563 1 130,250
2 Savings and temporary cash investments ....... 153,649 2 165,587
3 Pledges and grants receivable, net .........   3  
4 Accounts receivable, net .........   4 106,183
5 Receivables from current and former officers, directors, trustees, key employees, and highest compensated employees. Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   5  
6 Receivables from other disqualified persons (as defined under section 4958(f)(1)) and persons described in section 4958(c)(3)(B). Complete Part II of
Schedule L ..........   6  
7 Notes and loans receivable, net .............   7  
8 Inventories for sale or use ..............   8  
9 Prepaid expenses and deferred charges ............ 17,958 9 17,371
10a Land, buildings, and equipment: cost or other basis. Complete Part VI of Schedule D 10a 43,811
b Less: accumulated depreciation. ..... 10b 27,060 11,586 10c 16,751
11 Investments—publicly traded securities ..........   11  
12 Investments—other securities. See Part IV, line 11 ......   12  
13 Investments—program-related. See Part IV, line 11 ..   13  
14 Intangible assets .........   14  
15 Other assets. See Part IV, line 11 ........... 55,387 15 87,995
16 Total assets. Add lines 1 through 15 (must equal line 34)... 283,143 16 524,137
Liabilities 17 Accounts payable and accrued expenses . 18,987 17 108,278
18 Grants payable ..........   18  
19 Deferred revenue ..........   19  
20 Tax-exempt bond liabilities ..........   20  
21 Escrow or custodial account liability. Complete Part IV of Schedule D..   21  
22 Payables to current and former officers, directors, trustees, key
employees, highest compensated employees, and disqualified
persons. Complete Part II of Schedule L..........   22  
23 Secured mortgages and notes payable to unrelated third parties ..   23  
24 Unsecured notes and loans payable to unrelated third parties ....   24  
25 Other liabilities (including federal income tax, payables to related third parties, and other liabilities not included on lines 17-24). Complete Part X of Schedule D.....   25  
26 Total liabilities. Add lines 17 through 25..... 18,987 26 108,278
Net Assets or Fund Balance Organizations that follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 27 through 29, and lines 33 and 34.
27 Unrestricted net assets ..... 264,156 27 415,859
28 Temporarily restricted net assets .....   28  
29 Permanently restricted net assets .....   29  
Organizations that do not follow SFAS 117, check here MediumBullet and complete lines 30 through 34.
30 Capital stock or trust principal, or current funds .....   30  
31 Paid-in or capital surplus, or land, building or equipment fund .....   31  
32 Retained earnings, endowment, accumulated income, or other funds   32  
33 Total net assets or fund balances ..... 264,156 33 415,859
34 Total liabilities and net assets/fund balances ..... 283,143 34 524,137
Form 990 (2011)
Form 990 (2011)
Page 12
Part XI
Reconcilliation of Net Assets
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XI .........
1
Total revenue (must equal Part VIII, column (A), line 12) ...
1
1,018,961
2
Total expenses (must equal Part IX, column (A), line 25) ....
2
867,258
3
Revenue less expenses. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ...
3
151,703
4
Net assets or fund balances at beginning of year (must equal Part X, line 33, column (A)) ..
4
264,156
5
Other changes in net assets or fund balances (explain in Schedule O) ...
5
 
6
Net assets or fund balances at end of year. Combine lines 3, 4, and 5 (must equal Part X, line 33, column (B)) ....
6
415,859
Part XII
Financial Statements and Reporting
Check if Schedule O contains a response to any question in this Part XII .........
Yes
No
1
Accounting method used to prepare the Form 990:  
If the organization changed its method of accounting from a prior year or checked "Other," explain in
Schedule O.
2a
Were the organization’s financial statements compiled or reviewed by an independent accountant?....
2a
Yes
 
b
Were the organization’s financial statements audited by an independent accountant?........
2b
 
No
c
If “Yes,” to 2a or 2b, does the organization have a committee that assumes responsibility for oversight of the audit, review, or compilation of its financial statements and selection of an independent accountant? If the organization changed either its oversight process or selection process during the tax year, explain in Schedule O. ...........................
2c
Yes
 
d
If “Yes” to line 2a or 2b, check a box below to indicate whether the financial statements for the year were issued on a separate basis, consolidated basis, or both:
3a
As a result of a federal award, was the organization required to undergo an audit or audits as set forth in the Single Audit Act and OMB Circular A-133? ................
3a
 
No
b
If “Yes,” did the organization undergo the required audit or audits? If the organization did not undergo the required audit or audits, explain why in Schedule O and describe any steps taken to undergo such audits. ..
3b
 
 
Form 990 (2011)
Additional Data


Software ID: 11000175
Software Version:  
Form 990, Special Condition Description:
Special Condition Description
Schedule B
(Form 990, 990-EZ,
or 990-PF)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Schedule of Contributors
Arrow Bullet Attach to Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Name of organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Organization type (check one):
Filers of:
Section:
Form 990 or 990-EZ





Form 990-PF




Check if your organization is covered by the General Rule or a Special Rule.  
Note. Only a section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organization can check boxes for both the General Rule and a Special Rule. See instructions.
General Rule
Special Rules
......................... Arrow Bullet   $    
Caution. An Organization that is not covered by the General Rule and/or the Special Rules does not file Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF), but it must answer “No” on Part IV, line 2, of its Form 990; or check the box on line H of its
Form 990-EZ or on Part I, line 2, of its Form 990-PF, to certify that it does not meet the filing requirements of Schedule B (Form 990,
990-EZ, or 990-PF).
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions
for Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF.
Cat. No. 30613XSchedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 2
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
  		Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I
Contributors (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part I if additional space is needed.
     
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED
 

     
RESTRICTED
RESTRICTED  
RESTRICTED, RESTRICTED   RESTRICTED

$RESTRICTED




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
(a)
No.		 (b)
Name, address, and ZIP + 4		 (c)
Total contributions		 (d)
Type of contribution
 
 
 

     
 
   

$  




(Complete Part II if there is a noncash contribution.)
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 3
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
  		Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part II
Noncash Property (see Instructions). Use duplicate copies of Part II if additional space is needed.
     
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Description of noncash property given		 (c)
FMV (or estimate)
(see instructions). 		(d)
Date received
 
$    
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Page 4
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)
Name of organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
  		Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part III
Exclusively religious, charitable, etc., individual contributions to section 501(c)(7), (8), or (10) organizations
that total more than $1,000 for the year. Complete columns (a) through (e) and the following line entry.
For organizations completing Part III, enter the total of exclusively religious, charitable, etc.,
contributions of $1,000 or less for the year. (Enter this information once. See instructions.) Arrow Bullet $  
Use duplicate copies of Part III if additional space is needed
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
(a) No.
from
Part I		 (b)
Purpose of gift		 (c)
Use of gift		 (d)
Description of how gift is held
 
(e)
Transfer of gift
Transferee's name, address, and ZIP 4 Relationship of transferor to transferee
 
 
       
 
Schedule B (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-PF) (2011)

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE C
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities

For Organizations Exempt From Income Tax Under section 501(c) and section 527
SchCMd Bullet Complete if the organization is described below.
SchCMd Bullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. SchCMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 3, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 46 (Political Campaign Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and B. Do not complete Part I-C.
Round Bullet Section 501(c) (other than section 501(c)(3)) organizations: Complete Parts I-A and C below. Do not complete Part I-B.
Round Bullet Section 527 organizations: Complete Part I-A only.
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 4, or Form 990-EZ, Part VI, line 47 (Lobbying Activities), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)) Complete Part II-A. Do not complete Part II-B.
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(3) organizations that have NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)): Complete Part II-B. Do not complete Part II-A.
If the organization answered “Yes” to Form 990, Part IV, Line 5 (Proxy Tax) or Form 990-EZ, line 35c (Proxy Tax), then
Round Bullet Section 501(c)(4), (5), or (6) organizations: Complete Part III.
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) or is a section 527 organization.

1
Provide a description of the organization’s direct and indirect political campaign activities in Part IV.
2
Political expenditures ....................................SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
Volunteer hours ........................................
 

Part I-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by the organization under section 4955 .........SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of any excise tax incurred by organization managers under section 4955 ......SchCMd Bullet
$  
3
If the organization incurred a section 4955 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? ..............
4a
Was a correction made? .........................................
b
If "Yes," describe in Part IV.
Part I-C
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c) except section 501(c)(3).
1
Enter the amount directly expended by the filing organization for section 527 exempt function activities SchCMd Bullet
$  
2
Enter the amount of the filing organization's funds contributed to other organizations for section 527 exempt function activities ...................................SchCMd Bullet

$  
3
Total exempt function expenditures. Add lines 1 and 2. Enter here and on Form 1120-POL, line 17b..SchCMd Bullet

$  
4
Did the filing organization file Form 1120-POL for this year? ..........................
5
Enter the names, addresses and employer identification number (EIN) of all section 527 political organizations to which the filing
organization made payments. For each organization listed, enter the amount paid from the filing organization’s funds. Also enter the amount of political contributions received that were promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization, such as a separate segregated fund or a political action committee (PAC). If additional space is needed, provide information in Part IV.
(a) Name (b) Address (c) EIN (d) Amount paid from filing organization's funds. If none, enter -0-. (e) Amount of political contributions received and promptly and directly delivered to a separate political organization. If none, enter -0-.










For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50084S
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
A Check expenses, and share of excess lobbying expenditures).
B Check
Limits on Lobbying Expenditures
(The term "expenditures" means amounts paid or incurred.) 		(a) Filing
organization's
totals 		(b) Affiliated group
totals
1a Total lobbying expenditures to influence public opinion (grass roots lobbying) ......    
b Total lobbying expenditures to influence a legislative body (direct lobbying) .......    
c Total lobbying expenditures (add lines 1a and 1b) ...................    
d Other exempt purpose expenditures ........................    
e Total exempt purpose expenditures (add lines 1c and 1d) ...............    
f Lobbying nontaxable amount. Enter the amount from the following table in both
columns.		    
  If the amount on line 1e, column (a) or (b) is:The lobbying nontaxable amount is:    
  Not over $500,00020% of the amount on line 1e.    
  Over $500,000 but not over $1,000,000$100,000 plus 15% of the excess over $500,000.    
  Over $1,000,000 but not over $1,500,000$175,000 plus 10% of the excess over $1,000,000.    
  Over $1,500,000 but not over $17,000,000$225,000 plus 5% of the excess over $1,500,000.    
  Over $17,000,000$1,000,000.    
       
g Grassroots nontaxable amount (enter 25% of line 1f) .................    
h Subtract line 1g from line 1a. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................    
i Subtract line 1f from line 1c. If zero or less, enter -0-. ................    
j If there is an amount other than zero on either line 1h or line 1i, did the organization file Form 4720 reporting
section 4911 tax for this year? ......................................

4-Year Averaging Period Under Section 501(h)
(Some organizations that made a section 501(h) election do not have to complete all of the five
columns below. See the instructions for lines 2a through 2f on page 4.)
Lobbying Expenditures During 4-Year Averaging Period
  Calendar year (or fiscal year
beginning in) 		(a) 2008 (b) 2009 (c) 2010 (d) 2011 (e) Total
             
2a Lobbying non-taxable amount          
             
b Lobbying ceiling amount
(150% of line 2a, column(e)) 		         
             
c Total lobbying expenditures          
             
d Grassroots nontaxable amount          
             
e Grassroots ceiling amount
(150% of line 2d, column (e))		          
             
f Grassroots lobbying expenditures          
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011


Schedule C (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
Part II-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(3) and has NOT filed Form 5768 (election under section 501(h)).
For each “Yes” response to lines 1a through 1i below, provide in Part IV a detailed description of the lobbying activity.
(a)
Yes
No
(b)
Amount
1
During the year, did the filing organization attempt to influence foreign, national, state or local legislation, including any attempt to influence public opinion on a legislative matter or referendum, through the use of:
a
Volunteers? .........................................
 
 
b
Paid staff or management (include compensation in expenses reported on lines 1c through 1i)? ....
 
 
c
Media advertisements? ....................................
 
 
 
d
Mailings to members, legislators, or the public? .........................
 
 
 
e
Publications, or published or broadcast statements? .......................
 
 
 
f
Grants to other organizations for lobbying purposes? .......................
 
 
 
g
Direct contact with legislators, their staffs, government officials, or a legislative body? ........
 
 
 
h
Rallies, demonstrations, seminars, conventions, speeches, lectures, or any similar means? ......
 
 
 
i
Other activities? ..........................
 
 
 
j
Total. Add lines 1c through 1i ...............................
 
2a
Did the activities in line 1 cause the organization to be not described in section 501(c)(3)? .....
 
 
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred under section 4912 .................
 
c
If "Yes," enter the amount of any tax incurred by organization managers under section 4912 .....
 
d
If the filing organization incurred a section 4912 tax, did it file Form 4720 for this year? .......
 
 
Part III-A
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6).
Yes
No
1
Were substantially all (90% or more) dues received nondeductible by members? ................
1
Yes
 
2
Did the organization make only in-house lobbying expenditures of $2,000 or less? ................
2
 
No
3
Did the organization agree to carry over lobbying and political expenditures from the prior year? ..........
3
 
No
Part III-B
Complete if the organization is exempt under section 501(c)(4), section 501(c)(5), or section 501(c)(6) and if either (a) BOTH Part III-A, lines 1 and 2 are answered “No” OR (b) Part III-A, line 3 is answered “Yes”.
1
Dues, assessments and similar amounts from members .....................
1
 
2
Section 162(e) nondeductible lobbying and political expenditures (do not include amounts of political
expenses for which the section 527(f) tax was paid).
a
Current year .........................................
2a
 
b
Carryover from last year ....................................
2b
 
c
Total ...........................................
2c
 
3
Aggregate amount reported in section 6033(e)(1)(A) notices of nondeductible section 162(e) dues .
3
 
4
If notices were sent and the amount on line 2c exceeds the amount on line 3, what portion of the excess does the organization agree to carryover to the reasonable estimate of nondeductible lobbying and political expenditure next year? ................................
4
 
5
Taxable amount of lobbying and political expenditures (see instructions) ..............
5
 
Part IV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part l-A, line 1; Part l-B, line 4; Part l-C, Part II-A; line 5; and Part ll-B, line 1.
Also, complete this part for any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Schedule C (Form 990 or 990EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  

SCHEDULE D
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Financial Statements
SchDMd Bullet Complete if the organization answered "Yes," to Form 990,
Part IV, line 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11a, 11b, 11c, 11d, 11e, 11f, 12a, or 12b
SchDMd Bullet Attach to Form 990. SchDMd Bullet See separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I
Organizations Maintaining Donor Advised Funds or Other Similar Funds or Accounts. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 6.
(a) Donor advised funds (b) Funds and other accounts
1 Total number at end of year .......    
2 Aggregate contributions to (during year) ...    
3 Aggregate grants from (during year) ...    
4 Aggregate value at end of year .......    
5
Did the organization inform all donors and donor advisors in writing that the assets held in donor advised
funds are the organization's property, subject to the organization's exclusive legal control? ............
6
Did the organization inform all grantees, donors, and donor advisors in writing that grant funds can be
used only for charitable purposes and not for the benefit of the donor or donor advisor, or for any other purpose conferring impermissible private benefit? ...................................
Part II
Conservation Easements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 7.
1
Purpose(s) of conservation easements held by the organization (check all that apply).
2
Complete lines 2a through 2d if the organization held a qualified conservation contribution in the form of a conservation easement on the last day of the tax year.
Held at the End of the Year
a Total number of conservation easements ....................... 2a  
b Total acreage restricted by conservation easements .................. 2b  
c Number of conservation easements on a certified historic structure included in (a) ..... 2c  
d Number of conservation easements included in (c) acquired after 8/17/06, and not on a historic structure listed in the National Register .................... 2d  
3
Number of conservation easements modified, transferred, released, extinguished, or terminated by the organization during
the tax year SchDMd Bullet  
4
Number of states where property subject to conservation easement is located SchDMd Bullet  
5
Does the organization have a written policy regarding the periodic monitoring, inspection, handling of violations, and
enforcement of the conservation easements it holds? .............................
6
Staff and volunteer hours devoted to monitoring, inspecting and enforcing conservation easements during the year SchDMd Bullet  
7
Amount of expenses incurred in monitoring, inspecting, and enforcing conservation easements during the year
SchDMd Bullet $  
8
Does each conservation easement reported on line 2(d) above satisfy the requirements of section
170(h)(4)(B)(i) and 170(h)(4)(B)(ii)? ....................................
9
In Part XIV, describe how the organization reports conservation easements in its revenue and expense statement, and
balance sheet, and include, if applicable, the text of the footnote to the organization’s financial statements that describes
the organization’s accounting for conservation easements.
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 8.
1a
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), not to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of
art, historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education or research in furtherance of public service,
provide, in Part XIV, the text of the footnote to its financial statements that describes these items.
b
If the organization elected, as permitted under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), to report in its revenue statement and balance sheet works of art,
historical treasures, or other similar assets held for public exhibition, education, or research in furtherance of public service,
provide the following amounts relating to these items:
(i)
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ........................SchDMd Bullet $  
(ii)
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ..............................SchDMd Bullet $  
2
If the organization received or held works of art, historical treasures, or other similar assets for financial gain, provide the
following amounts required to be reported under SFAS 116 (ASC 958), relating to these items:
a
Revenues included in Form 990, Part VIII, line 1 ..........................SchDMd Bullet $  
b
Assets included in Form 990, Part X ...............................SchDMd Bullet $  
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Intructions for Form 990
Cat. No. 52283D
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 2
Part III
Organizations Maintaining Collections of Art, Historical Treasures, or Other Similar Assets (continued)
3
Using the organization’s accession and other records, check any of the following that are a significant use of its collection
items (check all that apply):
a
d
b
e
 
c
4
Provide a description of the organization’s collections and explain how they further the organization’s exempt purpose in
Part XIV.
5
During the year, did the organization solicit or receive donations of art, historical treasures or other similar
assets to be sold to raise funds rather than to be maintained as part of the organization’s collection?........
Part IV
Escrow and Custodial Arrangements. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990,
Part IV, line 9, or reported an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21.
1a
Is the organization an agent, trustee, custodian or other intermediary for contributions or other assets not
included on Form 990, Part X? ....................................
b
If "Yes," explain the arrangement in Part XIV and complete the following table:
Amount
c Beginning balance ................................. 1c  
d Additions during the year .............................. 1d  
e Distributions during the year ............................. 1e  
f Ending balance ................................... 1f  
2a
Did the organization include an amount on Form 990, Part X, line 21? .....................
b
If “Yes,” explain the arrangement in Part XIV.
Part V
Endowment Funds. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 10.
(a)Current Year (b)Prior Year (c)Two Years Back (d)Three Years Back (e)Four Years Back
1a Beginning of year balance ....        
b Contributions ........        
c Net investment earnings, gains, and losses ...        
d Grants or scholarships .....        
e Other expenditures for facilities
and programs ........ 		       
f Administrative expenses ....        
g End of year balance ......        
2
Provide the estimated percentage of the year end balance (line 1g) held as:
a
Board designated or quasi-endowment SchDMd Bullet  
b
Permanent endowment SchDMd Bullet  
c
Temporarily restricted endowment SchDMd Bullet  
The percentages in lines 2a, 2b, and 2c should equal 100%.
3a
Are there endowment funds not in the possession of the organization that are held and administered for the
organization by:

Yes
No
(i) unrelated organizations ........................
3a(i)
 
 
(ii) related organizations ........................
3a(ii)
 
 
b
If "Yes" to 3a(ii), are the related organizations listed as required on Schedule R? .........
3b
 
 
4
Describe in Part XIV the intended uses of the organization's endowment funds.
Part VI
Land, Buildings, and Equipment. See Form 990, Part X, line 10.
Description of property (a) Cost or other basis (investment) (b)Cost or other basis (other) (c) Accumulated depreciation (d) Book value
1a Land .................      
b Buildings ................        
c Leasehold improvements ............   2,741 765 1,976
d Equipment ................   41,070 26,295 14,775
e Other .................        
Total. Add lines 1a through 1e. (Column (d) must equal Form 990, Part X, column (B), line 10(c).).......SchDMdBullet 16,751
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 3
Part VII
Investments—Other Securities. See Form 990, Part X, line 12.
(a) Description of security or category
(including name of security)		 (b)Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value
(1)Financial derivatives    
(2)Closely-held equity interests    
Other








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col. (B) line 12.)Small Bullet  
Part VIII
Investments—Program Related. See Form 990, Part X, line 13.
(a) Description of investment type (b) Book value (c) Method of valuation:
Cost or end-of-year market value








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 13.)Small Bullet  
Part IX
Other Assets. See Form 990, Part X, line 15.
(a) Description (b) Book value
(1) Due from affiliate (VPIREF) 86,495
(2) Security deposit 1,500







Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 15.)...........Small Bullet 87,995
Part X
Other Liabilities. See Form 990, Part X, line 25.
1.(a) Description of Liability (b) Book value
Federal Income Taxes  








Total. (Column (b) must equal Form 990, Part X, col.(B) line 25.)Small Bullet  
2. Fin 48 (ASC 740) Footnote. In Part XIV, provide the text of the footnote to the organization's financial statements that reports the organization's liability for uncertain tax positions under FIN 48 (ASC740).
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Schedule D (Form 990) 2011
Page 4
Part XI Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets from Form 990 to Financial Statements
1 Total revenue (Form 990, Part VIII, column (A), line 12) .................... 1  
2 Total expenses (Form 990, Part IX, column (A), line 25) ..................... 2  
3 Excess or (deficit) for the year. Subtract line 2 from line 1 ............. 3  
4 Net unrealized gains (losses) on investments .......................... 4  
5 Donated services and use of facilities ............................. 5  
6 Investment expenses ................................... 6  
7 Prior period adjustments .................................. 7  
8 Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ................................. 8  
9 Total adjustments (net). Add lines 4 through 8 ......................... 9  
10 Excess or (deficit) for the year per financial statements. Combine lines 3 and 9 ......... 10  
Part XII Reconciliation of Revenue per Audited Financial Statements With Revenue per Return
1 Total revenue, gains, and other support per audited financial statements ....... 1  
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12:
a Net unrealized gains on investments .......... 2a  
b Donated services and use of facilities ......... 2b  
c Recoveries of prior year grants ........... 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d ..................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3  
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 12, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b . 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ........... 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total Revenue. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 12.) ...... 5  
Part XIII Reconciliation of Expenses per Audited Financial Statements With Expenses per Return
1 Total expenses and losses per audited financial statements ............. 1  
2 Amounts included on line 1 but not on Form 990, Part IX, line 25:
a Donated services and use of facilities .......... 2a  
b Prior year adjustments .............. 2b  
c Other losses ................ 2c  
d Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 2d  
e Add lines 2a through 2d...................... 2e  
3 Subtract line 2e from line 1..................... 3  
4 Amounts included on Form 990, Part IX, line 25, but not on line 1:
a Investment expenses not included on Form 990, Part VIII, line 7b .. 4a  
b Other (Describe in Part XIV.) ............ 4b  
c Add lines 4a and 4b....................... 4c  
5 Total expenses. Add lines 3 and 4c. (This must equal Form 990, Part I, line 18.) ...... 5  
Part XIV
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide the descriptions required for Part II, lines 3, 5, and 9; Part III, lines 1a and 4; Part lV, lines 1b and 2b;
Part V, line 4; Part X; Part XI, line 8; Part XII, lines 2d and 4b; and Part XIII, lines 2d and 4b. Also complete this part to provide any additional information.
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Schedule D (Form 990) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000175
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE G (Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information Regarding
Fundraising or Gaming Activities
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, lines 17, 18, or 19,or if the organization entered more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.right arrowAttach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. right arrowSee separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I
Fundraising Activities. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 17.
1
Indicate whether the organization raised funds through any of the following activities. Check all that apply.
a e
b f
c g
d
2a
Did the organization have a written or oral agreement with any individual (including officers, directors, trustees
or key employees listed in Form 990, Part VII) or entity in connection with professional fundraising services?
b
If “Yes,” list the ten highest paid individuals or entities (fundraisers) pursuant to agreements under which the fundraiser is
to be compensated at least $5,000 by the organization. Form 990-EZ filers are not required to complete this table.
(i) Name and address of individual
or entity (fundraiser) 		(ii) Activity (iii) Did fundraiser have custody or control of contributions? (iv) Gross receipts
from activity 		(v) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
fundraiser listed in
col. (i) 		(vi) Amount paid to
(or retained by)
organization
Yes No
 
ARIA COMMUNICATIONS 		Phone Canvass   No 62,947 17,169 45,778
Total .................right arrow 62,947 17,169 45,778
3
List all states in which the organization is registered or licensed to solicit funds or has been notified it is exempt from registration or licensing.
VT
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50083H
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part II
Fundraising Events. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 18, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a. List events with gross receipts greater than $5,000.
(a) Event #1

 
(event type) 		(b) Event #2

 
(event type) 		(c) Other Events

  
(total number) 		(d) Total Events
(Add col. (a) through col. (c))
VerticalRevenue 1 Gross receipts . . .        
2 Less: Charitable
contributions . . . 		       
3 Gross income (line 1
minus line 2) . . . 		       
VerticalDirectExpenses 4 Cash prizes . . .        
5 Non-cash prizes . .        
6 Rent/facility costs . .        
7 Food and beverages . .        
8 Entertainment . . .        
9 Other direct expenses .        
10 Direct expense summary. Add lines 4 through 9 in column (d) ........... right arrow  
11 Net income summary. Combine lines 3 and 10 in column (d)............ right arrow  
Part III
Gaming. Complete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 19, or reported more than $15,000 on Form 990-EZ, line 6a.
VerticalRevenue (a) Bingo (b) Pull tabs/Instant
bingo/progressive bingo 		(c) Other gaming (d) Total gaming (Add col. (a) through col. (c))
1 Gross revenue . . . .        
VerticalDirectExpenses 2 Cash prizes . . . .        
3 Non-cash prizes . . .        
4 Rent/facility costs . . .        
5 Other direct expenses . .        
6 Volunteer labor . . .
 
 
 
7 Direct expense summary. Add lines 2 through 5 in column (d) ........... right arrow  
8 Net gaming income summary. Combine lines 1 and 7 in column (d) .......... right arrow  
9
Enter the state(s) in which the organization operates gaming activities:
a
Is the organization licensed to operate gaming activities in each of these states? ............
b
If "No," Explain:
 
10a
Were any of the organization's gaming licenses revoked, suspended or terminated during the tax year? .....
b
If "Yes," Explain:
 
11
Does the organization operate gaming activities with nonmembers? .................
12
Is the organization a grantor, beneficiary or trustee of a trust or a member of a partnership or other entity
formed to administer charitable gaming? ..........................
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 3
13
Indicate the percentage of gaming activity operated in:
a
The organization's facility ......................
13a
 
b
An outside facility ........................
13b
 
14
Provide the name and address of the person who prepares the organization's gaming/special events books and records:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
15a
Does the organization have a contract with a third party from whom the organization receives gaming
revenue? ......................................
b
If "Yes," enter the amount of gaming revenue received by the organization right arrow $   and the
amount of gaming revenue retained by the third party right arrow $   .
c
If "Yes," enter name and address:
Name right arrow
Address right arrow
 
 
16
Gaming manager information:
Name right arrow
Gaming manager compensation right arrow $  
Description of services provided right arrow
 
17
Mandatory distributions:
a
Is the organization required under state law to make charitable distributions from the gaming proceeds to
retain the state gaming license? ............................
b
Enter the amount of distributions required under state law distributed to other exempt organizations or spent
in the organization's own exempt activities during the tax year right arrow$  
Part IV
Complete this part to provide additional information for responses to quuestion on Schedule G (see instructions.)
Identifier ReturnReference Explanation
Schedule G (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Additional Data


Software ID:  
Software Version:  
Schedule L
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Transactions with Interested Persons
MediumBullet Complete if the organization answered
"Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, lines 25a, 25b, 26, 27, 28a, 28b, or 28c,
or Form 990-EZ, Part V lines 38a or 40b.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. MediumBulletSee separate instructions.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I
Excess Benefit Transactions (section 501(c)(3) and section 501 (c)(4) organizations only).
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 25a or 25b, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 40b.
1(a) Name of disqualified person (b) Description of transaction (c) Corrected?
Yes No





2
Enter the amount of tax imposed on the organization managers or disqualified persons during the year under section 4958. ......................... Bullet Image$
 
3
Enter the amount of tax, if any, on line 2, above, reimbursed by the organization ....... Bullet Image$
 

Part II
Loans to and/or From Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 26, or Form 990-EZ, Part V, line 38a.
(a) Name of interested person and purpose (b) Loan to or from the organization? (c)Original principal amount (d)Balance due (e) In default? (f) Approved by board or committee? (g)Written agreement?
To From Yes No Yes No Yes No
Total ...............Small Bullet $  
Part III
Grants or Assistance Benefitting Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 27.
(a) Name of interested person (b)Relationship between interested person and the organization (c)Amount of grant or type of assistance
For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the
Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 50056A
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011
Page 2
Part IV
Business Transactions Involving Interested Persons.
Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 28a, 28b, or 28c.
(a) Name of interested person (b) Relationship between interested person and the organization (c) Amount of transaction (d) Description of transaction (e) Sharing of organization's revenues?
Yes No
(1) DUANE PETERSON VPIRG President 25,936 Reimbursement Receivable   No
Part V
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule L (see instructions).
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
1   As of 12/31/11, VPIRG has recognized revenue and a receivable
    from an organization in which the President is an owner and
    representing the value of services provided to the
    organization by the President during 2011.
Schedule L (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000175
Software Version:  




SCHEDULE O
(Form 990 or 990-EZ)

Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ

Complete to provide information for responses to specific questions on
Form 990 or to provide any additional information.
MediumBullet Attach to Form 990 or 990-EZ.
OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public
Inspection
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Pt VI, Line 11a   A draft of Form 990 is reviewed by management with a copy of Form
    990, in .pdf format, made available to the Board prior to filing.
Pt VI, Line 12c   Board members are required to disclose any potential conflicts of interest
    annually with compliance monitored by management.
Pt VI, Line 15   The Executive Committee of the governing Board reviews comparability
    information as part of the annual salary review of all top officials.
Pt VI, Line 19   The Organization does not release its financial statements
    or other governance documents. General financial information is
    provided annually to the members.
Pt VI, Line 6   Supporters of VPIRG who make contributions of at least
    $30 per year - to either VPIRG or its affiliate VPIREF - are
    automatically considered members.
Pt VI, Line 7a   Directors serve two-year terms with the membership generally electing
    half of the Directors each year via mail or electronic ballot.
Pt VI, Line 7b   Members must approve any changes to the Organization's bylaws.
Pt III, Line 4d   Democracy & Fair Elections - VPIRG actively supports
    efforts to make our democracy more open and transparent.
    We also seek to ensure that elections are fair and
    balanced by reducing the undue influence of money in our
    political processes. We continue to draw attention to
    the devastating impact of the disastrous Supreme Court
    verdict in Citizens United. In 2011, VPIRG also helped
    pass S.31, the National Popular Vote Law designed to
    ensure that every vote matters and that each state is
    relevant. Once states representing a majority of votes
    in the Electoral College enact the same bill, the
Form 990, Part III, Line 4d   OTHER PROGRAMS INCLUDE DEMOCRACY & FAIR ELECTIONS 20123. 0. 0.
    electoral votes from participating states will be awarded
    to the presidential candidate who receives the most
    popular votes in all 50 states.
Part III, Line 4d   Consumer Protection - VPIRG serves as a watchdog,
    protecting the public interest when corporations attempt
    to put profits over people, and ensure that the policies
    and laws that we do pass to protect the public interest
    are in fact enforced. In 2011, VPIRG stepped in to call
    attention to a practice known as "cramming", where
    telecom companies tack on unauthorized fees and charges
    to phone bills. As a result, we passed H.287 in the
    House; it remains to be considered by the Senate. VPIRG
    also supported efforts at the federal level by the newly
    created Consumer Financial Protection Bureau.
For Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990 or 990-EZ.
Cat. No. 51056K
Schedule O (Form 990 or 990-EZ) 2011

Additional Data


Software ID: 11000175
Software Version:  
SCHEDULE R
(Form 990)
Department of the Treasury
Internal Revenue Service
Related Organizations and Unrelated Partnerships
MediumBulletComplete if the organization answered "Yes" to Form 990, Part IV, line 33, 34, 35, 36, or 37.
MediumBulletAttach to Form 990. MediumBullet See separate instructions.

OMB No. 1545-0047
2011
Open to Public Inspection
Name of the organization
VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP INC
 
Employer identification number

03-0228267
Part I
Identification of Disregarded Entities (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 33.)
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of disregarded entity


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Total income
(e)
End-of-year assets


 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity

















Part II
Identification of Related Tax-Exempt Organizations (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related tax-exempt organizations during the tax year.)
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of related organization


(b)
Primary activity


 		(c)
Legal domicile (state
or foreign country)

 		(d)
Exempt Code section
(e)
Public charity status
(if section 501(c)(3))

 		(f)
Direct controlling
entity

 		(g)
Section 512(b)(13) controlled organization
Yes No
(1) VT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH & EDUC FUND

141 MAIN ST 6

MONTPELIER,VT05602
51-0163801 		EDUCATION VT 501(c)(3) 509(a)(1) NA
 
Yes
 












For Privacy Act and Paperwork Reduction Act Notice, see the Instructions for Form 990.
Cat. No. 50135Y
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Page 2
Part III
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Partnership (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a partnership during the tax year.)
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of
related organization



 		(b)
Primary activity




 		(c)
Legal
domicile
(state or foreign
country)


 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity



 		(e)
Predominant income(related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of end-of-year
assets



 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations?




 		(i)
Code V—UBI
amount in box 20 of
Schedule K-1
(Form 1065)
 		(j)
General or
managing
partner?



 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No












Part IV
Identification of Related Organizations Taxable as a Corporation or Trust (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34 because it had one or more related organizations treated as a corporation or trust during the tax year.)
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of related organization



 		(b)
Primary activity



 		(c)
Legal domicile
(state or
foreign
country)
 		(d)
Direct controlling
entity


 		(e)
Type of entity
(C corp, S corp,
or trust)

 		(f)
Share of total income



 		(g)
Share of
end-of-year
assets

 		(h)
Percentage
ownership












Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Page 3
Part V
Transactions With Related Organizations (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 34, 35, 35A, or 36.)
Note. Complete line 1 if any entity is listed in Parts II, III or IV.
Yes
No
1 During the tax year, did the orgranization engage in any of the following transactions with one or more related organizations listed in Parts II-IV?
a Receipt of (i) interest (ii) annuities (iii) royalties (iv) rent from a controlled entity . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1a
 
No
b Gift, grant, or capital contribution to related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1b
 
No
c Gift, grant, or capital contribution from related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1c
 
No
d Loans or loan guarantees to or for related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1d
Yes
 
e Loans or loan guarantees by related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1e
 
No
f Sale of assets to related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1f
 
No
g Purchase of assets from related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1g
 
No
h Exchange of assets with related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1h
 
No
i Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets to related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1i
 
No
j Lease of facilities, equipment, or other assets from related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1j
 
No
k Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations for related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1k
 
No
l Performance of services or membership or fundraising solicitations by related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1l
 
No
m Sharing of facilities, equipment, mailing lists, or other assets with related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1m
Yes
 
n Sharing of paid employees with related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1n
Yes
 
o Reimbursement paid to related organization(s) for expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1o
 
No
p Reimbursement paid by related organization(s) for expenses . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1p
Yes
 
q Other transfer of cash or property to related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1q
 
No
r Other transfer of cash or property from related organization(s) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
1r
 
No
2
If the answer to any of the above is "Yes," see the instructions for information on who must complete this line, including covered relationships and transaction thresholds.
(a)
Name of other organization 		(b)
Transaction
type(a-r) 		(c)
Amount involved 		(d)
Method of determining amount involved
(1) VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FUND

 d 86,495 Cost
(2) VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FUND

 m 19,031 Cost
(3) VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FUND

 n 224,435 Cost
(4) VERMONT PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FUND

 p 99,999 Cost
(5)
(6)
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Page 4
Part VI
Unrelated Organizations Taxable as a Partnership (Complete if the organization answered "Yes" on Form 990, Part IV, line 37.)
Provide the following information for each entity taxed as a partnership through which the organization conducted more than five percent of its activities (measured by total assets or gross revenue) that was not a related organization. See instructions regarding exclusion for certain investment partnerships.
(a)
Name, address, and EIN of entity 		(b)
Primary activity 		(c)
Legal domicile
(state or foreign
country) 		(d)
Predominant income(related, unrelated, excluded from tax under sections 512-514)

(e)
Are all
partners
section
501(c)(3)
organizations? 		(f)
Share of total income




 		(g)
Share of
end-of-year
assets 		(h)
Disproprtionate allocations? 		(i)
Code V—UBI
amount in box
20 of Schedule K-1
(Form 1065) 		(j)
General or
managing
partner? 		(k)
Percentage
ownership
Yes No Yes No Yes No






























Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Schedule R (Form 990) 2011
Page 5
Part VII
Supplemental Information
Complete this part to provide additional information for responses to questions on Schedule R (see instructions).
Identifier Return Reference Explanation
Additional Data


Software ID: 11000175
Software Version: