TY 2021 ReasonableCauseExplanation
Name:
ZETA BETA TAU FRATERNITY
ZBT Xi Chapter Inc dba Zeta Beta Tau Fraternity
Explanation:
Introduction: Concerning our Form 990-EZ tax return for the tax year ending 12/31/2021, we believe there is reasonable cause for filing late and hereby request that the IRS abate the late-filing penalties. Historical Background Facts: ZBT is an undergraduate college fraternity chapter that relies on all-volunteer advisors for assistance with organizational and business complexities such as tax filings. In the past, we have filed our tax returns on time. I have served as the main volunteer for many years and have handled tax filings. We have relied on the undergraduate officers to collect revenue (rent/dues), manage budgets and expenditures, and properly record revenues and expenses for tax filing purposes. This has worked well for many years. Recent Background Facts: Unfortunately, the undergraduate fraternity has declined during recent years, with poor recruitment, lack of organization, smaller numbers, and some officers who do not fulfil their responsibilities. Compounding this, the pandemic made it very difficult for volunteer advisors to educate officers on responsibilities and stress the need for certain things to be done properly. Finally, I had serious health issues starting in late 2020 and was unable to address the situation effectively throughout 2021 and into 2022. Lateness Cause: In 2021, the undergraduate finance director did not provide categorized tax information, despite being asked repeatedly. Other officers were unable to provide the needed information. The finance director, in fact, left the fraternity. The fraternity also experienced other financial complications, including unpaid bills and rent. As a result, we did not have sufficient information to file a correct 2021 tax return in a timely manner, despite having filed an extension, and we had to address more than just the tax issue. Ordinary Business Prudence: It has taken many months of volunteer time to sort out the correct revenue and expense figures and categories for 2021, as well as set up more financial controls. We acted with normal business care and prudence. We understand the importance of supplying correct information to the IRS. In addition, we need correct information for future budgeting purposes. We are submitting our 2021 return with this letter before receiving a late filing notice from the IRS. We believe all this demonstrates that we acted responsibly and in good faith, and that we did not willfully neglect our filing requirement. Prevention of Future Late Filings: As part of the work performed to rectify the chapter's finances, a system has been set up whereby the undergraduate officers report revenue and expense information monthly for tax filing preparation purposes. This is part of a broader effort to build more responsibility among the officers and members, especially in financial management. Conclusion: We respectfully request that the IRS abate all assessed penalties and interest related to our 2021 Form 990-EZ. Thank you for considering our request. Under penalties of perjury, I declare that the facts presented here, to the best of my knowledge and belief, are true, correct, and complete.