Needham Observer
Public records show a registered, tax-exempt organization in good standing.
What it says it does
The Needham Observer is a free, independent, nonprofit 501(c)(3) news service founded and operated by a volunteer group of journalists and engaged community members. Our mission is to provide timely information, interesting features, and a variety of perspectives that represent the breadth of our community. Our vision is to reflect Needham back to itself in a way that fosters and expands connections across all segments of town. We are committed to diversity, inclusion, equity, and belonging in what we cover and in how and with whom we work.
- Income
- $180,195
- Spending
- $34,270
- Reserves
- 95.6 months of spending
- Largest source of income
- donations and private grants, 100%
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Financial health
We do not score finances when yearly spending is very small or the return has too little detail. The ratios stop meaning much at that size.
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Governance
This organization files the short tax form, which does not ask about boards, policies or audits. That is normal for a small charity and is not a mark against it.
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Impact evidence
Describes programs. Its tax return describes what it does but we have found no measurable results in it.
Programs described in its return (3)
- $4,045 spent. Program Service #1: Local News Production and Distribution The organization produced and distributed original local journalism covering town governance, schools, business, culture, and community events. Content was shared through an email newsletter and online publication platform. Expenses: $1,268 (Email Marketing) + $1599 (Miscellaneous Technology) + $1177 (Subscriptions) = $4045
- $1,606 spent. Program Service #2: Community Engagement and Partnerships The organization participated in and reported on local events and initiatives in collaboration with civic and nonprofit groups, including membership in the local Chamber of Commerce. These efforts strengthened community ties and increased visibility of local issues. Expenses: $515 (Chamber Activity) + $360 Institute Nonprofit News Membership + $731 (Administration/Supplies) = $1,606
- $18,971 spent. Program Service #3: Fundraising and Organizational Sustainability The organization conducted fundraising campaigns and maintained insurance and compliance practices to ensure ongoing operational health and risk management as a public charity. Expenses: $13,494 (Fundraising) + $5,320 (Insurance) + $157 (Legal and Compliance) = $18,971
Source: Form 990EZ for the year ending December 31, 2025, filed with the Internal Revenue Service. Rating method 2026.2. How we rate
Legitimacy checks
Is it registered with the IRS? Passed.
Listed in the IRS master file of tax-exempt organizations as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
Has the IRS revoked its tax-exempt status? Passed.
Not on the IRS automatic revocation list.
Source: Automatic revocation of exemption list, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 30, 2026.
Are donations tax-deductible? Passed.
On the IRS list of organizations eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.
Source: Publication 78 data: organizations eligible for tax-deductible contributions, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 10, 2026.
Is it keeping up with its IRS filings? Passed.
Most recent return on file covers the year ending December 2025.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
How long has it been tax-exempt? Passed.
Recognized by the IRS since February 2023.
Source: Exempt Organizations Business Master File, Internal Revenue Service, file dated September 7, 2026.
Is it in good standing with state regulators? Passed.
Not on California's list of charities barred from soliciting. Other states are not yet checked.
Source: May Not Operate or Solicit for Charitable Purposes list, California Attorney General, Registry of Charities and Fundraisers, file dated October 7, 2026.
Ratings and checks are our reading of public records, using the published method. They are not a statement about anyone's honesty. If you work for this organization, you can send corrections or results, confirm you want gifts through Veridonate, or ask to be removed from giving.