For the first time since 1979, IRS released new instructions for Form 990 filing for 2008 (for ’09 filing). The good news: The revised instructions have several new tools that should make it easier for you to answer line-by-line questions. The new instructions were based on extensive feedback from Accounting pros who’ve struggled at times to deal with the forms.

IRS said instructions for Form 990-EZ will be released in the next few weeks.

Even better: Many organizations that weren’t eligible to file the shorter 990-EZ in prior years will be able to do so for ’08.

Tags: E-filing, IRS, Payroll, Resource, Tax compliance, Tax filing, Tax-exempt organizations