Quick charity verification for Aster Inc (EIN: 208192679)
Verdict: Aster Inc shows mixed signals
65/100Mission Score
$286KRevenue
$4.2MAssets
3Red Flags
3Strengths
Red Flags
Consistent operational deficits (expenses exceeding revenue in all reported periods)
Steady decline in total assets over the past decade
Reliance on asset drawdowns to cover operational costs
Strengths
Consistent revenue generation over time
Zero reported officer compensation, indicating low executive overhead
Substantial asset base, providing a buffer despite deficits
Spending Breakdown
How Aster Inc allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
70%
Program Spending
Below average — room for improvement
20%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
10%
Fundraising
Within typical range
How to read this: Well-run charities typically spend 75% or more on programs, keep admin under 25%, and fundraising under 15%. A high program ratio means more of every dollar goes directly to the mission.
How to Interpret This Report
What Red Flags Mean
Red flags are potential warning signs identified by AI analysis of IRS 990 filings. They may indicate issues like declining revenue, high executive pay relative to program spending, lack of transparency, or governance concerns. A single red flag does not necessarily mean an organization is untrustworthy, but multiple flags warrant further investigation before donating.
What Mission Score Measures
The Mission Score (0-100) evaluates how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated purpose. It combines multiple factors: program spending efficiency (how much goes to programs vs. overhead), financial health and sustainability, governance quality, transparency in reporting, and consistency of operations over time. A score of 70+ indicates strong alignment with the organization’s mission.
Using This Data for Donation Decisions
Use this report as one input in your decision. Look at the overall Mission Score for a quick assessment, review red flags and strengths for specific concerns, check the spending breakdown to see where money goes, and compare executive compensation to the organization’s size. Consider viewing the full transparency report for deeper analysis, and always verify tax-exempt status with the IRS before making large donations.
Frequently Asked Questions about Aster Inc
Is Aster Inc a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Aster Inc (EIN: 208192679) shows mixed signals. Mission Score: 65/100. 3 red flags identified, 3 strengths noted.
Is Aster Inc a good charity to donate to?
Aster Inc has a Mission Score of 65/100. Revenue: $286K. Assets: $4.2M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Aster Inc?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Aster Inc is 208192679. This is the unique tax ID assigned by the IRS.
What is a Mission Score?
The Mission Score is a 0-100 rating that measures how effectively a nonprofit fulfills its stated mission. It factors in program spending efficiency, financial transparency, governance practices, and outcome reporting. Scores above 70 indicate strong mission alignment, 40-69 suggest mixed performance, and below 40 signals potential concerns.
How does Aster Inc spend its money?
Aster Inc allocates 70% to programs, 20% to administration, and 10% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Aster Inc's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Aster Inc's tax-exempt status using EIN 208192679 on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. You can also request copies of their Form 990 directly from the organization, as they are required by law to provide them upon request.
AI Transparency Report
Aster Inc. demonstrates consistent financial operations with a stable revenue stream, averaging around $280,000 annually over the past several years. However, the organization has consistently operated at a deficit, with expenses exceeding revenue in every reported period. For example, in 2023, expenses were $427,708 against revenues of $281,583, indicating a significant reliance on existing assets or other non-revenue funding sources to cover operational costs. While the organization's assets are substantial at $4,196,567, they have been steadily declining over the past decade, from $5,562,358 in 2014 to $4,367,546 in 2023, suggesting that the deficits are being covered by drawing down reserves. The consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation indicates a commitment to minimizing administrative overhead in this area, which is a positive sign for transparency and efficiency.