Quick charity verification for Centenary University (EIN: 221500484)
Verdict: Centenary University appears trustworthy
75/100Mission Score
$71.1MRevenue
$25.1MAssets
2Red Flags
3Strengths
Red Flags
Total expenses have frequently exceeded total revenue in recent years (e.g., 202306: r51,881,982 vs. x56,531,265), indicating a reliance on reserves or other funding sources to cover operational costs.
A significant decrease in assets from $93,250,585 in 201806 to $25,076,601 in 202306 raises concerns about long-term financial stability.
Strengths
Despite financial challenges, the university has maintained a strong commitment to its programs, as evidenced by consistent program spending.
The organization has a long history of operation, with financial data available back to 2016, demonstrating longevity and experience.
The consistent reporting of 0% compensation from related organizations is a positive indicator of ethical financial practices.
Spending Breakdown
How Centenary University allocates its funds across programs, administration, and fundraising.
85%
Program Spending
Healthy — majority goes to mission
10%
Admin Costs
Reasonable — admin costs in check
5%
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 Centenary University
Is Centenary University a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Centenary University (EIN: 221500484) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 75/100. 2 red flags identified, 3 strengths noted.
Is Centenary University a good charity to donate to?
Centenary University has a Mission Score of 75/100. Revenue: $71.1M. Assets: $25.1M. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Centenary University?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Centenary University is 221500484. 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 Centenary University spend its money?
Centenary University allocates 85% to programs, 10% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Centenary University's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Centenary University's tax-exempt status using EIN 221500484 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
Centenary University is a education nonprofit based in Hackettstown, New Jersey, with reported revenue of $71.1M and assets of $25.1M. Our AI analysis assigns a Mission Score of 75/100 (Good). Approximately 85% of spending goes to programs, 10% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Executive compensation is not explicitly detailed in the provided data, but the consistent 0% compensation from related organizations suggests a straightforward compensation structure without hidden benefits. Revenue has grown +12% across 12 filing periods.