Quick charity verification for Docent Research Group (EIN: 200273527)
Verdict: Docent Research Group appears trustworthy
85/100Mission Score
$864KRevenue
$293KAssets
2Red Flags
4Strengths
Red Flags
Recent years show minor operating deficits (e.g., 2019 expenses $954,578 vs. revenue $863,978), which if sustained, could impact long-term financial stability.
A gradual decline in total assets from $384,426 in 2013 to $292,611 in 2019, suggesting some depletion of reserves over time.
Strengths
Consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all filings, indicating high efficiency and dedication of funds to mission.
Long operational history with 10 years of IRS 990 filings, demonstrating stability and transparency.
Relatively low liabilities compared to assets, indicating a healthy balance sheet and low financial risk.
Stable revenue generation over the past decade, generally between $700,000 and $900,000.
Spending Breakdown
How Docent Research Group 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 Docent Research Group
Is Docent Research Group a legitimate charity?
Based on AI analysis of IRS 990 filings, Docent Research Group (EIN: 200273527) appears trustworthy. Mission Score: 85/100. 2 red flags identified, 4 strengths noted.
Is Docent Research Group a good charity to donate to?
Docent Research Group has a Mission Score of 85/100. Revenue: $864K. Assets: $293K. Review the full transparency report for detailed spending breakdown and executive compensation analysis.
What is the EIN for Docent Research Group?
The Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Docent Research Group is 200273527. 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 Docent Research Group spend its money?
Docent Research Group allocates 85% to programs, 10% to administration, and 5% to fundraising. Healthy nonprofits typically spend 75%+ on programs.
How can I verify Docent Research Group's tax-exempt status?
You can verify Docent Research Group's tax-exempt status using EIN 200273527 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
Docent Research Group demonstrates consistent operational activity with revenues generally in the range of $700,000 to $900,000 over the past decade. The organization's financial health appears stable, though it has experienced slight net losses in recent years, such as in 2019 where expenses ($954,578) exceeded revenue ($863,978). Assets have seen a gradual decline from a peak of $384,426 in 2013 to $292,611 in 2019, while liabilities have remained relatively low and manageable, indicating a healthy balance sheet.
The spending efficiency is difficult to fully assess without a detailed breakdown of program, administrative, and fundraising expenses. However, the consistent reporting of 0% officer compensation across all filings suggests a commitment to minimizing executive overhead, which is a positive indicator for donor funds being directed towards the mission. The organization's long filing history (10 filings) and consistent reporting of financial data contribute to its transparency.
Overall, Docent Research Group appears to be a financially stable organization with a long operational history. While recent years show minor operating deficits, its asset base and low liabilities provide a buffer. The absence of officer compensation is a notable strength in terms of spending efficiency and transparency.