Harry and Meghan’s charitable foundation has been declared in default

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s Archewell Foundation was forced to suspend operations, at least temporarily, after failing to file tax returns and other documents on time and being declared “criminal” by California authorities.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who founded the charity after stepping down from royal duties in the UK in 2020, have been “listed as delinquent on the Register of Charities and Fundraisers for failing to submit required annual reports and/or renewals.” to be submitted”. charges,” People reported, citing California Attorney General Rob Bonta’s office.

The duo did not comment on the development on Monday. The foundation’s website lists it as an official tax-exempt nonprofit organization that “complies with all deadlines and policies of the nonprofit sector and operates with complete transparency,” and lists a number of annual reports and other required documents available for inspection. which, however, will not be extended after 2023. The last tax exemption application displayed on the IRS website was for 2022.

Since May 1, the foundation’s ability to raise funds has been limited.

“An organization listed as delinquent is not in good standing and is prohibited from engaging in conduct that requires registration, including soliciting or disbursing charitable donations,” the statement said People received document.

“Penalties may also be imposed on the organization and its registration may be suspended or revoked by the Registry. Once you submit the late payment documents, you will be notified of the amount of late fees you may owe.”

Required documents and a check were actually submitted but were lost in the mail, a source claimed to People. Those responsible at the foundation only found out about the problem when the criminal complaint was received. A new check was sent and the issue would be resolved within a week, the foundation said.

The foundation has posted updates from Harry and Meghan’s trip to Nigeria, which is still ongoing.

Their work has been praised, including in New York City, where they received the Ripple of Hope Award from Robert F. Kennedy Human Rights, a nonprofit organization, in December 2022 for their work on racial justice.