Many 501(c)(3) organizations are finding it necessary to cease operations by dissolving or merging out of existence. In order to effectuate such, 501(c)(3) public charities only need to follow the state law requirements (such as filing articles of dissolution), distribute assets consistent with their organizational documents and file a final IRS Form 990.
But a private foundation that desires to cease operations, in addition to following the steps noted above for public chairites, must also take