A 501(c) organization and a 501(c)3 organization are similar in designation, however they differ slightly in their tax benefits. Both types of organization are exempt from federal income tax, however a 501(c)3 may allow its donors to write off donations whereas a 501(c) does not.
If you file Form 1023, the average IRS processing time is 6 months. Processing times of 9 or 12 months are not unheard of.
Most organizations described in Section 501(c)(4) are required to notify the IRS that they are operating under Section 501(c)(4) within 60 days of formation by filing Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4). If an organization doesn't submit a timely notification, a penalty will be assessed.
Nonprofit charities are under the jurisdiction of state and national laws, so they must comply with both legal systems. With that in mind, the federal government requires a minimum of three board members to acquire coveted 501c3 tax-exempt status.
To be tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, an organization must be organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3), and none of its earnings may inure to any private shareholder or individual.
Organizations must electronically file this form to apply for recognition of exemption from federal income tax under section 501(c)(3). Note. You may be eligible to file Form 1023-EZ, a streamlined version of the application for recognition of tax exemption.
Most organizations described in Section 501(c)(4) are required to notify the IRS that they are operating under Section 501(c)(4) within 60 days of formation by filing Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4). If an organization doesn't submit a timely notification, a penalty will be assessed.
In order to become a tax-exempt nonprofit, one must file for tax-exempt status. This is a difficult process and professional help is often recommended. The most common way to become a tax-exempt nonprofit is by establishing the organization as a section 501(c)(3) entity with the IRS.
How to become a 501(c)(3) organization: The key to tax-exempt status for non-profits Step 1: Incorporate before applying for tax-exempt status. Step 2: Get an EIN. Step 3: File form 1023 with the IRS. Step 4: Ensure your 501(c)(3) also has tax-exempt status at the state and local level.