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.
Typically, an organization will receive either a determination letter or request for additional information from the IRS within 90 days of submission. REMEMBER: You do not have to wait for your determination letter – official recognition of your status – from the IRS before you can get to work.
Historically, the IRS denies a very small number of 501(c)(3) applications (less than 1%). It is much more likely that they will ask you questions that seem too hard to answer. As many as 10% of applicants simply give up on their applications for this reason.
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.
Submit Form 8976: File Form 8976 with the IRS. This form notifies the IRS that you plan to operate your nonprofit as a section 501(c)(4) organization³ Submit Form 1024: Acquire tax-exemption status by filing Form 1024 with the IRS⁴ File Form 990 annually: Submit Form 990 every year.
Although they are exempt from income taxation, exempt organizations are generally required to file annual returns of their income and expenses with the Internal Revenue Service. Small tax-exempt organizations with gross receipts under a certain threshold may be required to file an annual electronic notice.
In addition to submitting Form 8976, organizations operating as 501(c)(4) organizations may also choose to file Form 1024-A, Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue Code, to request recognition of tax-exempt status.
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.
Form 1024-A requires applicants to provide somewhat greater detail than Form 1024. For example, Form 1024-A requires organizations to disclose family or business relationships or agreements with any officers, directors, trustees, employees, members, independent contractors, or any entity they own or control.
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.