To apply for recognition by the IRS of exempt status under IRC Section 501(c)(3), you must use either Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ. All organizations seeking exemption under IRC Section 501(c)(3) can use Form 1023, but certain small organizations can apply using the shorter Form 1023-EZ.
Religious organizations are organizations whose identity and mission are derived from a religious or spiritual tradition and which operate as regis- tered or unregistered, nonprofit, voluntary entities.
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.
All organizations seeking exemption under IRC Section 501(c)(3) can use Form 1023, but certain small organizations can apply using the shorter Form 1023-EZ. Go to the Eligibility Worksheet to see if you qualify to file Form 1023-EZ.
Churches (including integrated auxiliaries and conventions or associations of churches) that meet the requirements of section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code are automatically considered tax exempt and are not required to apply for and obtain recognition of exempt status from the IRS.
How to start a church: A checklist Gain experience as a preacher. Start a nonprofit and structure it ingly. Give your church a name, a mission statement, and bylaws. Hire a lawyer, a finance team, and form a board of directors. Build your congregation. Develop and implement a fundraising strategy.
Are you passionate about your faith, but unsure how to start a church? Before you can file for non-profit status, you need to first establish a fellowship of like-minded people that share the same beliefs. The IRS will require you to have three founding members who are not related by blood or marriage.
Let's get started! Name Your Organization. Choose a Nevada nonprofit corporation structure. Recruit Incorporators and Initial Directors. Appoint a Registered Agent. Prepare and File Articles of Incorporation. File Initial Report. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) ... Store Nonprofit Records.
How to Start a Church in 5 Steps Determine the logistics. First and foremost, you'll need to decide your church's identity. Write bylaws. Incorporate your church. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) ... Apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
Here in the United States, church congregations and/or dioceses are responsible for their own buildings.