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. Donors are allowed to claim a charitable deduction for donations to a church that meets the section 501(c)(3) requirements, even though the church has neither sought nor received IRS recognition that it is tax-exempt.

Many churches do seek IRS recognition of tax-exempt status because that recognition provides reliance to church leaders, members and contributors that a church is recognized as exempt from taxation and is eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions.

To qualify as a church for the 501(c)(3) application, a religious organization must meet certain criteria defined by the IRS.

Among these criteria are a distinct legal existence, a recognized creed and form of worship, a formal code of doctrine and discipline, and a distinct religious history.

Additionally, the organization should have an organization of ordained ministers, regular congregations, regular religious services, and established places of worship.

You will start by choosing your domain name, usually with the extension .org (www.yourname.org) We will then create for you a one-page starter website showing who, what, where and how of your organization. Your mission, vision and goals. Included is a branded email. e.g. (support@yourdomain.org) Later on, you’ll be able to be able to upgrade and have all the expandable plugins available.

We will review your Articles of Incorporation for specific organizational and dissolution clauses that must be stated. If the articles do not have them, we will need to file an amendment. (Included)

You will need to file Form 1023-EZ within 27 months after the end of the month in which you were legally formed. If you file after, the effective date of your exempt status will be the date of the application.

The fees vary by state, usually from $50.00 to $100.00

Generally, on an average, it takes 7 to 10 business days.

A “registered agent” (or RA) is designated by a business to receive official legal documents, such as lawsuit papers, subpoenas, and other legal notices. Most states require a registered agent. The RA’s business office is called the registered office and must have a street (no PO boxes) address in the state

A nonprofit needs a board of directors to oversee operations. Most states require nonprofits to have at least three directors on the board.

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number, and is used to identify a business entity. Nonprofits need an EIN. 

Tax exemption under section 501(c)(3) is a matter of federal law. After receiving federal tax exemption, you may also be required to apply with your state to obtain exemption from state taxes.

Many states have laws regulating the solicitation of funds for charitable purposes. These statutes generally require organizations to register with a state agency before soliciting. In addition, organizations may be required to file periodic financial reports. State laws may impose additional requirements on fundraising activity involving paid solicitors and fundraising counsel. 

In most states, your organization is not automatically exempt from state sales tax, even after obtaining 501(c)(3) recognition from the IRS. You must file a separate application in order to receive state sales tax exemption.

Generally, the Exemption from local property taxes is available for property of organizations: Formed and operated exclusively for qualifying purposes (religious, scientific, hospital, or charitable), That use their property exclusively for those qualifying purposes, and That has a current tax-exempt letter from the Internal Revenue Service or the Franchise Tax Board.

The IRS user fee for Form 1023 is $600.00 The user fees must be paid through Pay.gov when the application is filed.

According to the IRS website, 3 to 6 months.

Yes. Your 501(c)(3) status will retro act back to the date of your incorporation. Thereby, they will be fully deductible to the Donner.

Generally, if you file Form 1023-EZ within 27 months after the end of the month in which you were legally formed, and we approve the application, the legal date of formation will be the effective date of your exempt status.

Generally, an organization is required to file an annual 990 series returns However, an eligible organization, that normally has gross receipts of $50,000 or less is required to file annual electronic notice on Form 990-N (e-Postcard) 

Most small tax-exempt organizations whose annual gross receipts are normally $50,000 or less are required to electronically submit Form 990-N, also known as the e-Postcard, by the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of your tax year.

Tax exemption under section 501(c)(3) is a matter of federal law. After receiving federal tax exemption, you may also be required to register with your state to solicit contributions and to obtain exemption from state taxes.