How to Have a Church Exempt From Property Taxes
Gaining tax exempt status for your church will save you thousands of dollars each year. Your tax exempt ID number will excuse the church from paying property taxes, and sales taxes on everything from office supplies to building construction materials. Gaining a tax exempt number will also allow church members to deduct their donations to the church from their federal income taxes.
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Things You'll Need
- Computer with an Internet connection
- Your denominational headquarters contact information
Instructions
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A phone call may save you a lot of time Call your denominational headquarters if you are affiliated with a larger church body. They may have an umbrella tax exempt number that your congregation can use, as well as advice to offer your congregation.
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Church records Locate your church's articles of organization (also called articles of incorporation). They are probably on file in the local courthouse if your don't have a copy of them in your church office. You will need these when you file for 501 (c) (3) status.
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Finish the paperwork File Form SS-4 online (see the link below in "Resources"), or you can request a paper application by phone 800-829-3676. The IRS will issue you an Employer Identification Number. Once you get your EIN, file Form 1023.
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Wait for the IRS Wait for the IRS to send you a letter with your tax exempt number certifying your tax exemption. Send a copy of this letter to your local Property Valuation Office, and take it to any store to provide proof of your tax exempt status.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit church. Entrance of a church image by L. Shat from Fotolia.com smiling on phone call image by jimcox40 from Fotolia.com documents image by AGITA LEIMANE from Fotolia.com tax forms image by Chad McDermott from Fotolia.com e-mail image by fotoman_65 from Fotolia.com
