How to Check Your 501c3 Status

The IRS has the ability to grant tax exemption to organizations such as charities.

If you are starting a nonprofit organization or charity, you may be eligible to apply for tax exemption. Tax exemption, or a 501c3 status, is managed by the Internal Revenue Service. If you have recently applied for tax exemption for your organization, the IRS will notify you of the outcome of your application. In the meantime, there are three ways you can check your status.

Instructions

1. Call the IRS directly. Dial its Tax Exempt and Government Entities Customer Account Services line at 877-829-5500 to speak to an operator who can check your status for you. Have your organization's details handy.

2. Write a query letter to the IRS Exempt Organizations Determinations office:

   Internal Revenue Service

   Exempt Organizations Determinations

   P.O. Box 2508

   Cincinnati, OH 45201

3. Search for your organization in the charity list on the IRS website. Go to the IRS Search for Charities website (see Resources for link), click the "Search Now" button and enter the name of your organization.

Tips & Warnings

• It can take weeks or months for the IRS to determine whether your application for tax exemption has been granted.

References

• IRS: How to Contact the Tax Exempt and Government Entities Division
• IRS: Search for Charities