
Episode #94
Tax-Exempt Organizations
Episode 94: In this episode, Timalyn explains what a tax-exempt organization is, the criteria to qualify as one, and the ongoing tax filing obligations. This episode is for taxpayers who are looking for the validity of a tax-exempt organization as well as those interested in starting a tax-exempt organization. What is a Tax-Exempt Organization? A tax-exempt organization is one that is excused from paying income taxes on the income earned that is connected to the stated purpose and mission of the organization. They are also known as charitable organizations. These organizations must receive their exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service. There is an exception for churches. While the organization may be tax-exempt, donations to them may not be tax-deductible. There are different types of tax-exempt organizations under §501(c). Timalyn goes over a few of them and urges listeners not to let their giving be guided by tax deductibility alone. The IRS has a tax-exempt organization directory that you can use to look up different tax-exempt organizations. You can check it out here: Tax Exempt Organization Search . Even if donations are deductible, it’s important to understand whether or not you can deduct them under the new charitable contributions rules. Timalyn goes over those new rules in Episode 68: Charitable Contributions . What Qualifies as a Tax-Exempt Organization? There are certain rules that must be established and followed when creating a non-profit. 1 - Must be organized and operated exclusively for the exempt purpose(s) that are stated. 2 - None of the earnings may go to private shareholders or the private interest of an individual 3 - No political influence - it is not used to influence legislation aka lobbying as the main activity 4 - If engaged in an excess benefit transaction with a person who has substantial influence over the organization, an excise tax may be imposed. How to become a tax-exempt organization You can’t just start a business and say we are a non-profit. There are steps that have to be taken before you can even request exemption. 1 - Incorporate with your secretary of state 2 - Create your articles of incorporation 3 - Get an EIN from the IRS using Form SS-4 4 - File Form 1023 or 1023-EZ if applicable How do you keep your tax-exempt status? To maintain tax-exempt status, an organization needs to keep up with its tax filing obligations. A tax-exempt organization files a tax form in the 990 series each year. This is not to calculate income tax. Instead, it is for the financial transparency of the organization. Some tax-exempt organizations even make their 990 available on the IRS website for donors and future donors to see. Failing to file a 990 on time can result in penalties and even losing exempt status. Need Tax Help Now? If you need answers to your tax debt questions, book a consultation with Timalyn via her Bowens Tax Solutions website. Book a Call with Timalyn . Please consider sharing this episode with your friends and family. This information might be helpful to someone who really needs it. As we conclude Episode 94, we encourage you to follow Timalyn on social media . You’ll be able to subscribe to this podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and many other podcast platforms. Remember, Timalyn Bowens is America’s Favorite EA , and she’s here to fill the tax literacy gap, one taxpayer at a time. Thanks for listening to today’s episode. For more information about tax relief options or filing your taxes, visit https://www.Bowenstaxsolutions.com/ . If you have any feedback or suggestions for an upcoming episode topic, please submit them here: https://www.americasfavoriteea.com/contact . Disclaimer: This podcast is for informational and educational purposes only. It provides a framework and possible solutions for solving your tax problems, but it is not legally binding. Please consult your tax professional regarding your specific tax situation.

