As a donor, it’s essential to ensure that your contributions go to legitimate and trustworthy charities. Verifying a charity's IRS 501(c)(3) status is a crucial step in this process, safeguarding your tax deductions and ensuring your support is meaningful.
This page guides you through the process of verifying a charity’s status using the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search tool, along with state and local resources. By following these steps, you can confidently donate, knowing your generosity is in support of a qualified nonprofit.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Visit the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search
Go to the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. This online tool is vital for checking a charity's tax-exempt status.
Enter the Charity’s EIN or Name
Input the charity’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) or its name into the search bar. This will pull up the organization's tax status from the IRS database.
Verify the Status
Ensure the status reads 'Currently Exempt' along with the subsection '501(c)(3)'. This indicates the organization is qualified for tax-deductible donations.
Check for Revocation
Ensure there is no revocation date listed next to the organization's name. A blank revocation date means the charity has maintained its tax-exempt status.
Consult State AG Charitable Registration
Visit your state Attorney General's website to confirm that the charity is registered for charitable solicitation. Each state has its own registry.
Document Your Findings
Save a printout or screenshot of the verification results. Keeping a record of your findings with your donation file helps in case of future audits.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Positive IRS Status
A confirmed 'Currently Exempt' status by the IRS is a strong indicator that the charity is compliant with federal regulations.
✓ State Registration
Successful registration with your state’s Attorney General enhances the charity's credibility and compliance with local laws.
✓ Transparent Communication
A charity that provides clear information about its mission, financials, and impact is likely to be legitimate and accountable.
✓ Accreditation
Accreditation from organizations like the Better Business Bureau or Charity Navigator reflects a commitment to ethical practices and transparency.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ Missing EIN
If a charity is unable to provide its EIN or if the EIN does not return any results, proceed cautiously. This can be a sign of an unregistered organization.
⚠ Revoked Status
If the IRS TEOS shows a revocation date, the charity has lost its tax-exempt status. Donating to such organizations can disqualify your tax deduction.
⚠ Lack of Registration
Absence of charitable-solicitation registration in your state may indicate that the charity is not operating within legal parameters.
⚠ Negative Reviews
If the charity has negative reviews on platforms like the Better Business Bureau, it may suggest issues with transparency or trustworthiness.
Tools + resources
- IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search: https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- Charity Navigator: https://www.charitynavigator.org
- ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer: https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- Better Business Bureau Charity Reviews: https://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews
- State Attorney General's Office: [Insert your state AG URL here]
- Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org
Orlando state-level oversight
In Orlando, FL, you can check the state Attorney General's website for charitable organization registrations, ensuring the charity is compliant and transparent. Local resources like the Better Business Bureau can provide valuable insights into charitable organizations in the area. Additionally, the Florida Nonprofit Alliance offers support and advocacy for registered nonprofits, promoting transparency and ethical practices in charitable giving.