Do you have to be certified as Non-profit with the IRS to receive donations?

Question

I have a small ministry I run from home and school, it's not huge but we make a big difference in our community. Recently, I've needed some donations. Do I have to file with the IRS as non-profit to receive them? It seems stupid to have the governments nose in everything. If I do, where and how can I get certified?

Answer 1

There are non-profits and 501 C-3 chraritable not for profits.

Only 501-C-3's can offer a tax deduction for contributions.And yes, the IRS must approve these because of the concern for misuse.

Here is a an IRS link for more info

http://www.irs.gov/charities/charitable/...

Answer 2

I'm a co founder for a non profit organization.  I suggest you contact The Foundation group at http://www.501c3.org

The will help you set up your 501 (c) (3) non profit status through the IRS.  Without this status it's against the law to call yourself a non profit and collect donations as a non profit.  Until that status you can ask for donations for a for profit organization.  The likely hood of receiving donations from different businesses and organizations are close to none.  Without you being a non profit (in status), their donation is not a tax write off.

If you would like to see a way that we used to obtaining funding for our non profit while we were waiting for that non profit, and be able to continue on with a monthly funding for your organization, feel free to email me at [e-mail]

Answer 3

Anyone can give anybody some money and call it a "donation" without the IRS getting involved. However, in order for the person to write off that donation as a charitable contribution on their taxes, then yes, you would have to be registered.

Here's relevant info from the IRS:

http://www.irs.gov/charities/churches/in...