Your exemption application may provide enough information for the IRS to issue a ruling on your exempt status under section 501(c)(3). However, an IRS reviewer may need additional information to complete your application. The reviewer will call the organization or an authorized representative advising that the application was assigned for development and an additional information request letter is being sent to the organization. While you wait If an annual exempt organization return is due while the organization's application for recognition of exempt status is pending with the IRS (including any appeal of a proposed adverse determination), the organization must file it, indicating that its exemption application is pending. Like other exempt organization returns, these are subject to public disclosure. If an organization has unrelated business income of more than $1,000, also file Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return PDF. Your organization should comply with tax law requirements applicable to section 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations. See Publication 4221-PC, Compliance Guide for 501(c)(3) Public Charities PDF, for more information. Incomplete application If an exemption application does not contain the required information, the IRS may return it with a letter of explanation, and will not consider the application on its merits. Generally, if an application is returned because it's substantially incomplete, the filing date is the date the organization resubmits a complete application and the IRS accepts it for processing. Different application form needed If a different application form is required for your organization, the IRS will so advise your organization and will provide the appropriate application form for your convenience in reapplying under that paragraph, if you wish to do so. Although supporting information previously furnished need not be duplicated, you must provide any necessary additional information required for the application. If your reply is not received within the specified time, your application will be processed only for the paragraph under which you originally applied. When a specific application form is needed for the paragraph under which your organization may qualify, that form is required before a letter recognizing exemption can be issued. This includes cases in which an exemption letter is modified to recognize an organization's exempt status under a paragraph other than the paragraph under which it originally established exemption. IRS responses Organizations that submit a complete application will receive an acknowledgment from the IRS. Others will receive a letter requesting more information or returning an incomplete application. These letters will be sent out as soon as possible after receipt of the organization's application. Interactive training Learn more about the benefits, limitations and expectations of tax-exempt organizations by attending 10 courses at the online Small to Mid-Size Tax Exempt Organization Workshop. Return to Life Cycle of a Public Charity
