Most organizations use Form 1023 Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, and the related instructions to apply for recognition by the IRS of exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. (Organizations applying for recognition of exemption under section 501(c)(4) use Form 1024-A and its instructions. Organizations applying under other 501(c) subsections or section 521 use Form 1024 and its instructions.) The application must be complete and accompanied by the appropriate user fee. Forms 1023, 1023-EZ, 1024 and 1024-A must be submitted electronically on www.pay.gov. See Application Process for a step-by-step review of what an organization needs to know and to do in order to apply for recognition by the IRS of tax-exempt status. Frequently asked questions about applying for exemption are also available. The organization should also request an employer identification number, even if it does not have any employees. See How to Apply for an EIN. You may obtain an EIN via telephone (international applicants), by mail, or by applying online. A tax-exempt organization must make available for public inspection its approved application for recognition of exemption with all supporting documents available and its last three annual information returns. The organization must provide copies of these documents upon request without charge (other than a reasonable fee for reproduction and copying costs). Penalties are provided for failure to comply with these requirements. Additional information No Application Form Specified Frequently asked questions - disclosure T.D. 8818 (final disclosure regulations) Publication 557, Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization PDF Publication 4573, Group Exemptions PDF Publication 1635, Understanding Your EIN PDF Disclosure Requirements PDF
