- April 25, 2023
Federal tax obligations provide information about the legal duties of individuals and organizations to comply with the tax laws and regulations set forth by the federal government.
A non-profit organization is an entity that aims not to generate profit and offers goods and services to the community for charitable, educational, religious, or other purposes. A nonprofit corporation is a legally established entity that endeavors activities useful to society without aiming at earning profits. Their key goals include pursuing social, educational, religious, literary, or charitable objectives. Nonprofits usually satisfy state and federal requirements when being formed to obtain tax exemptions.
Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code offers tax exemption to nonprofit corporations. This category of the organization is free from federal income tax. However, it might still be required to pay other taxes like employment, excise, and unrelated business income taxes. Furthermore, maintaining the tax-exempt status involves filing forms such as Form 990 and complying with specific state and local regulations that apply only to non-profit organizations.
What makes an organization tax-exempt?
A non-profit status can render an organization eligible for benefits, such as state sales, property, and income tax exemptions. It is important to note that obtaining this corporate status does not automatically entitle them to an exemption. To be tax-exempt at the federal level, most organizations must apply with the Internal Revenue Service,to obtain a ruling or determination letter confirming their eligibility for such an exemption.
It is possible to seek federal tax-exempt status from the IRS for charitable organizations under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The articles of incorporation must include specific provisions.
It is also important to note that an organization must apply within 27 months after the month of its creation to be exempt from section 501(c)(3).
Federal Tax obligation for non-profit corporations
Nonprofit organizations must meet certain criteria to be exempt from taxes, which include being established and functioning solely for charitable, scientific, religious, or public safety causes. In addition, they are obligated to generate revenue and transfer the entire amount (after expenses have been deducted) to legitimate charity organizations or persons who have been lawfully recognized as non-profits.
Organizations such as private foundations and churches that operate as nonprofits have an advantage in fundraising. This makes them more appealing to individuals and other entities who can benefit from contributing to these tax-exempt by reducing their taxable income. Nonprofit organizations must pay income taxes on money earned through activities that do not align with their primary objectives.
Bottom Line:
No, non-profit organizations are not completely tax-exempt. Their tax-exempt status only means that they are exempt from paying federal corporate income taxes on the income generated from activities for which the institution has been set up. These organizations should, however, pay federal income taxes and taxes on unrelated business income. The taxing system for non-profit organizations could be highly intimidating and confusing. To avoid such confusion in preparing and paying the taxes on time, the organizations can take help from taxing experts at Tax2efile. These experts will help prepare and file the taxes on time to avoid late fines and penalties.
