When considering a donation, it’s essential to ensure that your chosen charity holds IRS 501(c)(3) status. This designation confirms that your contributions are tax-deductible and that the organization is operating within legal guidelines. Many donors prioritize transparency to ensure their gifts make a meaningful impact, and verifying this status is a simple yet vital step.
This page will guide you through how to verify a charity's 501(c)(3) status using the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search. We'll outline the necessary steps, red flags to watch for, and reassuring signals indicating the charity's legitimacy, helping you feel confident in your donation decisions.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Access the IRS TEOS
Visit the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. This tool allows you to search for charities by their name or Employer Identification Number (EIN).
Enter Information
Input the charity's name or EIN into the search bar. Make sure the details are accurate to ensure you get the right results for the organization you are researching.
Check the Status
Review the search results. The charity should display a status of 'Currently Exempt' and confirm that it falls under the 501(c)(3) subsection. This means it’s eligible for tax-deductible donations.
Verify Revocation
Ensure that there is no revocation date listed for the charity. If the status shows revoked, the organization can no longer claim tax-exempt status.
Check State Registration
Visit your state’s Attorney General website to confirm the charity is registered for charitable solicitation. Each state maintains its own registry, which adds an additional layer of validation.
Save Documentation
Take a screenshot or print out the results from the IRS TEOS and the state registry. Keep these documents with your donation records for your future reference, especially for tax purposes.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Current Exempt Status
The charity displays a status of 'Currently Exempt' on the IRS TEOS, confirming its eligibility for tax-deductible donations.
✓ Positive State Registration
The charity is listed in your state’s AG charitable solicitation registry, indicating compliance with state regulations for fundraising.
✓ Transparent Reporting
The organization publishes its Form 990 filings regularly, showing commitment to transparency and accountability.
✓ Good Ratings
The charity has positive ratings on independent review sites like Charity Navigator or Better Business Bureau, suggesting it effectively manages its operations and donor funds.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ Revocation Date Present
If the charity shows a revocation date in the IRS TEOS, it indicates that they have lost their tax-exempt status, which means your donations will not be tax-deductible.
⚠ No State Registration
If the charity is not listed in your state's charitable solicitation registry, it may be operating illegally. This could indicate a lack of transparency and accountability.
⚠ Inconsistent Information
Discrepancies between the information on the IRS TEOS and the organization's own website or promotional materials can be a red flag. Always cross-check details for consistency.
⚠ Lack of Form 990 Filings
If the charity's Form 990 filings are missing for three consecutive years, they risk losing their 501(c)(3) status. Look for transparency in their reporting.
Tools + resources
- https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- https://charitynavigator.org
- https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- https://bbb.org/charity-reviews
- https://www.nass.org/can-I-vote
Oklahoma state-level oversight
In Oklahoma, you can verify charity registrations through the Oklahoma Attorney General's website, which provides a list of registered charitable organizations. Additionally, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers resources for checking the legitimacy of charities operating in the state. The Oklahoma Center for Nonprofits also provides support and resources to promote transparency and accountability among local charitable organizations.