Q How do we get started?
Last Modified: September 30, 2005 01:29 PM
Article ID: 10010
Q Can we get 501(c) (3) status without hiring an attorney or accountant?
A You know that 501(c) (3) status is vital to the success of your non-profit organization. What could be more important than tax deductions for your donors, and the ability to apply for government and foundation grants?
Beware of do-it-yourself 501(c) (3) templates and downloads sold on the internet. It is a too much of a risk to try for 501(c)(3) recognition on your own! You are not alone in asking. We receive every year many calls from do-it-yourselfers and even 1st time accountants. They cry help. The IRS receives huge numbers of do-it-yourself 501(c)(3 incomplete applications every year, slowing down the processing of all applications.
Q How do we get started?
A fill out the GG Ministries Professional Services agreement Form
We will review and if we are 100% certain we can get the 501(c)(3) status for your organization we will send you our letter of engagement spelling out everything in writing.
Q How do we make payment?
A You can pay using check, check by fax, Visa, MasterCard, Discovery, American Express, and e-check. Along with the letter of engagement will be an invoice.
We will need 50% of our professional fees before inception.
Q Do you provide guarantees?
A Yes, we never take on an organization that we are not 100% sure that we can obtain the 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. If we can not obtain the status for your organization we will simply refund you the monies, no questions asked.
Q Is there anything that we have to fill out?
A We have a small questioner sheet that you will fill out so that we may use to prepare the applicable applications and documents.
Q How do we communicate?
A You can communicate with us using any of the following: 800 telephone, VOI, voice mail, email, US mail, FedEx, UPS, live chat and eFax.
Q How long does the process take?
A It usually takes us approximately 7 working days to finish all the applicable documents. We will then ship them to you via US priority mail with tracking numbers.
Q What do we do when we get the documents?
A Each application or documents have separate cover letters and mailing instructions.
Simply go to the color tabs located throughout each applications and documents and sign and mail. You will also need to attach a check or money order.
Q After we mail off the documents what happens next?
A You will receive your articles of Incorporation back stamped and filed from the secretary of your state within 10 working days.
You will receive your employer identification number within 5 business days from the IRS.
You will receive a letter (notice 3367) within 15 days from the IRS acknowledging your request. They will also issue your organization a document locator number.
Your application will be schedule for an initial review. If there is no further additional information needed the IRS can approve your application usually in 45 days.
If the initial review indicates that additional information or changes are necessary, your application will be assigned to an Exempt Organization Specialist who will call or write within 120 days.
Q What do we need to open a bank account?
A You will need your articles of Incorporation, board minutes and employer identification number. The above items will be processed and mailed directly to you.
Q Can we ask for donations before we get our tax exempt status?
A Yes, however, we must first register your organization with your State Charitable solicitation department. One you are approved and receive back from your state the approval letter (average 15 days) you may begin to solicit for funds in your state.
If your charitable, educational, scientific or religious organization submits its application to the IRS by the deadline described above and is approved, the "effective date" of your group’s tax exempt status will be the day it was originally created. This means that contributions that your organization received after incorporation, but before the IRS issued your exemption letter will be deductible.
Q Now that I have my 501(c)(3) tax exempt status is that it?
A Depending on what type of ruling you get, you will need to file annual reports to the IRS and state. Also you will need to make sure that you meet the support test.
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