Publication 557
From TaxAlmanac
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Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization
Overview
This publication discusses the rules and procedures for organizations that seek recognition of exemption from federal income tax under Sec. 501(a) of the Internal Revenue Code (the Code). It explains the procedures you must follow to obtain an appropriate ruling or determination letter recognizing your organization's exemption, as well as certain other information that applies generally to all exempt organizations. To qualify for exemption under the Code, your organization must be organized for one or more of the purposes specifically designated in the Code. Organizations that are exempt under section 501(a) of the Code include those organizations described in section 501(c). Section 501(c) organizations are covered in this publication.
Chapter 1 provides general information about the procedures for obtaining recognition of tax-exempt status.
Chapter 2 contains information about annual filing requirements and other matters that may affect your organization's tax-exempt status.
Chapter 3 contains detailed information on various matters affecting section 501(c)(3) organizations, including a section on the determination of private foundation status.
Chapter 4 includes separate sections for specific types of organizations described in section 501(c).
Chapter 5 provides information on when excise taxes may be imposed.