Churches and religious organizations, like many other charitable organizations, qualify for exemption from federal income tax under IRC section 501c3 and are generally eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. To qualify for tax-exempt status, such an organization must meet the certain specific requirements. These requirements generally outline the specific purposes for which the organization has been organized and operated. Many religious groups seeking exemption from federal income taxes under section 501c3 are in fact organized and operated for religious purposes, but are unsure as to whether they should be classified as a church or as another religious organization, such as a faith-based ministry.

To be considered a church by the Internal Revenue Service, an organization must  meet specific guidelines. If an organization fails to meet these specific standards they may still be eligible for federal tax exemption, however they will be subject to different compliance regulations. Religious organizations that are not churches typically include nondenominational ministries, interdenominational and ecumenical organizations, and other entities whose principal purpose is the study or advancement of religion.

In order to be recognized as a church, and to receive the benefits of such recognition, an organization must possess the following 14 attributes.

• Distinct Legal Existence
• Recognized form of worship and creed
• Definite and distinct ecclesiastical government
• Distinct religious history
• Formal code of doctrine and discipline
• Membership not associated with any other church or denomination
• Organization of ordained ministers
• Literature of its own
• Established place of worship
• Regular Congregations
• Regularly scheduled religious services
• Sunday schools for religious instruction of youth
• Schools for preparation of its ministers

it is important to be aware of the specific classification the IRS has allowed for your organization, as churches, exempt under subsection 170(b)(1)(A)(i) and religious organizations, exempt under 170(b)(1)(A)(vi) are subject to differing reporting requirements. Particularly important is timely compliance with regulations regarding the filing of an annual Form 990 as failure to do so may result in revocation of the organization’s tax exempt status.

About the Author:
A Master of Nonprofit Management, I am experienced in all aspects of nonprofit administration and mission-focused management- including grant writing, resource development, volunteer recruitment, and strategic planning. I’ve worked with nonprofit organizations to provide grant writing services and development assistance, and have provided evaluation and assessment of the quality and efficiency of volunteer service programs. Well versed in state and federal compliance, it is my goal to assist nonprofit executives in adopting good governance practices.