Where’s My Application for Tax-Exempt Status?

The IRS receives more than 95,000 applications for tax-exempt status each year. We’ve provided the following guidelines for when you can expect to hear from IRS.

What happens after I submit my application?

After submitting your application for tax-exempt status, you will receive an acknowledgement notice, which means the IRS has received your application. If additional information is needed, the case will be assigned to an Exempt Organizations specialist who will contact you if necessary.

Has my application been assigned to a specialist?

Applications submitted after the postmark date in the chart below have not yet been assigned to an Exempt Organizations specialist. Keep checking this web page for updates and await IRS contact. 

There is no need to call.
Check to see if the IRS has begun processing your application:
https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/charitable-organizations/wheres-my-application-for-tax-exempt-status

How long does the IRS take to make a determination?

On average, the IRS can take anywhere from 6-9 months to make a 501c3 determination. Filing a 1023 EZ application has a much quicker review process for organizations that qualify. Depending on the seasonality, the 1023EZ is typically approved within 4-12 weeks. Not all organizations can qualify for the 1023. In our experience, it’s about 50/50 ratio of who qualifies. 

Once Approved, How can I find my organization on the IRS website?

You can search existing 501(C) organization on the IRS website here: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search

What else can I find using the IRS look-up feature?

You can also search for information about an organization’s tax-exempt status and filings including:

1. Checkout current status
2. Form 990 Series Returns
3. Form 990-N (e-Postcard)
4. Pub. 78 Data
5. Automatic Revocation of Exemption List
6. Determination Letters