501(c)(3) Definition | Tax-Exemption for Qualifying Nonprofits

Accounting Definitions

Browse terms alphabetically

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

501(c)(3) Definition

Short Definition

Section 501(c)(3) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code allows some nonprofit organizations to be exempt from federal income taxes. It also makes donations made to the organization tax deductible.

Expanded Definition

501(c)(3) status is granted to organizations that operate exclusively for one of the following purposes: religious, charitable, scientific, testing for public safety, literary, educational, fostering nation or international amateur sports competition, or prevention of cruelty to children or animals. To receive 501(c)(3) status, an organization must apply using Form 1023. Once the organization is recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization, it will be exempt from federal income tax, federal unemployment tax, and sometimes state and local income taxes.

Related Blog Article

What is 501(c)(3) status?

Do Nonprofits Pay Payroll Taxes?

Get Started
See a demo

Want to check out the software before your free trial?

See a Demo
Get Started
Try it free

Sign up today for a free, no-obligation 30-day trial.

Try It Free for 30 Days