For accounting periods starting on or after January 1, 2010, small California tax-exempt organizations are required to file an annual return with the Franchise Tax Board (FTB) by the 15th day of the 5th month after the close of the organization's tax year. Currently, tax-exempt organizations with annual gross receipts that are normally $50,000 or […]
Author: Michele Berger
An Introduction to the Nonprofit Sector
As a law student with a desire to help and work with nonprofit organizations, I began working as a legal assistant with the NEO Law Group last summer. While I still have much to learn about the legal issues facing nonprofits, thus far, I have been most intrigued by the sheer size, scope, and […]
Starting a Nonprofit: What is “Religious” under 501(c)(3)?
A “religious” purpose is one of the seven exempt purposes specified in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”). However, unlike with the terms “charitable,” “educational,” and “scientific,” the term “religious” is not defined in the Treasury Regulations, in large part due to constitutional issues. IRS guidance explains “[u]nder the First Amendment, the […]
Starting a Nonprofit: What is “Charitable” under 501(c)(3)?
A “charitable” purpose is one of the seven exempt purposes specified in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”). According to the Treasury Regulations, the term charitable is to be interpreted in its generally accepted legal sense and includes, but is not limited to: Relief of the poor, distressed or underprivileged; Advancement of […]
Starting a Nonprofit: What is “Scientific” under 501(c)(3)?
A “scientific” purpose is one of the seven exempt purposes specified in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (the “Code”). There is however little guidance about what qualifies as a scientific purpose. The Treasury Regulations refer to scientific by way of example, namely, the carrying on of scientific research in the public interest. This […]