How to Get a Copy of My 501c3 Letter
For many organizations, obtaining a copy of their 501c3 letter is a crucial step in verifying their tax-exempt status. This letter, issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), confirms that the organization meets the criteria set forth by the IRS to be classified as a tax-exempt entity. If you are in need of a copy of your 501c3 letter, here are some steps you can follow to obtain it.
1. Check Your Records
The first place to look for your 501c3 letter is within your organization’s files. If you have been in operation for a while, it is likely that you have a copy of this letter. Review your records, including any correspondence with the IRS, to see if you can find it.
2. Contact the IRS
If you cannot locate your 501c3 letter within your organization’s files, you can request a copy from the IRS. To do so, you will need to fill out Form 4506, Request for Copy of Tax Return or Transcript. This form can be obtained from the IRS website or by calling their toll-free number at 1-800-829-1040.
3. Provide Identification Information
When requesting a copy of your 501c3 letter, you will need to provide identification information to verify your identity. This may include your name, address, employer identification number (EIN), and any other relevant information that the IRS may require.
4. Mail or Fax the Request
Once you have completed Form 4506, you can either mail or fax the form to the IRS. The mailing address for Form 4506 is as follows:
Internal Revenue Service
Cincinnati, OH 45999-0046
For fax requests, you can use the following number:
1-855-669-5725
5. Wait for the Response
After submitting your request, you can expect to receive your 501c3 letter within 30 days. However, this timeline may vary depending on the volume of requests the IRS is processing at the time.
6. Alternative Methods
In addition to the above steps, there are alternative methods to obtain a copy of your 501c3 letter. You can:
- Visit the IRS website and use the “Get Transcript” tool to download a copy of your tax return, which will include your 501c3 letter.
- Request a copy of your organization’s annual return (Form 990) from the IRS, which will also include your 501c3 letter.
Obtaining a copy of your 501c3 letter is an important task for your organization. By following these steps, you can ensure that you have the necessary documentation to verify your tax-exempt status and continue operating smoothly.
