Non-Profit Organization Question

[NEOhioChick]

What is the name of your state (only U.S. law)? Ohio

It seems like a simple question, but I want to be sure about this before our organization starts using incorrect wording in fliers and such.

Our organization is registered with the state of Ohio as a non-profit corporation. Can we use the designation of being a 501 non-profit since we have not yet registered with the IRS? I know that when you become a non-profit with the IRS they then give you the 501 c3 designation.

Or do we need to call the organization a charity until we get 501 c3 from the IRS?

Is there such a thing as a 501 only registered with the state?

Hope that makes sense and thank you!

 

[Zigner]

If you aren't in compliance with the code in question, then you can't say that you are.

 

[tranquility]

I'm not sure even saying you are a "charity" wouldn't cause problems. You might have some donors who get pretty upset if they donate with the goal of a tax deduction they can never take.

 

[NEOhioChick]

If you aren't in compliance with the code in question, then you can't say that you are.

That is what I was thinking. We had another member of the board who was saying that because we are registered with the state as a non profit corporation that we could use 501, I am guessing because he thinks that every non profit is automatically a 501 and then later you get the c(3) for the federal government.

 

[tranquility]

501 is the number of the IRS code section. Have him look it up and show you.

Hint:
"26 USC § 501"