Hi,
Several families and myself have started a brand new homeschool group. Since we are new I am trying to do all the filings myself. I have already filed and been granted the non-profit corporation status for the state of Florida, acquired the EIN number and now I am trying to file for the 501( c)(3) status. Can you advise me on which forms I need to file to obtain the status? I have the 1023 form, but it looks like I need to file one of the schedules.
Thank you for your help.
Caroline H
Caroline,
You’re correct that IRS Form 1023 is the application for 501c3 tax exempt status.
Typically homeschool groups do not need to file any of the schedules for the Form 1023. A homeschool group might offer college scholarships and then they fill in Schedule H, but that’s it.
I do not recommend that most homeschool groups file Schedule B Schools, Colleges and Universities. Most homeschool groups do not fit the IRS definition of a school (regularly scheduled curriculum, faculty of qualified teachers, facilities, etc.)
If you wish, I can review your Form 1023 before you mail it to the IRS. I call it “Buying Peace of Mind.” 🙂
Your organization can save money by doing much of the work yourself. I have helped more than 25 homeschool organizations obtain tax exempt status and you can benefit from my experience. Cost: $50/hour for approximately 2 to 4 hours (approximate total cost $100-$200). Time: 1-2 weeks.
You might also benefit greatly from my book The IRS and Your Homeschool Organization available in paperback for $9.95 or e-reader format for $3.99
https://homeschoolcpa.com/bookstore/501c3-tax-exempt-status/
Carol Topp, CPA
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Hello Ms. Topp,
We, my wife and I are publishing a Street Paper, or were till we ran out of money. It seems we need 501 c 3 status before anyone will help us with donations. I have been trying to wade through the form 1023 and it is a bit overwhelming. I am hearing there will soon be a shorter 1023 EZ. Do you have any information as to when they will do so?
Thank You.
The IRS said they hoped to have the Form 1023-EZ available this summer. I do know that they have received a lot of feedback during their comment period and may need additional time to evaluate and change the form.
I will keep my eye on the progress of the Form 1023-EZ and post to my blog and email my mailing list when it is ready. You can sign up to be on my mailing list in the lower right corner of the homepage https://homeschoolcpa.com/
We are not organized as a social group – we meet to collectively educate our children. If not a school, what type of organization do we qualify under?
Most homeschool co-ops qualify for 501c3 tax exempt status as educational organizations (but not schools).
Carol Topp, CPA