We considering including advertising in our conference brochure. Can we consider this conference (exhibitor) income? Or is it UBI (Unrelated Business Income)?We are also considering placing advertising in our magazine (and our website). Is this UBI? And how do we track it? And how do we report it? And what percent taxes would we pay on it?Dorothy in OR
Dear Dorothy,
Advertising revenue is definitely Unrelated Business Income (UBIT) in the eyes of the IRS, because selling ads is not related to your tax exempt purpose (education), but you can avoid paying taxes on the unrelated business income in several ways.
The IRS offers several exceptions to UBI Tax (UBIT):
- A $1,000 threshold allows that the first $1,000 in income from an unrelated business will not be taxed.
- If the fundraiser (or unrelated business) is run substantially by volunteer efforts (i.e., no paid staff) then the proceeds are not taxed.
- If the fundraiser is not regularly carried on, such as a once-a-year spaghetti supper, then the proceeds are not subject to UBIT.
- If you are selling donated items, like in a garage sale, the income raised is not taxed.
I think #1 or #2 will apply to your group, so can get income from advertising without worrying about paying tax on it.
It’s a good idea to create a line item in your record keeping labeled “Advertising Income” so it’s clearly differentiated from other income.
Carol Topp, CPA