More on the IRS
IRS and the Tea Party
Let’s take our time and look at this IRS scandal once again. Basically, the IRS singled out groups that included “tea party” or “patriot” in their names for extra scrutiny. Does this make sense? If we can avoid hyperbole and exaggeration for just one second, why should a political organization apply for tax-exempt status from the IRS? Oh, and as we’re examining this, let’s remember that the TEA in tea party stands for Taxed Enough Already.
When we think about organizations that apply for tax-exempt status, what comes to mind? The Red Cross. United Way. Boys and Girls Club of America.
From the IRS:
If your organization is not organized for profit and will be operated only to promote social welfare to benefit the community, you should file Form 1024 to apply for recognition of exemption from federal income tax under section 501(c)(4). The discussion that follows describes the information you must provide when applying. For application procedures, see chapter 1.
To qualify for exemption under section 501(c)(4), the organization’s net earnings must be devoted only to charitable, educational, or recreational purposes. In addition, no part of the organization’s net earnings can inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual. If the organization provides an excess benefit to certain persons, an excise tax may be imposed. See Excise tax on excess benefit transactions , under Excess Benefit Transactions in chapter 5 for more information about this tax.
Examples. Types of organizations that are considered to be social welfare organizations are civic associations and volunteer fire companies.