Bruce,
> I'd just like to get clarification on this...
>
> Does the IRS (not the legal system) view voluntary organizations the
> same as they view non-profits? Will people donating to voluntary orgs
> receive the same tax benefits as someone donating to a 501(c)3?
>From my prior experience setting up nonprofits in New Hampshire, I
recall that NO, people do NOT receive any benefits. There is a
difference between a "nonprofit" and a 501(c)(3). But you first
have to establish a nonprofit entity... and then you can start the
process of getting IRS approval.
As I mentioned at a meeting, the New Hampshire Charitable Fund in
Concord (Pleasant Street, I believe) is an excellent resource for
this. Several years ago, I got a packet they had that was all
about starting a nonprofit in NH. It went through all the Articles
of Incorporation and Bylaws issues... as well as things about taxes
and grants and such. I'd suggest someone go by and see if they
still have the packets.
FYI, organizations like the NHCF will also sometimes set up
accounts on behalf of nonprofits like us so that funds can
be deposited with a tax exemption... using their 501(c)(3) to
help us... typically they will do it for only a limited time
however (to help the org while it applies for IRS status).
That's what I remember.
Regards,
Dan
--
Dan York, Linuxcare, Inc.
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