how can i get a tax identification number in california for a non-profit organization and what do i need?

Question

we recently started a group at my school and we need the tax identification number so that our sponsors can deduct their donations from taxes. Can anybody help us by telling us how to obtain this number?

Answer 1

The irs website http://www.irs.gov/charities/index.html should have all the information you need to get your NPO started. You need more than a federal ID, you also MUST establish your tax exempt 501(c) (3) status for contributions to your org. to be tax deductible. You apply with the IRS and they send you a determination letter, you must have that to be tax exempt. You also need to check with your state laws. Many state laws are the same as federal laws but you need to check. Check IRS publication 557, Tax Exempt Status for Your Organization for more details as well.

Answer 2

You have to be an approved 501 3(c) if you want it to be tax deductible-- but you can probably piggy back that on your school 501 3 (c).

What you need/want is an EIN-- which you can issue online and get instantly. Google "EIN" or "Employer Identification Number">

Answer 3

You need to set up the non-profit first before you can get a tax number. If it's already set up, you should have received it. It's also called the EIN (employer identification number).

Here's set-up info if you need it:
http://www.1800net.com/nprc/howto.html