Question: How long does it take to get 501(c)(3) status?

Hi! I'm working on a Form 1023 and incorporating our PTO in our state. The naysayers on our board say it will take at least a year to get 501(c)(3) status from the IRS. Is this true? It seems like months should be sufficient! We have won a grant from KaBOOM! to augment our playground, and need to raise $9000 in time to order playground equipment for a build on 5/5/12, so I'm hoping it's sooner than a year! By January 1st would work for me. Thanks!

Asked by horsestalktome

Answers:

Advice from PTO Today

Craig writes:
The process takes a couple of months for PTOs. A PTO filing is far less complicated than most others the IRS receives. In addition, 501(c)(3) status is retroactive, so people who donate after you incorporate (that's the date the IRS considers to be your start-up date) should be able to deduct their donations once you receive your letter of determination from the IRS.