To help cut down on calls asking about the status of applications, the IRS posts where they are in the general cycle on a website (based on date submitted.) So, for example, now they are working on applications submitted from early May.
Many exempt organizations and practitioners may have noticed an increase in the timeframe to process an application for tax-exempt status. We apologize for any delays you may be experiencing and we are taking steps to decrease processing time. This delay is the result of a backlog of exemption applications.
As a result of these delays, we are experiencing a high number of calls into our TE/GE Toll Free Customer Assistance telephone lines regarding the status of Exempt Organization (EO) exemption applications. These calls, in addition to our other calls, are causing increased wait times on the toll free line.
In an effort to provide better service, we will keep you updated on our progress in reducing the backlog of EO exemption applications by posting to this web page information about the date we received applications we are currently processing.
The Process: Upon receipt, exemption applications accompanied by the required
user fee
are initially separated into three groups: (1) those that can be processed immediately based on information submitted, (2) those that need minor additional information to be resolved, and (3) those that require additional development.
If your application falls in the first or second group, you will receive either your determination letter or a request for additional information, via phone, fax, or letter, within approximately 60 days of the date the application was submitted. If your application falls within the third group, you will be contacted once your application has been assigned to an EO specialist.
Click
here
for a chart illustrating the IRS process for exempt organizations determination letter requests.
Current Status of Applications Requiring Additional Development: Cases received as of May, 2008* are currently being assigned. Some types of applications must be assigned to specialized agents due to the issues involved, however, and may take longer. These applications are also assigned in order from the date they are received.
What You Can Do: If you submitted your application or determination letter request:
in or after the month indicated above, continue to check this web page for updates and wait for us to contact you. There is no need to call.
before the month indicated above and you have not been contacted by the IRS about your application, you may want to contact
TE/GE Customer Account Services
.
You will need the following information before you contact the IRS to verify the status of an application or determination letter request:
The name of the organization on whose behalf the request was submitted;
The organization's employer identification number (EIN);
The document locator number assigned to the request (if you have received one); and
A proper
power of attorney
submitted with the exemption application unless you are legally authorized to represent the organization, such as an officer or director.
