Becky: The telephone number for the IRS non-profit section is 1(877) 829-5500. They are very friendly and helpful. Yes, I said friendly. I was very surprised to find the IRS was very willing to help us figure out the maze of non-profit, tax exempt status. There are several forms you will need to complete and they do want alot of info. but nothing that is too difficult and they are always willing to walk you through it. Give them a call I am sure someone will help you through this. Good Luck. By the way, it took 1 month from the time we sent in our completed forms to receive our status.
I don't think I was clear a couple messages back (as JHB - I'm elsewhere today and don't have my login with me).
The exemption from PAYING Texas sales tax is part that process of getting set up with the Office of the Comptroller. In Texas, you are a business, but specifically a non-profit business. Their web site is pretty informative and they have 1-800 numbers you can call with questions.
You might want to use the last section and just put in one two words from your org name with the zip code in case it wasn't entered EXACTLY the way you have it now.
Our school district (also in Texas) would not be able to let us use the school's number for liability reasons. They want the organizations kept separate (financially) since they don't have the right to completely control the funds and the processes.
Also, as I understand it, a donation to the school would not be tax deductible, but a donation to the PTO (registered as a 501(c)3 is deductible.
In the past we used the cities school #'s but we were told that if we used the number the city treasurer would have control over our funds to use as the city pleased so we had to break away. We have a tax ID number from the IRS but I am not sure if is also out tax exempt #, any accountants out there.
Just a thought...our Pto uses our school's tax exempt number. Because all Pto property and funds are basically considered school property...hope that helps:)
