Internal Revenue Code section 501(c)(3) describes a subset of nonprofits: those organized and operated exclusively for religious, charitable, scientific, testing-for-public safety, literary, or educational purposes, or to foster national or international amateur sports competition, or for the prevention of cruelty to children or animals.
Status as a 501(c)(3) organization confers many advantages, not the least of which are exemption from federal income tax and the ability to receive tax-deductible contributions. In most cases, nonprofit organizations must apply to the IRS to be recognized as exempt under section 501(c)(3). Learn which organizations are eligible to apply, how to apply, and what to expect after applying.