Question: How can my application for tax-exempt status be expedited?
Answer: In general, applications are processed in the order received by the IRS. Sometimes, however, the IRS will work a case outside the regular order. For expedited processing to be granted, however, there must be a compelling reason to process the case ahead of others. Compelling reasons include the following:
-
A pending grant, where failure to secure the grant will have an adverse impact on the organization’s ability to continue operating.
-
A newly created organization providing disaster relief to victims of emergencies.
-
IRS errors have caused undue delays in issuing a determination letter.
For a pending grant, the following specific information would help support a request for expedited processing:
-
The name of the person or organization committed to giving the grant or asset,
-
The amount of the grant or the value of the asset,
-
The date the grant will be forfeited or permanently redirected to another organization,
-
The impact on the organization’s operations if it does not receive the grant/asset, and
-
The signature of a principal officer or authorized representative.
A request for expedited processing must be made in writing and must fully explain the compelling reason. Granting expedited processing is at the discretion of the IRS.
Note: An optional expedited process is available for certain 501(c)(4) applicants.
Additional information – Examples
- Qualifying for expedited treatment
- Not qualifying for expedited treatment
- Where to send request