As a thoughtful donor, you want to ensure that your contributions are going to legitimate organizations that make a real impact. Verifying a charity's IRS 501(c)(3) status is an essential step in your due diligence process. This page will guide you through the steps to verify the tax-exempt status of any charity, including Vision Wheels.
Understanding the nuances of charity verification not only safeguards your donation but also ensures that your charitable contributions qualify for tax-deductions. By following the steps outlined below, you will be well-equipped to confirm the legitimacy of any charity you wish to support.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Go to IRS TEOS
Visit the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. This tool allows you to check the tax-exempt status of charities by entering either their Employer Identification Number (EIN) or organization name.
Enter Organization Info
Input the charity's EIN or name into the search field and submit the query. This will help you locate the organization and its status with the IRS.
Check Status
Look for the status of the organization. It should show 'Currently Exempt' and indicate it falls under subsection 501(c)(3), confirming its eligibility for tax-deductible donations.
Verify Revocation
Ensure the revocation date is blank. Revoked organizations can no longer receive tax-deductible donations, and you want to avoid issues in case of an audit.
Check State AG Registration
Each state has its own registry for charitable organizations. Check the Georgia Secretary of State's website to confirm that Vision Wheels is registered to solicit charitable contributions in Georgia.
Keep Documentation
Save a printout or screenshot of the verification results along with your donation file. This documentation serves as proof of the charity's status in case any questions arise later.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Positive IRS Confirmation
A clear 'Currently Exempt' status on TEOS indicates that the charity has met IRS requirements for 501(c)(3) status, providing assurance for potential donors.
✓ Transparent Filing History
If you can find the charity's Form 990 filings or Schedule L on websites like ProPublica, it demonstrates transparency in their financial activities and commitment to accountability.
✓ Registered with State AG
A confirmation of registration with the Georgia Secretary of State assures you that the charity is compliant with state laws, reinforcing its legitimacy.
✓ Strong Third-Party Ratings
High ratings from third-party evaluators, like Charity Navigator, indicate a well-managed charity that uses donations effectively and ethically.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ Status Not 'Currently Exempt'
If the TEOS does not indicate 'Currently Exempt', this is a major red flag. It means the organization may not be eligible for tax-deductible donations, posing a risk to your charitable investment.
⚠ Revocation Date Present
If a revocation date appears, this indicates that the organization has lost its 501(c)(3) status. Donations made to such an organization may not be tax-deductible.
⚠ Lack of State Registration
If the charity is not registered with the Georgia Secretary of State, it may be operating illegally. Only registered charities can solicit donations legally in the state.
⚠ Negative Reviews
Check third-party reviews on platforms like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau. Multiple negative reviews can be a warning sign of mismanagement or unethical practices.
Tools + resources
- https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- https://charitynavigator.org
- https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- https://bbb.org/charity-reviews
- https://sos.ga.gov
- https://www.afpglobal.org
Georgia state-level oversight
In Georgia, it’s essential for donors to verify that their chosen charity is compliant with both federal and state regulations. The Georgia Secretary of State’s website maintains a registry of charitable organizations, ensuring that groups like Vision Wheels are legally permitted to solicit donations. Local resources, such as the Better Business Bureau, also provide valuable insights into a charity's reputation and practices to help you make informed decisions.