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Question: Hello!

I started a grassroots non-profit environmental group while in college. I registered my organization as Eco-Rooted, but have failed to keep up with paper work and fees- especially since we weren't making any money. I want to continue as a 501 c3 purely for the non-profit status so the public knows our intentions.

What is the best way to go about checking my organizations current status?

Also, If I didn't want to apply for non-profit status to avoid the paperwork and fees that come along with it, what is my next best option to keep this organization legitimate and recognizable by the state?

Thanks!
Answer: Hi Tim, Thank you for your question. First, to check the status of your non-profit, you can go to the IRS website here and determine the status of your organization. This should tell you if your 501(c)(3) is still valid or not. Otherwise, you may have to contact the IRS directly to find out this information. Have you looked at local or state directories of organizations focused on environmental concerns, and attempted to have your organization added to these directories? Also, have you determined other local or state groups that may be similar to yours that you could partner with in order to still be able to receive donations, but without having to duplicate efforts or have an independent organization. It may be easier to reestablish yourself as a 501(c)(3) than it would be to join another organization. And it may also be more beneficial to you because of the difficulties in establishing a non-profit organization in the first place. Good luck! We hope this has been helpful. Please let us know if you have any further questions.
Question Date: Wed, 01/22/2014