Political Campaign Activities-Risks to Tax-Exempt Status

National Council of Nonprofits

February 2017

            This article explores how nonprofits can get involved in politics if they remain nonpartisan, and do not endorse or oppose a candidate running for office. It starts off by explaining that nonprofits cannot participate in “political campaign activities” without losing their tax-exempt status. However, can participate in politics through voter registration and voter engagement activities, and lobbying, or legislative activities, while maintaining its tax-exempt status. The article then explains why lobbying is essential to nonprofit survival: lobbying prevents loss of nonprofit resources, sheds light on real issues in communities, and it expands access to important services. To learn more click here: https://www.councilofnonprofits.org/tools-resources/political-campaign-activities-risks-tax-exempt-status

 

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