Obtaining 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Status

Obtain An Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is also known as a Federal Tax Identification Number. All nonprofit organizations must have an EIN, whether or not you have employees. It is also required of businesses and other entities.

Your bank will probably ask for your group's EIN when you open a checking account in the name of your organization. If your rescue group or animal shelter already has a bank account, someone from your organization may already have obtained an EIN number in the past.

Having an EIN number does not in any way indicate whether or not your organization is exempt from taxes. All manner of groups, whether for-profit or nonprofit, with employees or without, may have an EIN number. If you are ever asked to send proof of your tax-exempt status in the future, do not send your Employer Identification Number!

The IRS makes it as easy as possible to obtain your EIN. You can obtain one by toll-free phone service, fax, mail, or online. The IRS online instructions and IS Form SS-4 can be found here.

If you have misplaced your EIN, the IRS or your bank may be able to help you track it down. Click here for the IRS page on misplaced EINs.

Once you have your Employer Identification Number, Step One is complete!