How to apply for tax exempt status The term church is found, but not specifically defined, in the Internal Revenue Code. With the exception of the special rules for church audits, the use of the term church also includes conventions and associations of churches as well as integrated auxiliaries of a church. Certain characteristics are generally attributed to churches. These attributes of a church have been developed by the IRS and by court decisions. They include: Distinct legal existence Recognized creed and form of worship Definite and distinct ecclesiastical government Formal code of doctrine and discipline Distinct religious history Membership not associated with any other church or denomination Organization of ordained ministers Ordained ministers selected after completing prescribed courses of study Literature of its own Established places of worship Regular congregations Regular religious services Sunday schools for the religious instruction of the young Schools for the preparation of its members The IRS generally uses a combination of these characteristics, together with other facts and circumstances, to determine whether an organization is considered a church for federal tax purposes. Source: Publication 1828, Tax Guide for Churches and Religious Organizations.

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