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Part 7. Rulings and Agreements

Chapter 20. Exempt Organizations Determination Letter Program

Section 4. Automatic Revocation and Other Special Determination Issues

7.20.4 Automatic Revocation and Other Special Determination Issues

Manual Transmittal

May 07, 2026

Purpose

(1) This transmits revised IRM 7.20.4, Exempt Organizations Determination Letter Program, Automatic Revocation and Other Special Issues.

Material Changes

(1) Editorial changes throughout: corrected references; updated links and terms; and revised to conform with plain language standards.

(2) Updated procedures, modifying the guidance as listed below:

Section Modification
IRM 7.20.4.1.3, Roles and Responsibilities Added more details regarding the roles and responsibilities.
IRM 7.20.4.1.4 , Program Management and Review Added new section to comply with the internal control requirements of IRM 1.11.2.2.4, Address Management and Internal Controls
IRM 7.20.4.1.6, Terms and Acronyms Changed the title from Common Abbreviations to Terms and Acronyms and updated the chart
IRM 7.20.4.1.7, Related Resources Changed the title from Other References to Related Resources and added more details
IRM 7.20.4.2(8), Automatic Revocation Incorporated TEGE-07-0225-0002, Revenue Procedure 2025-5 Case Processing Updates, which explains that an automatically revoked private foundation must use IRC 507(b)(1)(B) termination procedures to be classified as a public charity
IRM 7.20.4.2.1(6), Determining Automatic Revocation Status and Effective Date Provided instructions for identifying organizations that were revoked through an EO Examination project
IRM 7.20.4.2.1(8), Determining Automatic Revocation Status and Effective Date Incorporated TEGE-07-0425-0005, Appeal Rights Expansion, regarding IRC 9100 relief requests and provided processing instructions if an organization submits their application for exemption more than 27 months after their formation, but checks the box saying they filed within 27 months
IRM 7.20.4.2.1(11), Determining Automatic Revocation Status and Effective Date Added a chart showing the steps to take when approving a case and denying relief under Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3
IRM 7.20.4.2.2(11), Reinstatement Effective Date and Other Case Processing Added "No Gap" processing chart
IRM 7.20.4.7, Subordinates Leaving a Group Ruling for Individual Exemption Updated chart to include all required fields
IRM 7.20.4.8.1, Processing Form 8976 Instructs the individual processing Form 8976 to check the names and addresses of individuals and organizations listed in the request against the online Sanctions List
Exhibit 7.20.4-1 , Preparing Form 5666 Added instructions for preparing Form 5666

Effect on Other Documents

This IRM supersedes IRM 7.20.4 dated December 05, 2024. This revision incorporates the following Interim Guidance (IG) Memoranda:
TEGE-07-0225-0002, Revenue Procedure 2025-5 Case Processing Updates, issued February 19, 2025
TEGE-07-0425-0005, Appeal Rights Expansion, issued April 14, 2025

Audience

Tax Exempt and Government Entities
Exempt Organizations

Effective Date

(05-07-2026)

Stephen A. Martin
Director, Exempt Organizations, Rulings and Agreements
Tax Exempt and Government Entities

7.20.4.1 (05-07-2026)

Program Scope and Objectives

  1. Purpose: This manual describes procedures for special issues Exempt Organizations Determinations (EOD) employees encounter when processing determination letter requests and Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4), which is not a determination letter request. Special issues are issues or processes that may not apply to every case. They require procedures unique to that issue or process. Topics in this manual include:

    • Automatic revocation

    • Applications from foreign organizations

    • Optional expedited process for qualifying IRC 501(c)(4) applicants

    • Subordinate organizations (in group rulings) seeking individual rulings

    • Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4)

  2. Processing time frames outlined in the other related IRMs, see IRM 7.20.4.1.7, Related Resources, also apply to the procedures in this IRM (unless specifically stated otherwise).

  3. Audience: The procedures in this manual apply to all Exempt Organizations (EO) employees processing determination requests and Form 8976.

  4. Policy Owner: Director, Exempt Organizations

  5. Program Owner: Director, Exempt Organizations, Rulings and Agreements

  6. Primary Stakeholders: Exempt Organizations, Rulings and Agreements

7.20.4.1.1 (05-07-2026)

Background

  1. EO includes two primary operational areas: Rulings and Agreements and Examinations.

  2. EO Rulings and Agreements (R&A) issues determination letters on exempt status, foundation classification, and other determinations related to exempt organizations. EO R&A also reviews and processes Form 8976.

  3. Organizations submit applications for recognition of tax-exempt status either electronically through Pay.gov when required (such as, Forms 1023, 1023-EZ, 1024, 1024-A, and 8940) or through the Cincinnati Accounts Management Campus Support (Campus Support) for all other requests. Form 8976 is submitted electronically through Pay.gov.

  4. Cases are generally processed electronically in Exempt Status Application Management (ESAM). Prior to ESAM, cases were processed electronically in MEDS. See IRM 7.22.4 , Modified EP-EO Determination System (MEDS) User Manual, for specific instructions on using MEDS, including how to process cases.

  5. Campus Support sends open hard copy case files to an IRS facility in Ogden, UT.

7.20.4.1.2 (05-07-2026)

Authority

  1. Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually, sets forth procedures for issuing determination letters on issues under the jurisdiction of the Director, EO Rulings and Agreements. It explains the procedures for issuing determination letters on tax-exempt status in response to applications for recognition of exemption from federal income tax under IRC 501 or IRC 521 (other than those subject to Rev. Proc. 2026-4, updated annually), private foundation status, and other determinations related to tax-exempt organizations. Rev. Proc. 2026-5 also provides guidance on the exhaustion of administrative remedies for purposes of declaratory judgment under IRC 7428 and guidance on applicable user fees for requesting determination letters.

  2. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 created IRC 506 requiring an organization described in IRC 501(c)(4) to notify the Secretary no later than 60 days after the organization is organized that it is operating as an IRC 501(c)(4) organization. The requirement to submit the notification applies to organizations that are described in IRC 501(c)(4) and organized after December 18, 2015, and to certain IRC 501(c)(4) organizations existing on that date. Additionally, Rev. Proc. 2016-41 sets forth procedures for IRC 501(c)(4) organizations submitting the notification required by IRC 506.

7.20.4.1.3 (05-07-2026)

Roles and Responsibilities

  1. The Director of EO R&A is responsible for issuing determination letters on exempt status, private foundation status, and other determinations related to tax-exempt organizations.

  2. EO R&A is the office within Exempt Organizations and Government Entities (EO/GE) that is primarily responsible for up-front, customer-initiated activities such as determination letter requests, taxpayer assistance, and assistance to other EO/GE offices.

  3. EO R&A includes EO Determinations and EO Determinations Quality Assurance (EODQA).

7.20.4.1.4 (05-07-2026)

Program Management and Review

  1. EO R&A manages the program through:

    • A monthly functional review and report to the Director of EO/GE; and

    • Quarterly quality reports prepared by EODQA.

7.20.4.1.5 (05-07-2026)

Program Controls

  1. EODQA reviews determination cases to ensure:

    1. Technical accuracy

    2. Adherence to written procedures

    3. Uniform and impartial treatment of exempt organizations' interests while protecting the government's interest

    4. Uniform application of the statutes, tax treaties, regulations, court opinions, or guidance published in the Internal Revenue Bulletin, and

    5. Identification of unfavorable case patterns, trends affecting processing quality, problem areas, unique issues, and new or novel techniques that EOD specialists develop

7.20.4.1.6 (05-07-2026)

Terms and Acronyms

  1. Commonly used terms and acronyms include:

    Terms and Acronyms Name
    Activity Record The location in ESAM where actions taken are documented, also known as the CCR
    ATC Anti-Terrorism Coordinator
    CCR Case Chronology Record, known as the Activity Record in ESAM
    Dummy Module A dummy module is created in IDRS in order to record case control information when the tax module is not present. The dummy module will be replaced by the true tax module when a generated TC 902 finds a match on Master File.
    EDS EP/EO Determination System
    EIN Employer Identification Number
    EO Exempt Organizations
    EOD Exempt Organizations Determinations
    EODQA Exempt Organizations Determinations Quality Assurance
    EO/GE Exempt Organizations Government Entities
    ESAM Exempt Status Application Management
    FYM Fiscal Year Month
    FTE Failure to Establish
    IDRS Integrated Data Retrieval System
    IRC Internal Revenue Code
    LINUS Letter Information Network and User Fee System
    R&A Rulings & Agreements
    MEDS Modified EO-EP Determination System, also known as TEDS, which was replaced by ESAM
    TEOS Tax Exempt Organization Search
7.20.4.1.7 (05-07-2026)

Related Resources

  1. The procedures in this manual supplement case processing procedures described in:

    • IRM 7.20.1, Exempt Organizations Determination Letter Overview

    • IRM 7.20.2, Determination Letter Processing of Exempt Organizations

    • IRM 7.20.3, Processing Foundation Classification and Miscellaneous Requests

    • IRM 7.20.5, Review Procedures for EO Determinations

    • IRM 7.20.6, Anti-Terrorism and Emerging Issues

    • IRM 7.20.9, Processing Form 1023-EZ

    • IRM 7.21.2, Processing User Fees

    • IRM 7.21.5, Determination Case Processing Assistance

    • IRM 7.21.10, Processing EO Correspondence Requests

    • IRM 7.22.1, Determination Letter Automation Systems Overview

    • IRM 7.28.4, Public Inspection of Written Determinations Under IRC 6440

    • IRM 25.1.1, Fraud Handbook

7.20.4.2 (05-07-2026)

Automatic Revocation

  1. The Pension Protection Act of 2006:

    • Introduced an annual notice filing requirement for small tax-exempt organizations previously not required to file annual returns, the Form 990-N (e-Postcard) (see IRC 6033(i)).

    • Includes a provision that automatically revokes an organization’s tax-exempt status when it fails to file a required annual return or notice for three consecutive years effective for taxable years beginning after 2006 (see IRC 6033(j)).

  2. An organization that is required to file a Form 990-series annual return or notice and fails to do so for three consecutive years has its tax-exempt status automatically revoked whether or not it was previously recognized as tax exempt. The IRS mails Notice CP 120A, Revocation Notice for Failure to File An Annual Information Return for 3 Years, to an automatically revoked organization’s last known address to notify it of its loss of tax-exempt status.

    Reminder:

    Some organizations are excepted from filing a Form 990-series return or notice. See IRC 6033, Treas. Reg 1.6033-2(g), Treas. Reg. 1.6033-2(h), Treas. Reg. 1.6033-6, and Rev. Proc. 83-23 supplemented by Rev. Proc. 95-48 and Rev. Proc. 96-10. However, an organization that claims exception from filing but isn't on record with the IRS as having established this exception (such as via a determination letter or otherwise) may be included on the Automatic Revocation of Exemption List.

    Reminder:

    Submission of Form 8976 does not satisfy Form 990-series filing requirements.

  3. An organization’s automatic revocation date is the due date of the third consecutive return or notice that isn't filed (15th day of the fifth month after the end of the third fiscal year). The earliest possible automatic revocation date is May 15, 2010.

  4. The IRS maintains a list of automatically revoked organizations on its website, Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS). TEOS lists the automatic revocation date, the date of posting to TEOS, and the date of any reinstatement for each automatically revoked organization.

  5. Automatically revoked organizations are in Status 97 on IDRS.

  6. An automatically revoked organization may be subject to federal income tax as of its revocation date. In addition, donations to organizations previously eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions are no longer tax-deductible to donors as of the date the IRS posted its name on the Auto-Revocation list on TEOS.

    Note:

    Taxpayers may make tax-deductible contributions to an eligible organization whose tax-exempt status is subsequently reinstated as of the effective date of reinstatement.

  7. Organizations that had their tax-exempt status automatically revoked can request to have their tax-exempt status reinstated using procedures in Rev. Proc. 2014-11. To request reinstatement of tax-exempt status, an organization must submit:

    • The appropriate application form (Form 1023, 1023-EZ, 1024, or 1024-A);

    • All required supplemental information; and

    • The appropriate user fee.

  8. If a private foundation is automatically revoked and files either a Form 1023 or a Form 1023-EZ for reinstatement, they must be reinstated as a private foundation. To be described as a public charity, they must terminate their private foundation classification through IRC 507(b)(1)(B) procedures. See IRM 7.20.3.3.2, Private Foundation Terminations under IRC 507(b)(1)(B).

    Exception:

    If a private foundation is automatically revoked and indicates on their Form 1023 that they were erroneously classified as a private foundation, request all information necessary, including financial information, to determine whether they meet the applicable public support requirements since inception. As necessary, also ask for a statement affirming the organization met the public support test from inception, including years outside the most recent five years.

  9. Automatically revoked organizations that weren’t private foundations can request reinstatement under a different subsection when they reapply for exemption. See IRM 7.20.2.2.1, Effective Date of Exemption, for more information.

    Exception:

    Private foundations must terminate private foundation status before they can be recognized under a different subsection. See section 3.01 of Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually.

7.20.4.2.1 (05-07-2026)

Determining Automatic Revocation Status and Effective Date

  1. Conduct or obtain IDRS research on all cases to determine whether an organization is currently automatically revoked or actions need to be taken to prevent an erroneous automatic revocation. Research IDRS command code BMFOLO and BMFOLI. If BMFOLI shows that Form 990s were filed, you must also research BMFOLT.

    Note:

    Use BMFOLT to confirm whether a return was filed timely (including filed extensions). It may not be needed for every organization.

  2. Import the IDRS research into the Non-Disclosable folder and document actions in the Activity Record.

  3. Review IDRS research and information in the case file to determine if the organization is correctly in Status 97 based on:

    • Its date of formation

      Note:

      If an organization has changed its legal form after it was (or should be) automatically revoked, follow the procedures in this section and IRM 7.20.4.2.2, Reinstatement Effective Date and Other Case Processing.

    • Its fiscal year month

      Note:

      Generally, the revocation date is not impacted by a change in Fiscal Year Month (FYM) which occurred after exemption was granted. If the organization claims revocation is based on incorrect FYM, consider erroneous revocation procedures in IRM 7.20.4.2.7, Erroneous Revocations.

    • Prior case processing information (such as ruling and effective date)

    • Whether returns were filed

      Reminder:

      An organization’s filing of a return (for any one of the three years in question) by the return due date of the third year (including filed extensions) meets the filing requirement for those years to avoid automatic revocation.

  4. If an organization is in Status 97, conduct Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) research. Import research into the Non-Disclosable folder and document actions in the Activity Record.

    Example:

    Conducted and imported TEOS research.

  5. If an organization is in Status 97, but IDRS research shows that a Form 990 was filed timely, it may not be an erroneous revocation. An organization may be placed in Status 97 by EO Examination if an organization files Form 990-N when their gross receipts exceeded $50,000. To determine if an organization was placed in Status 97 by EO Exam, review BMFOLT. If BMFOLT includes TRANS Code 424 and SPC 8294, it is not an erroneous revocation. If a Form 990 was filed timely and these codes aren’t present, process as an erroneous revocation (see IRM 7.20.4.2.7, Erroneous Revocations).

  6. In general, don’t push an organization to Status 97 if BMFOLO shows that they’re in good standing (Status 01).

  7. In general, if an organization didn’t file for recognition of exemption within 27 months of formation, do not push to Status 97. Also, if the organization checks the box that they formed within 27 months of the application date, but they didn’t, and they’re not in Status 97, you must contact the organization and let them know they must (in writing) either agree to submission date or they must explain:

    • Why they didn’t file within 27 months of formation,

    • How they acted reasonably and in good faith, and

    • How granting an earlier effective date will not prejudice the interests of the government.

      Reminder:

      See the EO R&A Job Aids SharePoint site for the full list of pre-written questions.

    Note:

    If you’re granting exemption from submission date, send an email to the EO Correspondence Unit to have a TC 590 input when the case is ready to be closed. The subject line of the email will be "NON AR TC 590." The body of the email must include the organization’s name, Employer Identification Number (EIN), Effective date, and Fiscal Year Month (FYM). See IRM 7.20.2.2.1, Effective Date of Exemption. Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.

    Note:

    If the EIN establishment date on BMFOLO is any tax period before the effective date, email the Correspondence Unit with the organization’s name, EIN, effective date, taxable year end (calendar or fiscal year month), formation date, and EDS case number with the subject line "Non-AR TC 590" to request a Non-AR TC 590 at case closing to prevent an erroneous automatic revocation (see IRM 7.20.4.2.8, Old EIN Establishment Date). Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder

    .

  8. Request additional information if the organization’s date of formation and/or fiscal year month are unclear or unknown.

  9. Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually, provides that relief available to IRC 501(c)(3), (9), (17), or (29) under Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3 won’t be granted in the following situations:

    1. If granting relief would result in the organization's exemption being automatically revoked under IRC 6033(j)(1) effective before the date of application.

    2. If the period of limitation on assessment under IRC 6501(a) for any taxable year for which the organization claims exemption has expired prior to the date of application. The statute is generally three years.

    3. If the organization is not required to apply for recognition of tax-exempt status in order to be tax-exempt.

    Note:

    Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually, provides that Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3 relief doesn't apply to an organization that isn't required to apply for recognition of exempt status in order to be tax-exempt, and R&A won't consider requests for relief from such an organization.

    Caution:

    Relief under Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3 only applies to organizations seeking recognition of exemption under IRC Section 501(c)(3), (9), (17), and (29). It doesn’t apply to other subsections.

  10. If you’re approving the case, but denying relief under Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3 because one of the three situations described above in (9) applies:

    Steps First Then
    Step 1. Get manager concurrence Email manager for concurrence of the denial of the relief request. Include in the email the reason relief shouldn’t be granted and IDRS research, as needed.

    Note:

    If the manager determines relief may be granted, process the case as usual.

    		 Document manager concurrence/non-concurrence in the Activity Record.
    Step 2. Call the organization If the case would otherwise be a merit closure, call the organization. If the telephone number provided isn’t valid, or there’s no way to leave a message, attempt to locate another number.

    • If you still are unable to reach the taxpayer, send Letter 1312 asking for the name and daytime telephone number for an authorized individual to discuss their request for 9100 relief.

    		 When you call, explain:

    • Why they don’t qualify for relief;

    • Any harm (or lack of harm) to the organization if they accept submission date as the effective date;

    • The adverse determination process, including appeal rights

    • Alternatively, if they accept the submission date (in writing), no adverse action is necessary. You will not prepare Letter 6392 if they agree to submission date as the effective date.

      Note:

      Document all that was discussed during the call in the Activity Record.
      If the case needs development (other than for the 9100 issue), call the organization following the process described above before you prepare Letter 1312.

    • If you call and they verbally agree to the submission date as the effective date, add an attestation to the Letter 1312.

    • If you call but are unable to reach the taxpayer, add a paragraph to Letter 1312 asking for the name and daytime telephone number for an authorized individual to discuss their request for 9100 relief.

      Note:

      You are still required to make a telephone call two weeks before the response due date (See IRM 7.20.2.3.5(1), Response Received or Due (and Extensions)).

      Note:

      Follow FTE procedures ( IRM 7.20.2.5.6, Failure To Establish (FTE)) if no response to Letter 1312 is received.
      If a partial response is received to Letter 1312

    • If you’ve received a response to Letter 1312 that doesn’t include the attestation, call the organization to request a complete response. If the organization agrees, grant up to 14 days to submit a complete response. If a complete response is received, continue with case closing as described in Step 3.

      Note:

      If a complete response is still not received, but all other issues in Letter 1312 have been resolved, continue with case closing as described in Step 3.
    Step 3. Prepare the case for closing If you’ve either contacted or attempted to contact the organization and either they haven’t responded to your call within 3 business days, or they wish to proceed with their request for 9100 relief and they don’t qualify

    • Prepare the appropriate approval letter (for example, Letter 947) and Letter 6392, 9100 Effective date, with the appropriate selectable paragraph.

    • The effective date of exemption on the approval letter will be the application submission date (or later, if appropriate, under IRM 7.20.2.2.1, Effective Date of Exemption).

    • Import the final letters (for example, Letter 947 and 6392) into the Non-Disclosable folder.

      Note:

      Do not date the letters.
      For all requests for 9100 relief

    • Prepare a Form 14261, Memo to File, to document whether or not relief was granted and why; and

    • Select all applicable case categories (for example, 9100 Relief – Not granted (not required to apply)).
      Input TC590, if appropriate, to prevent the organization from being erroneously revoked.  
      Add the mandatory review indicator. See the Specialist’s Desk Guide for information on how to send cases for mandatory review.  
      Prepare the case for closing. See IRM 7.20.2.5, Case Closing.  

    Reminder:

    Only prepare Letter 6392 if the organization doesn't agree to the submission date as the effective date.

  11. If none of the three situations described above apply, determine if the Treas. Reg. 301.9100-3 requirements are met by considering whether the organization acted reasonably and in good faith, and if granting an earlier effective date won’t prejudice the interests of the government.

  12. Determine whether automatic revocation is correct.

    If the organization Then
    Re-formed as a new organization since it was originally created See IRM 7.20.4.2.5, New Organization
    Is correctly revoked and is in Status 97 on IDRS Review TEOS to ensure the organization’s automatic revocation date is listed and correct.

    1. If the revocation date on TEOS is correct, see IRM 7.20.4.2.2, Reinstatement Effective Date and Other Case Processing.

    2. If the revocation date on TEOS is later than the correct revocation date, see IRM 7.20.4.2.6, Tax Exempt Organization Search Corrections.

    3. If the revocation date on TEOS is prior to the correct revocation date, see IRM 7.20.4.2.7, Erroneous Revocations.

      Reminder:

      Import TEOS research into Non-Disclosable folder.
    Is subject to automatic revocation on or after the application date but before issuance of a favorable determination letter (“no gap”)

    Note:

    Generally, we do not push organizations to 97, but we do in this instance.

    		 Review IDRS and if an appropriate return has not been filed (or a filing extension requested), follow the relevant “no gap” information in IRM 7.20.4.2.2, Reinstatement Effective Date and Other Case Processing, and IRM 7.20.4.2.3, Closing Automatic Revocation Cases. Update the organization to Status 97. Email the EO Correspondence Unit:

    • Subject: Update to Status 97

    • Organization name

    • Employer Identification Number (EIN)

    • Subsection requested

    • Date of formation

    • Fiscal year month

    • Proposed revocation date

    Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.

    Note:

    If the proposed revocation date is incorrect, the Correspondence Unit will send you an email with the correct date (typically within 48 hours).
    May have been erroneously revoked, including errors related to prior incorrect case processing See IRM 7.20.4.2.7, Erroneous Revocations.
    Shouldn’t be automatically revoked and the EIN Establishment Date is a tax year prior to the effective date See IRM 7.20.4.2.8, Old EIN Establishment Date. When the case is ready to be closed, email the EO Correspondence Unit:

    • Subject: NON AR TC 590

    • Organization’s name

    • EIN

    • Effective date

    • FYM

    Reminder:

    Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.
    Submitted its application within three months of the due date of its third year required return, it will be automatically revoked if it doesn't file a return by that date, and it otherwise qualifies for exemption Notify the organization of its filing responsibility to avoid pending automatic revocation. Call the organization or, if sending a Letter 1312 include the information in the letter. Explain if it files a return for any of the 3 most recent tax years before the due date of the third year return, then they won’t be automatically revoked. Before closing the case:

    1. If closing the application after the filing due date of the third year, conduct or obtain IDRS research to determine if an appropriate return has been filed.

    2. If an appropriate return has been filed, follow non-auto revocation case processing procedures.

      Note:

      If you are unsuccessful at contacting the applicant before case closing, discuss adding an addendum to the final letter with your manager.
7.20.4.2.2 (05-07-2026)

Reinstatement Effective Date and Other Case Processing

  1. Determine the appropriate reinstatement effective date following the procedures listed in Rev. Proc. 2014-11. Tax-exempt status may be reinstated under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 4, 5, 6, or 7.

  2. If the organization submits Form 990 Schedule B as its financial data required for the reinstatement process or otherwise references the Form 990 for its financial information:

    1. Call or write to the organization to explain Form 990 isn't considered part of the application package, but if used, it’s available for public inspection.

    2. Include a concise summary of any phone conversation in the ESAM Activity Record documenting whether the organization agreed to use the Form 990 as its financial data.

    3. Send a letter to the organization requesting written confirmation if unable to contact by phone or if the organization doesn’t want to disclose Schedule B.

  3. Follow the chart below to determine under which section of Rev. Proc. 2014-11 the organization qualifies for reinstatement.

    Steps Question Action
    Step 1 Is the automatic revocation date after the submission date of the application? Yes. Consider whether "no gap" procedures apply (see paragraph (8) for "no gap" requirements and effective date information). If "no gap" procedures don't apply, the effective date of exemption is the automatic revocation date if the organization otherwise qualifies for exemption as of that date.


    No. Go to Step 2.
    Step 2 Did the organization request reinstatement as of the application’s submission date? Yes. See paragraph (7) for Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 7 requirements.


    No. Go to Step 3.
    Step 3 Did the organization apply no later than 15 months after the later of the date:

    • Of the automatic revocation letter or

    • The date on which the IRS posted its name on the Auto-Revocation List under Revocation Posting Date (Tax Exempt Organization Search)?

    		 Yes. Go to Step 4.


    No. See paragraph (6) for Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 6 requirements.
    Step 4 Was the organization eligible to file either a Form 990-EZ or Form 990-N for each of the three consecutive years that it failed to file? Yes. See paragraph (4) for Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 4 requirements.


    No. See paragraph (5) for Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 5 requirements.

    Note:

    See your manager with any questions about "reasonable cause."

  4. The organization meets the requirements for retroactive reinstatement under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 4, if:

    • It was eligible to file either Form 990-EZ or Form 990-N for each of the three consecutive years that it failed to file;

    • It didn’t previously have its tax exemption revoked per IRC 6033(j);

    • It submitted its application for reinstatement and user fee within 15 months from the later of the date of the automatic revocation letter or the date the IRS posted its name on the auto-revocation list on TEOS; and

    • The organization’s failure to file was not intentional and it has put in place procedures to file in the future.

      Note:

      An organization indicates it’s applying for Section 4 streamlined retroactive reinstatement by checking a box on the electronic application. Application forms provide for an organization to attest that it has met the applicable requirements.

  5. The organization meets the requirements for retroactive reinstatement under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 5, if it:

    • Isn’t eligible to apply under Section 4;

    • Submits the appropriate application and user fee for reinstatement within 15 months from the later of the date of the automatic revocation letter or the date the IRS posted its name on the auto-revocation list on TEOS; and

    • Includes a reasonable cause statement (described in Section 8.01 of Rev. Proc. 2014-11) sufficient to establish reasonable cause for failing to file a required annual return or notice for at least one of the three consecutive years in which it failed to file.

      Note:

      An organization indicates it’s applying for Section 5 retroactive reinstatement by checking a box on the electronic application. Application forms provide for an organization to attest that it has met the applicable requirements.

  6. The organization meets the requirements for retroactive reinstatement under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 6, if it:

    • Submitted its application for reinstatement and user fee more than 15 months from the later of the date of the automatic revocation letter or the date the IRS posted its name on the auto-revocation list on TEOS; and

    • Includes a reasonable cause statement (described in Section 8.02 of Rev. Proc. 2014-11) sufficient to establish reasonable cause for failing to file a required annual return or notice for each of the three years in which it failed to file.

      Note:

      An organization indicates it’s applying for Section 6 retroactive reinstatement by checking a box on the electronic application. Application forms provide for an organization to attest that it has met the applicable requirements.

  7. Submission date will be granted under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 7, if they check the appropriate box on the application and include the appropriate user fee.

  8. Process the organization’s application as a "no gap" reinstatement if it:

    1. Submits the appropriate application before the due date of its third required return (based on its formation date);

    2. Isn’t approved before the due date of the third return (based on its formation date); and

    3. Has not filed appropriate returns to prevent automatic revocation.

      Note:

      Determine a "no gap" reinstatement’s effective date using standard processing procedures rather than automatic revocation procedures. See IRM 7.20.4.2.3, Closing Automatic Revocation Cases, "No Gap."

  9. Determine the effective date of exemption as follows:

    If the organization Then
    Is in Status 97 Determine the appropriate reinstatement effective date following the procedures listed in Rev. Proc. 2014-11. See IRM 7.20.4.2.2.

    Note:

    If IDRS research shows that an organization was erroneously revoked then follow the procedures in IRM 7.20.4.2.7.
    Submitted application within 27 months from the end of the month in which it was organized Use the formation date as the effective date of exemption and year of deductibility.
    Submitted application more than 27 months from the end of the month in which it was organized, not in Status 97, and did not request an earlier effective date than the submission date Use the submission date as the effective date of exemption and year of deductibility.
    Is applying for exemption under IRC 501(c)(3), (9), (17), or (29) more than 27 months from the end of the month in which it was organized, is not in Status 97, and requested an earlier effective date than the submission date Determine the appropriate effective date following the procedures listed in Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually. See IRM 7.20.2.2.1 and IRM 7.20.4.2.1(5)
    Is applying for exemption under a subsection other than IRC 501(c)(3), (9), (17), or (29) and submitted its application more than 27 months from the end of the month in which it was organized Use the submission date as the effective date of exemption and year of deductibility. See section 6.09(2) of Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually. If the organization requests an effective date earlier than the submission date and doesn't agree to the submission date as the effective date, process the case as an approval of exemption with an adverse issue. See IRM 7.20.2.4, Adverse Determinations.

  10. When closing a case with a request for 9100 relief:

    1. Select the appropriate case category:

      • 9100 Relief - Approved (requires manager concurrence)

      • 9100 Relief - Not granted (relief would result in Auto Rev)

      • 9100 Relief - Not granted (period of limitation expired)

      • 9100 Relief - Not granted (not required to apply)

      • 9100 Relief - Not granted (other)

    2. Prepare a Memo to File documenting whether relief was granted and why.

    3. Ensure that a TC590 is input, if appropriate, to prevent the organization from being erroneously revoked.

    4. If an organization becomes subject to automatic revocation under IRC 6033(j) on or after the application date but before issuance of a favorable determination letter, process it as a "no-gap" case and push to Status 97. See the chart in IRM 7.20.4.2.3(2), Closing Automatic Revocation Cases, to determine appropriate effective date.

  11. When to consider "no gap" procedures versus 9100 relief procedures:

    If the application is submitted Then
    More than 27 months after formation and they requested an effective date prior to submission date Consider 9100 relief and determine if they qualify for relief. Process as either an approval or denial of relief, depending on the facts and circumstances.
    More than 27 months after formation and they requested submission date as the effective date Continue processing using the submission date as the effective date.

    Within 27 months of formation; and

    • Became subject to automatic revocation after submission of their application and before issuance of a favorable determination letter; and

    • Submitted the application before the due date of the third required return (based on formation date); and

    • Hasn’t filed appropriate returns to prevent automatic revocation

    		 Process using the "no gap" procedures described in IRM 7.20.4.2.3(2), Closing Automatic Revocation Cases.
7.20.4.2.3 (05-07-2026)

Closing Automatic Revocation Cases

  1. Follow case closing procedures in IRM 7.20.2 except as otherwise specified.

  2. Enter the appropriate effective date and include the required selective paragraphs on the determination letter. Enter the appropriate effective date and deductibility date into the system following the chart below:

    Qualifies for Effective date on letter Effective date Deductibility year (if applicable)
    Retroactive Reinstatement Revocation date Revocation date Original deductibility year on IDRS (or revocation year if not listed on IDRS)
    Submission date reinstatement Submission date Submission date Submission year
    New subsection in addition to retroactive reinstatement under previous subsection Generally submission date (use selective paragraphs for prior subsection reinstatement from revocation date) Revocation date Original deductibility (if original and current subsection deductible) or submission date (if original subsection not deductible, or no year listed on IDRS)
    No gap Effective date as determined without regard to automatic revocation Revocation date Year of effective date on letter

  3. Include a selective paragraph or addendum specifying the revenue procedure under which reinstatement is granted on all reinstatement case determination letters.

  4. Use other automatic revocation selectable paragraphs, as necessary.

  5. For automatic revocation cases, send an encrypted email to the EO Correspondence Unit to have a TC 590 posted once the case is ready to be closed. The subject will read "AR TC 590" . The body of the email must include ALL of the following:

    • Organization's name

    • Employer Identification Number (EIN)

    • Fiscal Year Month (FYM)

      Note:

      The Correspondence Unit will respond with the date you can close the case. Hold the case until that date and then close it

      Reminder:

      Document all actions taken in the Activity Record and import all case-related emails into the Non-Disclosable folder.

  6. If the organization was a parent or a subordinate in a group exemption, you must remove the group exemption number from the EO Submodule. For instructions, see IRM 7.20.4.7, Subordinates Leaving a Group Ruling for Individual Exemption.

  7. If an organization didn’t respond to a request for additional information, follow failure to establish (FTE) or incomplete response denial procedures in IRM 7.20.2. Close FTE cases for automatically revoked organizations in Status 12.

7.20.4.2.4 (05-07-2026)

Group Ruling Subordinates

  1. If a subordinate’s tax-exempt status is revoked for failure to file for three years, the subordinate must apply for individual exemption to have its tax-exempt status reinstated.

  2. A subordinate can’t have its tax-exempt status reinstated through the group ruling holder (parent organization) by adding it back onto the group exemption roster. The IRS won’t add currently revoked subordinates to a GEN.

  3. Process subordinate reinstatement requests using the procedures for automatic revocation and IRM 7.20.4.7, Subordinates Leaving a Group Ruling for Individual Exemption.

  4. Subordinates of a group ruling whose parent organization’s individual exemption is automatically revoked must apply for individual exemption (or join another group exemption). IDRS updates a subordinate who was in good standing but whose parent is automatically revoked to Status 27. These applications aren’t processed as reinstatement cases. Follow standard case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.4.7, Subordinates Leaving a Group Ruling for Individual Exemption.

7.20.4.2.5 (05-07-2026)

New Organization

  1. A tax-exempt organization that changes its form or place of organization (for example, a trust incorporates) may need to submit a new application for exemption.

    Note:

    Generally, if a Section 501(c) exempt domestic business entity (classified as a corporation) restructures (for example, unincorporated association to corporation or reincorporation in a different state), the surviving organization isn’t required to file a new exemption application if the surviving organization is a domestic business entity (classified as a corporation) and is carrying out the same purposes as the exempt organization that restructured. See Rev. Proc. 2026-5, updated annually, and Rev. Proc. 2018-15 for specific new application requirements.

    1. The effective date of exemption for the new organization is generally the formation date of the new organization if it timely filed the application and otherwise meets requirements for exemption.

    2. If a new organization is formed (for example, a trust incorporates), the new organization is required to obtain a new EIN. An organization is generally not required to obtain a new EIN for any other changes in form or place of organization (for example, an association incorporates or a corporation reincorporates in a different state). (IRM 7.20.2.2.2, Employer Identification Numbers). See IRC 6109, Publication 1635, and Rev. Proc. 2018-15.

      Note:

      Multiple active entities can’t share an EIN.

7.20.4.2.6 (05-07-2026)

Tax Exempt Organization Search Corrections

  1. If an organization is in Status 97 and the revocation date on TEOS is later than the correct revocation date, send an encrypted email to the EO Correspondence Unit with the following information:

    • Subject line: Revocation Date Correction

    • Organization name

    • EIN

    • Revocation date listed on Tax Exempt Organization Search

    • Correct revocation date

    • Formation date

    • Fiscal year end

    • Subsection

  2. Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.

  3. Continue processing as an automatic revocation case. Don’t close the case until the Correspondence Unit responds.

7.20.4.2.7 (05-07-2026)

Erroneous Revocations

  1. An organization could be automatically revoked in error or prematurely for a number of reasons, including:

    • The organization’s EIN establishment date on IDRS is before the tax year of the organization’s date of formation.

    • The organization had a determination letter indicating it wasn’t required to file annual returns but IDRS was incorrectly coded.

    • A prior application for exemption was incorrectly processed.

    • The organization was affiliated with a governmental entity as described in Rev. Proc. 95-48.

      Note:

      An organization that meets a filing exception under Rev. Proc. 95-48 may, but isn't required to notify the IRS that it meets the requirements (Rev. Proc. 95-48, Section 5.02). Therefore, the system could "erroneously" revoke the exemption. If the organization can show that it met the requirements of Rev. Proc. 95-48 during the period for which it was revoked, treat the revocation as erroneous. In this situation, refund any user fee that was paid.

    • TC 590s weren’t appropriately entered when closing a prior case.

    Note:

    EO Determinations considers an incorrect automatic revocation that was due to IRS error as an erroneous revocation for processing purposes.

  2. Items that may identify an organization as erroneously revoked include:

    • Revocation within one year of ruling date

    • Second revocations

    • Organization indicates it was erroneously revoked

  3. Secure your manager’s concurrence when you determine erroneous revocation due to IRS error.

  4. If the revocation is erroneous, send an encrypted email to the EO Correspondence Unit with the following:

    • Subject line: Erroneous Revocation

    • Organization name

    • EIN

    • Formation date

    • Fiscal year month

    • Revocation date

    • Explanation of why the revocation is erroneous

    • Statement whether the case is closed as Status 12 with a user fee refund or if it is being processed for exemption

  5. Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.

  6. The chart below describes the special processing procedures that apply to an erroneous revocation.

    If the erroneously revoked organization Then
    Requested reinstatement under the same subsection shown in IDRS prior to the erroneous revocation

    1. Contact the organization to tell them:

      • The revocation was erroneous and to ignore Notice CP 120A (if received),

      • Their name will be removed from the TEOS Auto-Revocation list, and

      • We’ll refund their user fee.

    2. Prepare superseding determination letter if original determination letter is wrong.

    3. Refund the user fee.

    4. Have a TC 590 input once the case is ready to be closed if it appears the organization may be automatically revoked again.

    5. Close the case Status 12.
    Wasn’t exempt before the erroneous revocation

    1. Contact the organization to tell them:

      • Their revocation was erroneous and to ignore CP120A (if received) and

      • Their name will be removed from the TEOS Auto-Revocation list.

    2. Follow standard case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.
    Requested a change in subsection

    1. Contact the organization to tell them:

      • About the erroneous revocation and to ignore Notice CP 120A (if received) and

      • Their name will be removed from the TEOS Auto-Revocation list.

    2. Follow standard case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.
    Wasn’t erroneously revoked (but claimed it was)

    1. Contact the organization to explain why their revocation wasn’t erroneous.

    2. Follow standard automatic revocation case processing procedures.
7.20.4.2.8 (05-07-2026)

Old EIN Establishment Date

  1. Currently, IRS systems use an organization’s EIN establishment date rather than its formation date to determine when to automatically revoke an organization's exempt status. See the chart below for specific guidance.

    If Then
    The organization’s EIN establishment date is before the beginning of the fiscal year of the organization’s effective date and the organization isn't currently revoked Once the case is ready to be closed, send an encrypted email to the EO Correspondence Unit with the subject line "NON AR TC 590." Include ALL of the following in the body of the email:

    • Organization’s name

    • EIN

    • Effective date

    • Fiscal Year Month

    Note:

    This prevents the organization from being revoked prematurely.

    Reminder:

    Import a copy of the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.
    The organization was prematurely revoked based on its EIN establishment date Follow procedures under IRM 7.20.4.2.7, Erroneous Revocations.
    The organization’s EIN establishment date is on or after the same fiscal year of the organization’s effective date Follow standard case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.
7.20.4.2.9 (05-07-2026)

Valid Subsequent Automatic Revocations

  1. An organization that was automatically revoked more than once isn't eligible for reinstatement under Rev. Proc. 2014-11, Section 4, but may be reinstated under the procedures in other sections. Items that may identify an organization that was or should be automatically revoked more than once include:

    • A prior reinstatement approval case on EDS

    • BMFOLO lists 97 as the current status and the current status date is after 2014-06

    • Tax Exempt Organization Search lists old revocation, revocation posting, and reinstatement dates

  2. The IRS isn't systematically updating TEOS to reflect multiple automatic revocations. To manually update TEOS, send an encrypted email to the EO Correspondence Unit with the following:

    • Subject line: Add to TEOS

    • Organization name

    • EIN

    • Formation date

    • The most recent revocation date

    • A statement confirming that the organization was correctly revoked a second time

  3. Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder. Close the case following the IRM 7.20.4.2.3, Closing Automatic Revocation Cases, procedures.

7.20.4.3 (05-07-2026)

Exempt Religious or Apostolic Associations under 501(d)

  1. An organization requesting exemption recognition under IRC 501(d) as a religious or apostolic association or corporation is required to submit Form 1024 with Schedule L and the appropriate user fee.

    Note:

    These cases are established as subsection 40 on EDS.

  2. Follow case processing procedures described in IRM 7.20.2 except as indicated here. If exemption is recognized, prepare Letter 5051, Determination Letter for Exempt Religious and Apostolic Association under 501(d).

  3. A religious or apostolic association or corporation must file a Form 1065 tax return. On the closing information tab, select "1" in the 1065 field to establish the 1065 filing requirement.

7.20.4.4 (05-07-2026)

Farmers’ Cooperatives Case Processing

  1. An organization requesting exemption recognition under IRC 521 as a farmers' cooperative is required to submit Form 1024 or Form 1028, and the appropriate user fee.

    Note:

    These cases are established as subsection 80 on EDS, and entity type is 3 for cooperatives.

  2. Follow case processing procedures described in IRM 7.20.2 except as indicated here. If exemption is recognized, prepare Letter 949, Determination for Farmers Cooperative Exempt under Section 521.

    Note:

    For adverse cases, remove references to IRC Section 501(a) in Letters 4034 and 4038.

  3. A farmers’ cooperative must file income tax returns on Form 1120-C. Enter "20" in the 1120 field to establish the 1120-C filing requirement.

7.20.4.5 (05-07-2026)

Foreign Organizations

  1. An organization formed under foreign law may qualify as an exempt organization under IRC 501(a), if it meets exemption requirements. However, certain subparagraphs of IRC 501(c) only apply to domestic entities or allow for organizations formed in U.S. territories (see chart below).

    Subsection Applies only to
    IRC 501(c)(10) Domestic organizations
    IRC 501(c)(19) Organizations organized in the U.S. or its territories
    IRC 501(c)(21) and
    IRC 501(c)(22)    		 Trusts created or organized in the U.S.
    IRC 501(c)(26) and
    IRC 501(c)(27)    		 Qualified state-sponsored organizations

  2. A domestic organization (association, corporation, or partnership) is created or organized in the U.S. or under the law of the U.S., or of any state (unless otherwise provided by regulation). (IRC 7701(a)(4))

  3. The term "foreign" when applied to a corporation or partnership is a corporation or partnership which is not domestic. (IRC 7701(a)(5))

    Caution:

    A domestic corporation that registers as a "foreign" corporation in a state other than its state of incorporation is not a foreign organization for purposes of these procedures.

  4. A trust is generally treated as domestic under the Code if a U.S. court is able to exercise primary supervision over the administration of the trust and one or more U.S. persons have authority to control all substantial decisions of the trust (IRC 7701(a)(30)(E)). However, a trust created or organized in or under the law of the U.S., any state, the District of Columbia, or any possession of the U.S. is treated as domestic for purposes of IRC 170 and Chapter 42 (including IRC 4948(b)). (IRC 170(c)(2)(A))

  5. An organization formed in a U.S. territory is considered a foreign organization because IRC 7701(a)(9) defines the U.S. as including only the 50 states and the District of Columbia. U.S. territories include Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, American Samoa, and the Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands. To approve an organization formed in a U.S. territory, use the correct closing letter as indicated in IRM 7.20.4.5.2, Case Closing.

  6. An organization organized on a U.S. military base or embassy abroad may be domestic (see Rev. Rul. 68-521).

  7. A domestic organization formed by foreign persons (corporations, trusts, or individuals) and operated outside of the U.S. isn't a foreign organization. See Bilingual Montessori School of Paris v. Commissioner, 75 T.C. 480 (1980).

7.20.4.5.1 (05-07-2026)

Case Development and Processing

  1. When processing an application from a foreign organization, make sure the application for recognition of exemption includes:

    • Where the organization was formed or created and why it’s seeking U.S. tax exemption.

    • English translations of information/documents written in a foreign language.

    • All financial data in U.S. dollars.

  2. In general, foreign organizations are subject to automatic revocation of exemption for failure to file annual returns for three consecutive years, similar to domestic organizations.

    1. If a foreign organization files an application to be recognized as exempt only from the submission date of application, follow standard case processing procedures.

    2. If a foreign organization applies for exemption within 27 months of its formation date, recognize exemption as of the formation date (if it otherwise qualifies for exemption).

    3. Foreign organizations and organizations located in U.S. possessions, whose gross receipts from sources within the U.S. are normally $50,000 or less and which didn’t engage in significant activity in the U.S. (other than investment activity), if they claim U.S. tax exemption or are recognized by the IRS as tax exempt, are generally required to submit Form 990-N if they choose not to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. Request that a NON AR TC 590 is input at case closing to prevent the organization being placed on the auto-revocation list.

  3. Foreign organization approvals (not including those formed in U.S. territories) are subject to mandatory review. See IRM 7.20.5.2.1, Cases Subject to Mandatory Review.

7.20.4.5.1.1 (05-07-2026)
Qualification under Section 501(c)(3)

  1. A foreign organization that applies for recognition of exemption must meet the same organizational and operational tests as a domestic organization. If an organization doesn't want to amend its organizing document to satisfy the organizational test under IRC 501(c)(3), discuss IRC 501(c)(4) status with the organization (as contributions to foreign organizations generally aren’t deductible under IRC 170(c)(2)(A)).

    Note:

    Generally, contributions to foreign organizations aren’t deductible unless the country where the organization is formed has a tax treaty with the U.S. that provides for deductibility of contributions to organizations formed in the other country that is a party to the treaty.

    Note:

    Contributions to organizations organized in any possession of the United States are deductible under IRC 170(c)(2)(A).

    Caution:

    To meet the organizational test, an amendment to a foreign organization’s formation document must be filed in the foreign country in which it was originally formed.

  2. A foreign school must comply with Rev. Proc. 75-50, as modified by Rev. Proc. 2019-22.

    Exception:

    If a foreign school demonstrates that it can’t collect the information required under Rev. Proc. 75-50 because collecting it is illegal under foreign law or impractical under the circumstances and it submits proof, the IRS may waive parts of Rev. Proc. 75-50. However, the school must adopt an internal racial non-discriminatory policy meeting the language requirements of Rev. Proc. 75-50, as modified by Rev. Proc. 2019-22, and operate in a nondiscriminatory manner as to students.

  3. A foreign organization must satisfy the notice requirement under IRC 508(a) within the time period established by the regulations under that section unless it:

    • Meets one of the exceptions in Treas. Reg. 1.508-1(a)(3).

    • Receives 15 percent or less of its support (other than gross investment income) from U.S. persons from its creation date (IRC 4948(b)).

  4. If a foreign private foundation receives 15 percent or less of its support from U.S. sources from its creation date, it’s excepted from IRC 508(e) governing instrument provision requirements (IRC 4948(b)).

    Note:

    For purposes of IRC 4948, a foreign organization is one that is not created or organized in the U.S. or a U.S. territory.

  5. A foreign private foundation is subject to a 4% excise tax on net investment income derived from sources within the U.S., per IRC 4948(a), instead of the standard 1.39% under IRC 4940.

  6. Contributions to charitable organizations formed in U.S. territories are deductible by donors (IRC 170(c)(2)(A)).

  7. Contributions to foreign organizations, other than to organizations created or organized in U.S. territories, aren’t deductible by donors unless the organization is located in a country that has a tax treaty with the U.S. providing for deductibility of contributions. For additional information on the deductibility of contributions to foreign organizations, see Pub 597, Information on the United States-Canada Income Tax Treaty, and Pub 526, Charitable Contributions.

  8. For consideration of deductibility of contributions, an organization (other than a Canadian organization) must state which treaty governs deductibility of contributions to it. If the application doesn’t have this statement, contributions to the organization won't be tax deductible, and the organization won't have protest or declaratory judgment rights on the issue.

    1. If the claim covered by a treaty is questionable, develop the issue by sending an information request letter and/or a discussing it with the organization before issuing a determination letter.

    2. Find the complete text of all the tax treaties on the U.S. Department of the Treasury website.

7.20.4.5.1.1.1 (05-07-2026)
Processing Canadian Charities

  1. A Canadian charity registered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) is automatically recognized as tax exempt under the United States-Canada Income Tax Convention (Treaty). Canadian charities are presumed to be private foundations.

    Note:

    Find guidance on the treatment of Canadian charities seeking recognition of tax-exempt status in the U.S. in Notice 99-47, Guidance Relating to Article XXI of the United States-Canada Income Tax Convention.

  2. Donors can deduct contributions (within limitations) to Canadian charities under treaty provisions.

  3. An initial ruling on foundation status and listing on TEOS is submitted on Form 8940 and doesn’t require a user fee. It is established as an "A" case.

    Note:

    To be recognized as tax-exempt, an automatically revoked Canadian charity must complete and submit a Form 1023 and user fee under IRC 6033(j)(2), which is established as an "I" case.

  4. For a request to be listed as a Section 501(c)(3) organization on TEOS and/or a request for classification as a public charity, rather than a private foundation, a Canadian charity must provide:

    1. A letter stating the organization's request (listing as a Section 501(c)(3) organization on TEOS or classification as a public charity);

    2. A copy of their Notification of Registration from the CRA;

      Note:

      Registered Canadian charities are listed on CRA’s website. If the organization doesn’t submit its Notice of Registration but is listed on CRA’s website, print the relevant page of the website and place it in the Non-Disclosable folder.

    3. Form 8833, Treaty-Based Return Position Disclosure Under Section 6114 or 7701(b), or a separate statement indicating that the charity is claiming exemption pursuant to Article XXI of the Treaty;

    4. Their legal name, complete mailing address, and EIN;

    5. The month their fiscal year ends;

    6. Their date of formation;

    7. A contact name and telephone number;

    8. The public charity status they are requesting (if applicable) and information demonstrating how it meets the requirements of that status;

    9. Penalty of perjury statement; and

    10. Signature of an officer, director, trustee, or other authorized person.

  5. Process the foundation classification issue as usual. If they don’t submit sufficient information to establish the requested foundation classification, develop the issue following case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.

  6. When approving a Canadian organization as a public charity, prepare Letter 5048, Determination Letter for Foreign Organizations 501(c)(3) Public Charity. If the organization is a private foundation, Prepare Letter 5049, Determination Letter for Foreign Organizations 501(c)(3) Private Foundation, using the selectable paragraphs applicable to Canadian organizations.

    Reminder:

    Foreign organizations, including Canadian charities, are subject to mandatory review. See IRM 7.20.5.2.1, Cases Subject to Mandatory Review.

7.20.4.5.1.2 (05-07-2026)
Processing United States Virgin Islands (USVI) Organizations

  1. When processing applications for exemption from organizations formed in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI), follow standard case processing procedures.

    Note:

    An organization formed in the USVI can complete Form 8821, Tax Information Authorization, with its exemption application if it wants copies of tax information, notices, or other written communications, sent to the USVI Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR).

7.20.4.5.2 (05-07-2026)

Case Closing

  1. In addition to any closing procedures specified above, follow standard case closing procedures (see IRM 7.20.2, Determination Letter Processing of Exempt Organizations) with the following exceptions noted in this section.

  2. If approving the determination request for recognition of exemption of a foreign organization, including those formed in U.S. territories, prepare:

    Letter Number Letter Name
    Letter 5048 Determination Letter for Foreign Organizations 501(c)(3) Public Charity
    Letter 5049 Determination Letter for Foreign Organizations Section 501(c)(3) Private Foundation
    Letter 5050 Determination Letter for Foreign Organizations Non-501(c)(3)

    Note:

    When preparing an approval letter for a foreign organization, use the customer service number on the letter and leave the fax line blank.

  3. Enter Form 990, Form 990-PF, and Form 990-T filing requirements similar to those applicable to domestic organizations. For circumstances where a foreign organization may be eligible to file Form 990-N, see Rev. Proc. 2011-15.

    Note:

    If an organization is receiving submission date as the effective date of exemption and has an old EIN, isn't automatically revoked, and has Form 990 filing requirements, send a Non-AR TC 590 email to the EO Correspondence Unit and have a TC 590 input when the case is ready to be closed. Import the email into the Non-Disclosable folder.

  4. For organizations with employees, enter the following employment tax filing requirements:

    Organization formed in: 941 requirement (Non (c)(3) only) 940 requirement
    Puerto Rico 07 7
    U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, or American Samoa 06 1
    Any other U.S. territory 01 1
    Foreign country (non U.S. territory) with U.S. based employees or employees who are U.S. residents 01 1

  5. If contributions to a foreign organization are deductible by donors under a tax treaty (for example, Canada), enter a deductibility code of "4."

  6. If the organization doesn’t qualify for exemption, follow the adverse case closing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.4, Adverse Determinations.

  7. If closing a case as failure to establish (FTE):

    1. Prepare Letter 1314, EO Determination Request Closed - Failure to Establish, using the appropriate selective paragraph.

    2. Enter closing Status 11 if the case involves a U.S. territory and Status 12 for other foreign organizations.

      Exception:

      For a FTE reinstatement case, close the case Status 12.

    3. Input the appropriate Form 1120 or Form 1041 filing requirements only if the organization has U.S. income.

  8. Foreign organizations (not including those formed in U.S. territories) are subject to mandatory review. See IRM 7.20.5.2.1, Cases Subject to Mandatory Review.

7.20.4.6 (05-07-2026)

Optional Expedited Process for IRC 501(c)(4) Applicants

  1. EO Rulings and Agreements has a process to expedite certain exemption applications under IRC 501(c)(4). This process applies to applications for IRC 501(c)(4) exemption that show:

    • The organization could potentially be engaged in political campaign intervention (PCI) or providing private benefit to a political party (referred to as "political issues" ) to an extent that can’t be determined and

    • Doesn't otherwise present any tax-exempt qualification issues.

    Note:

    This process applies only if there are possible political issues and a favorable determination cannot yet be issued based on the facts and circumstances currently contained in the application.

  2. This process lets an organization make representations to the IRS on its past, current, and future activities and receive a determination letter based on those representations.

  3. An organization attests to these representations in Letter 5228, Applicant Notification of Expedited 501(c)(4) Option.

    Caution:

    Only send Letter 5228 if we do not have enough information to make a determination. Accordingly, if the applicant does not respond to Letter 5228, a Letter 1312 is required to obtain additional information needed to make the determination.

7.20.4.6.1 (05-02-2023)

Optional Expedited Case Processing

  1. Review the case to ensure the application:

    1. Is complete.

    2. Contains no indication of inurement.

    3. Contains no other potential issues (other than potential political issues).

    Reminder:

    Follow case processing time frames in IRM 7.20.2 unless specifically noted.

  2. Process the application according to the situations described below:

    If Then
    You approve the application (including one with potential political issues) without development Issue Letter 948 and follow the procedures in IRM 7.20.2.5, Case Closing.
    The application presents inurement issues

    • Discuss a potential adverse position with your manager.

    • Develop the case using case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2.4, Adverse Determinations.
    The application presents issues other than potential political issues

    • Request additional information for the other issues using Letter 1312, Request for Additional Information. If the organization’s response doesn't resolve those issues, discuss a potential adverse position with your manager.

    • If the organization sends a response that resolves the other issues for example, non-political issues) and you approve the application without further development, issue Letter 948 and follow the procedures in IRM 7.20.2.5, Case Closing. If potential political issues present an obstacle to a favorable determination, refer to the next option in this table.
    Potential political issues are the only obstacle to a favorable determination, and you can’t determine whether the applicant is primarily engaged in PCI activities (or providing private benefit to a political party) Prepare Letter 5228, Applicant Notification of Expedited 501(c)(4) Option with a 28 day response due date.
    The organization signs and returns the representations on Letter 5228

    • Prepare Letter 948-E, Determination Letter for Organizations Eligible Under the Optional Expedite Process.

    • Prepare the case for closing per IRM 7.20.2.5, Case Closing.

      Note:

      The case does not need to go to mandatory review if they signed and returned Letter 5228. See IRM 7.20.5.2.1, Cases Subject to Mandatory Review.
    The organization doesn't respond to Letter 5228 or states it doesn't want to sign the representations Develop the case per case processing procedures in IRM 7.20.2. Do not close the case as an approval if the organization does not respond to Letter 5228. Issuing Letter 5228 means that we do not have enough information to make a determination.

    Exception:

    You must submit all additional information request letters on these cases (after Letter 5228) for manager review before mailing.

    Reminder:

    The case must be sent to mandatory review for potential PCI if they did not sign Letter 5228. See IRM 7.20.5.2.1, Cases Subject to Mandatory Review.
7.20.4.7 (05-07-2026)

Subordinates Leaving a Group Ruling for Individual Exemption

  1. To establish their own individual exemption, a subordinate organization must submit the appropriate form (for example, Form 1023) and the appropriate user fee.

    Note:

    A subordinate organization that is automatically revoked must submit an application for reinstatement of their own individual tax-exempt status before they can rejoin a group ruling (if desired).

  2. The organization must meet all organizational and operational requirements of the requested subsection. When processing the application for individual exemption:

    1. Verify the organization is (or was) covered under a group ruling.

    2. Review for automatic revocation issues (see IRM 7.20.4.2, Automatic Revocation).

    3. Determine the effective date of the individual exemption (if not automatically revoked).

    If Then the effective date of individual exemption (listed on the determination letter) is
    The parent organization notified the subordinate that it’s no longer covered under the group exemption The notification date that the subordinate was no longer covered under the group exemption (or other date specified in the notification), unless otherwise provided under IRC 508(a).
    The subordinate chose to withdraw from coverage under a group exemption and notifies the parent organization The date the subordinate notified the parent organization (or other date specified by the subordinate), unless otherwise provided under section 508(a).
    The subordinate hasn’t sent or received notification to or from the parent organization prior to submitting its application for exemption The date the subordinate notifies the parent organization or the date it specifies in the notice.

    Note:

    The subordinate can notify the parent organization during the application process. In the notice, the subordinate may want to specify the submission date of application as the date of its withdrawal from the parent organization.

    Note:

    See Situation 3 of Rev. Rul. 90-100 for IRC 508(a) and former group exemption subordinates.

  3. In addition to standard closing procedures:

    1. Add the appropriate selective paragraph(s) and/or addenda to the determination letter.

    2. For an organization that isn’t automatically revoked, enter the effective date of exemption as the formation date or the date the organization was included in the group ruling, whichever is later. Enter the ruling date as the date the determination letter is issued to the individual organization.

      Caution:

      The effective date of exemption on the determination letter will be different than the effective date entered in the system’s closing data.

    3. To remove the GEN from the organization’s EO submodule, go to the Group Exemption Number box in ESAM under Additional Codes, select the drop down for 9999 - Clear Existing Value.

7.20.4.8 (05-07-2026)

Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4)

  1. The Protecting Americans from Tax Hikes (PATH) Act of 2015 created IRC 506 requiring an organization described in IRC 501(c)(4) to notify the Secretary no later than 60 days after the organization is organized that it is operating as a 501(c)(4) organization. The requirement to submit the notification applies to:

    • Organizations described in IRC 501(c)(4) and organized after December 18, 2015.

    • Certain IRC 501(c)(4) organizations existing on that date.

  2. The Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under Section 501(c)(4), and corresponding fee must be submitted electronically through Pay.gov.

    Note:

    Providing notice isn’t a request for a determination of exempt status.

7.20.4.8.1 (05-07-2026)

Processing Form 8976

  1. Review electronically submitted Form 8976 notifications in submission date order.

    Note:

    Paper submissions won’t be accepted.

    1. Ensure all required fields have been completed. The fields include the organization's name, address, Employer Identification Number (EIN), date of organization, state of organization, statement of purpose that they will operate as either a social welfare organization/civic leave or as a local association of employees, and the month their annual accounting period ends.

      Note:

      Since the electronic form requires that all fields are complete before it can be submitted, elevate to your manager if they aren't complete and submit an IRWorks ticket to report the issue.

    2. An organization shouldn’t submit more than one Form 8976. If an organization attempts to submit more than one Form 8976, only the first Form 8976 will be accepted for processing. The organization will be notified of the non-acceptance of any subsequent form and any user fee that was paid in connection with a subsequent form will be returned or refunded.

    3. Take the following actions:

      Action Then Or
      Check the name and address of the organization against the online Sanctions List Search If a match is found, complete Form 14503, Potential Terrorism Connection Checksheet, and email it to the EO Anti-Terrorism Coordinator (ATC). Continue processing the request.

      Note:

      See IRM 7.20.6, Anti-Terrorism and Other Emerging Issues, for more information.

      		 If no match is found, continue processing.
      Verify the correct user fee was paid If the correct user fee was paid, continue processing. If an insufficient user fee was paid, reject using Letter 5823.

    4. Conduct IDRS research using the command code BMFOLO.

    5. See the Form 8976 Case Closing Sheet for detailed instructions.

  2. Use this chart if there are EIN issues:

    If the EIN on the Application Then
    Doesn’t show up on BMFOLO but shows up on ENMOD Continue with case processing. If acknowledging the notice hold the case until the EIN rolls from ENMOD to BMFOLO. Document the Activity Record to explain ENMOD hold times.
    Is incorrect and you determine the correct EIN based on IDRS research Correct the EIN in case management system. Document the Activity Record and continue case processing.

    Note:

    Ensure correct EIN is used on the letter.
    Doesn’t show up on BMFOLO but shows up on NAMEE Enter a TC 000 to reactivate the EIN and continue with case processing. Document actions taken in the Activity Record.
    Doesn’t show up on BMFOLO, NAMEE, or ENMOD and you can’t determine the correct EIN based on IDRS research Reject the application.

    Note:

    Remove the EIN from the letter and import IDRS research (BMFOLO, ENMOD, and NAMEE screens) into the Non-Disclosable folder if the correct EIN isn’t found.

  3. After review, if the information is complete and there’s no reason for non-acceptance:

    • Issue Letter 5822, Acknowledgment of Receipt of Form 8976, Notice of Intent to Operate Under 501(c)(4), within 60 days of receiving the completed form.

      Note:

      This is not a determination of tax-exempt status.

    • Prepare the case for closure ESAM by entering closing data.

      Note:

      The effective date is the registration date.

  4. If the form is incomplete or the organization:

    • Submitted Form 990 or Form 1024 before on or before July 8, 2016, are not required to file the notification. See Rev. Proc. 2016-41;

    • Previously submitted Form 8976 (doesn’t include previously unaccepted form);

    • Used an invalid EIN or the correct EIN can’t be determined;

    • Submitted a user fee that didn’t process;

    • Is currently exempt under IRC Section 501(c)(3); or

    • Will be formed on a future date, then:


    Issue Letter 5823, Rejection of Receipt of Form 8976, and refund any user fee paid.

  5. Time frames for processing Form 8976:

    1. The tax examiner processes the form within 2 workdays.

    2. The group manager either approves it or returns it to the tax examiner within 2 workdays.

Exhibit 7.20.4-1

Preparing Form 5666, TE/GE Referral/Information Report

  1. If an application is approved because the information therein and any additional requested information show the organization qualifies but there is reason to believe the taxpayer may not be in compliance in the future, make a referral using Form 5666, TE/GE Referral/Information Report.

  2. Select the "Referral" box.

  3. Enter the organization’s name, address, and EIN following instructions attached to the form. Explain in detail why you’re referring the organization with the pertinent facts in Item O.

  4. Email the form to your manager for digital signature.

  5. Email the signed Form 5666 and relevant information from the case file to EO Classification.