How to Verify a Charity's Tax Status Before Giving
Learn how to confirm IRS eligibility, review filings, and check state registration before donating.
Search the charity's exact legal name or EIN in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Confirm it is listed as eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. Tax-deductible means you may subtract the gift on your tax return if you meet IRS rules.
Only gifts to qualified organizations can qualify, so checking status before you give helps you plan.
Verification note: Program terms and availability can change. This page was checked against linked sources on November 05, 2026.
Which charities can receive deductible gifts?
Most charities described in section 501(c)(3) can receive deductible gifts. Many other tax-exempt groups, political organizations, or individuals generally do not qualify. The Internal Revenue Service explains these limits in its charitable contributions guidance.
Qualified groups include nonprofits with religious, charitable, educational, scientific, or literary purposes. They also include groups preventing cruelty to children or animals. Individual donors generally may deduct money or property gifts only if they itemize.
Deductions generally reach up to 50% of adjusted gross income, with 20% and 30% limits for some gifts.
How do you check the IRS list?
Start with the exact legal name, since familiar names can differ from registered names. An EIN helps narrow the match when several groups share similar names. The Internal Revenue Service describes this check in its eligible donee guidance.
Save the name, EIN, and eligibility result with your donation records.
- Enter the exact legal name or EIN in the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search
- Confirm the listing in Pub. 78 data for deductible gifts
- Review status and filings before giving
What if the charity is missing or filings look old?
Exemption is automatically revoked if a charity fails to file a required Form 990-series return for three straight years. Check the auto-revocation list and recent Form 990 filings before you give. The IRS search is only a partial listing of eligible donees.
If a charity is missing, ask it for its IRS determination letter. Then verify with IRS customer service at 877-829-5500.
Why check state registration separately?
Federal tax status does not show whether a charity may ask for donations in your state. Check the state charity regulator for solicitation compliance before you respond to an appeal. The New York Attorney General notes its charities registry shows registration status and annual financial reports in its charities registry information.
Look up the charity there when you give to a group that solicits in New York.