NGOs and Tax Exemption: What You Need to Know

Are NGOS tax-exempt?
Yes, the charitable institution or NGO should obtain a registration under the Income Tax Act for claiming tax exemption.
Read more on cleartax.in

Although non-governmental organizations (NGOs) are typically exempt from taxes, this status is not always the case. For tax exemption, NGOs must fulfill certain requirements and adhere to specific steps. In this article, we’ll go over the criteria and steps NGOs must follow to become tax-exempt organizations. We will also respond to some frequently asked inquiries about Kentucky’s sales tax and registration requirements.

NGOs must be acknowledged as a tax-exempt organization by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in order to qualify for tax exemption. This recognition can be gained by requesting tax-exempt status from the IRS using Form 1023 or Form 1024. NGOs must present comprehensive information about their operations, finances, and organizational structure as part of the application process. If the NGO satisfies the requirements for tax exemption, the IRS evaluates the application.

501(c)(3) organizations are NGOs that are eligible for tax exemption. This entitles them to tax-deductible gifts and exempt status from federal income tax. Nevertheless, depending on their operations and location, NGOs could still be liable to additional taxes, like state and municipal taxes.

Moving on to Kentucky, it is significant to remember that some services are subject to sales tax. These services range from entrance to entertainment events to transportation, telecommunications, and other services. The state may oblige NGOs who offer these services to collect and remit sales tax.

Kentucky doesn’t typically impose a sales tax on labor. There are a few exceptions, such as when tangible personal property is installed or needs to be repaired. In these circumstances, the labor component of the service may be subject to sales tax.

An NGO must first apply for a sales tax permit with the Kentucky Department of Revenue if they are required to collect and remit sales tax in Kentucky. On their website, you can do this online, or you can send Form 51A102 to the department. Following registration, NGOs are required to regularly collect the correct amount of sales tax from their clients and send it to the state.

In conclusion, NGOs may qualify as tax-exempt organizations, but in order to do so, they must fulfill certain requirements and adhere to specific steps. Depending on their operations and location, NGOs may still be liable to additional taxes, such as state and municipal taxes. While labor is typically exempt from sales tax in Kentucky, some services are subject to it. NGOs must apply for a sales tax permit with the Kentucky Department of Revenue if they are required to collect and pay sales tax.