How to Become Tax Exempt in Wisconsin: A Guide for Nonprofits

How do I become tax exempt in Wisconsin?
A qualifying nonprofit organization may purchase items exempt from tax by providing the seller either of the following: A fully completed Wisconsin Sales and Use Tax Certificate (Form S-211 or S-211E) indicating the organization meets the requirements of section 501(c)(3) of the IRC. The organization’s CES number.
Read more on www.revenue.wi.gov

A nonprofit organization must have tax exemption in order to function without paying taxes on their income or assets. In order to be granted tax-exempt status in Wisconsin, rigorous planning and adherence to local, state, and federal laws are necessary. This page will give a general summary of how to apply for tax-exempt status in Wisconsin, how to get a tax exemption certificate, who is eligible for matriculation exemption, and what the tax exemption involves.

How to Apply in Wisconsin for Tax Exempt Status

Nonprofit organizations must first establish a corporation or other legal structure in order to become tax exempt in Wisconsin. Then, using Form 1023 or 1023-EZ, this entity must apply to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for federal tax-exempt status. Following IRS approval, the group must submit Form S-103 to the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) in order to apply for state tax-exempt status.

The form requests comprehensive details about the group, including its goals, initiatives, and financial situation. Additionally, the DOR may ask for copies of the organization’s bylaws, financial records, and articles of formation. There is a $20 application fee. How to Receive a Tax Exemption Certificate The organization may submit an application for a tax exemption certificate after receiving tax-exempt status from the DOR and the IRS. The certificate enables the company to make purchases free of use and sales taxes in Wisconsin. The organization must finish Form S-211 and submit it to the DOR in order to apply for a certificate.

Name, address, and tax-exempt ID of the organization are required on the form. A certificate with a two-year expiration date will be provided by the DOR. To avoid paying sales tax, the certificate must be shown to sellers at the time of purchase.

Who is eligible for a waiver from matriculation?

In Wisconsin, nonprofit corporations and some individuals may both be excused from paying taxes. A matriculation exemption may be available to graduates who are enrolled at least half-time in a college or university. Textbooks and other course materials bought for educational reasons are covered by this exemption.

Students must finish Form S-211 and hand it to the merchant while making a purchase to be eligible for the exemption. Electronics and other general products are not covered by the exemption.

What Is the Tax Exemption as a Result?

A legal position known as tax exemption shields an entity from having to pay taxes on its earnings or assets. Tax-exempt organizations in Wisconsin are still required to submit yearly reports to the DOR and follow all applicable state and federal laws. Nonprofit organizations can concentrate on their goals and operations without having to worry about paying taxes thanks to the tax exemption.

Finally, obtaining tax exemption in Wisconsin necessitates meticulous preparation and respect to local, state, and federal laws. An official legal structure, tax-exempt status from the federal and state governments, and a tax exemption certificate are requirements for nonprofit organizations. Students who have graduated may also be qualified for a matriculation exemption. Nonprofit organizations can pursue their objectives and activities with the help of tax exemptions.