Answer first: For an IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search check, use the IRS TEOS tool to search by organization name or EIN, then review Pub. 78 eligibility, tax-exempt status, determination letters, Form 990 filings, Form 990-N records, and automatic revocation data before relying on a nonprofit claim.
Last checked: June 8, 2026.
Quick check
| Check | Why it matters | Where to verify |
|---|---|---|
| Organization name or EIN | DBA names may not match IRS records. | IRS TEOS |
| Pub. 78 data | This can help check contribution deductibility. | IRS TEOS data set |
| Determination letter | A letter can show recognition details and effective dates. | IRS TEOS |
| Form 990 filings | Filings can provide activity and financial context. | IRS TEOS |
| Automatic revocation | A revoked organization may later be reinstated, so check multiple data sets. | IRS TEOS |
Step-by-step verification
- Open the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search page.
- Search by EIN if available because names and DBA wording can vary.
- Check Pub. 78 data for contribution eligibility when donation deductibility matters.
- Review determination letters and Form 990 filings if available.
- Check automatic revocation data and look for reinstatement indicators.
- Use state charity registry records separately when solicitation registration matters.
What can differ
- Tax-exempt status and tax-deductible contribution eligibility are not always the same thing.
- Some organizations may not appear under a DBA name.
- State charity registration is separate from IRS tax-exempt status.
Official sources
Use official or primary sources before relying on ads, directories, old forum posts, or copied summaries.
| Official source | URL |
|---|---|
| IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search | https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/tax-exempt-organization-search |
| IRS search for tax exempt organizations help | https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations |
| IRS charities and nonprofits | https://www.irs.gov/charities-and-nonprofits |
Related checks
- Charity Number Lookup Official Check Guide
- Nonprofit Registry Official Check Guide
- Charity Register Official Check Guide
FAQ
Is 501(c)(3) status the same as being allowed to solicit donations?
No. State charity registration can be a separate requirement.
Should I search by EIN or name?
Use EIN when possible because organization names and DBA names can differ.
Does a Form 990 prove a charity is safe?
No. It gives useful information, but you may still need governance, state, and scam-risk checks.
Note: Registry Check Guide is not a government agency, regulator, airline, manufacturer, lender, tax adviser, legal adviser, or official registry. This guide explains how to check official sources before acting.