Our business group formed in 2004 and registered with the state as non-profit. I have now been told that since we didn't file papers for 501(c)3, we are liable for IRS fines and possibly shut down. I can't find regulations to substantiate this.

I can't find regulations to substantiate this.Hello g:

If I were told that I was breaking a law and that my organization was in trouble with the IRS, I wouldn't be looking through tax books to find out where you went wrong.. I'd be hiring somebody who can FIX it.

My bet is a CPA can do that for you.

excon

I didn't even know you could 'register with your state as a non profit' without getting your federal application approved first. Yes, hire a tax attorney. He or she might just help you get around this if you can show a good set of books. You could also be under the aegis of another similar established non-profit, which is what many do these days to cut down on fees, insurance and paperwork.