As a compassionate donor, validating the authenticity of a charity is vital. You want to ensure that your contributions to Wheels of Change in Atlanta are not just meaningful but also tax-deductible. Understanding how to verify a charity's IRS 501(c)(3) status serves as a vital part of your due diligence, protecting both your interests and the mission of the organization.
This page will guide you step-by-step on how to use the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) to confirm Wheels of Change's status. You'll also learn how to check state-level registration, ensuring your donations go to a reputable and compliant organization.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Access the IRS TEOS Tool
Visit the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. This tool allows you to search for the tax-exempt status of organizations, including Wheels of Change.
Enter EIN or Organization Name
Input the Employer Identification Number (EIN) for Wheels of Change or simply type the name of the organization into the search bar. This will retrieve relevant information about its tax-exempt status.
Verify Tax-Exempt Status
Check the status displayed. It should indicate 'Currently Exempt' along with the subsection '501(c)(3)'. This confirms that Wheels of Change is recognized as a charity by the IRS.
Check Revocation Status
Ensure that the revocation date is blank. If an organization has lost its tax-exempt status, it will be flagged here, which is a crucial detail for your records.
Confirm State Registration
Visit your state Attorney General's website to check for Wheels of Change’s charitable-solicitation registration. This ensures compliance with state regulations.
Save Your Verification
Take a screenshot or print out the verification from both the IRS TEOS and the state AG registry. Keep these documents in your donation file for your records.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Current 501(c)(3) Status
Finding that Wheels of Change holds an active 501(c)(3) designation in the IRS TEOS assures you that your donations are eligible for tax deductions.
✓ Compliance with State Laws
If the organization is registered with the Georgia Attorney General, it reflects good standing and compliance with state charitable solicitation laws.
✓ Transparency in Reporting
Availability of recent Form 990 filings indicates that Wheels of Change is committed to transparency and accountability, essential qualities of a trustworthy charity.
✓ Positive Reviews
Positive ratings from charity evaluators like Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau provide an additional layer of trust and credibility for Wheels of Change.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ Expired Status
If the IRS TEOS indicates that Wheels of Change is not currently exempt or is flagged for revocation, it raises a significant concern about its tax-deductible eligibility.
⚠ Missing State Registration
In Georgia, if you cannot find Wheels of Change listed in the state AG's charitable registry, it may indicate a lack of compliance with state laws, which is a red flag.
⚠ No Form 990 Filing
If the charity fails to file Form 990 for three consecutive years, it risks automatic revocation of its 501(c)(3) status, indicating potential financial mismanagement.
⚠ High Administrative Costs
If financial reports show excessive overhead or administrative costs compared to the funds directed to mission-driven activities, it could suggest inefficiency or misallocation of donations.
Tools + resources
- IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search: https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- Charity Navigator: https://www.charitynavigator.org
- ProPublica Nonprofit Explorer: https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- BBB Charity Reviews: https://www.bbb.org/charity-reviews
- Georgia Secretary of State: https://sos.ga.gov
- AFP - Association of Fundraising Professionals: https://afpglobal.org
Atlanta state-level oversight
In Atlanta, transparency and accountability are paramount for charities like Wheels of Change. The Georgia Attorney General's office maintains a charitable registry, which is vital for potential donors to consult. Additionally, the Better Business Bureau (BBB) provides charity reviews, helping you understand the organization's reputation. Networking through the Georgia Association of Nonprofits can also offer valuable insights into reputable local charities.