Pennsylvania Sales Tax Exemption
STEPS TO APPLYING FOR PENNSYLVANIA SALES TAX EXEMPTION
What tax exemptions can my Pennsylvania non profit take advantage of?
Non profits in Pennsylvania will have to pay the corporate tax on their collected contributions at the state level even if they have received 501c status from the IRS. However, any institution may apply for an exemption from Pennsylvania sales tax.
How do PA nonprofits apply for sales tax exemption?
Submit the completed Sales Tax Exemption Application and mail it in with the required attachments to the PA Department of Revenue, Bureau of Business Trust Fund Taxes. The documents that should accompany the application are: copies of the articles of incorporation and bylaws, the most current financial statement and IRS form 990, plus a copy of an IRS determination letter if one exists.
The sales tax exemption application can be found on the Department’s website or in your online account if “Northwest” is your CROP.
How do I use my PA sales tax exemption certificate?
Once your application is approved, the department will mail you a certificate. Any purchases made by your Pennsylvania non-profit that relate to your charitable purpose are exempt from sales tax. You present the certificate to the vendor at the time of purchase and the certificate will be recorded.
How much does it cost to apply for the tax exemption certificate?
There is no fee.
How long does it take to receive my PA Sales Tax Exemption Certificate?
Allow up to a month to receive your organization’s sales tax exemption certificate.
Do I have to renew annually?
No; the sales tax exemption certificate is good for a five-year period. If your charitable nonprofit is still operating in Pennsylvania at the end of the period, you will refile the application.
Pennsylvania Tax Exemption Resources:
PA Department of Revenue
Bureau of Business Trust Fund Taxes
P.O. Box 280909
Harrisburg, PA 17128-0909
This comprehensive guide to obtaining and maintaining 501c3 status from the IRS includes information on how to prepare your nonprofit to apply for 501c3 status, as well as information about the forms and fees required by the IRS.
This guide overviews and includes the special tax-exempt language a 501c3 nonprofit organization must include as part of its articles of incorporation.