As a conscientious donor, you want to ensure that your contributions make a real impact. Verifying a charity's IRS 501(c)(3) status is vital for ensuring that your donations are tax-deductible and support a legitimate organization. This page aims to equip you with the necessary steps to confirm AutoLift's eligibility and promote transparency in your charitable giving.
We will guide you through the process of using the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) to verify AutoLift's status and how to check state registration. With this knowledge, you can confidently make informed decisions about your charitable contributions, ensuring that your generosity supports organizations that are compliant and trustworthy.
Step-by-step walkthrough
Access IRS TEOS
Visit the IRS Tax-Exempt Organization Search at apps.irs.gov/app/eos. This is the official tool that allows you to verify a charity's IRS 501(c)(3) status quickly and accurately.
Enter EIN or Organization Name
In the TEOS search bar, input AutoLift's Employer Identification Number (EIN) or the organization's name. This will initiate the search for its tax-exempt status.
Verify Status
After searching, confirm that the status shows 'Currently Exempt' and specifically mentions subsection '501(c)(3)'. This indicates the organization qualifies as a public charity.
Check for Revocation
Ensure that there is no revocation date listed next to the organization. If the date is blank, the charity is currently in good standing and has not lost its tax-exempt status.
Check State AG Registration
Visit your state’s Attorney General (AG) website to confirm AutoLift's charitable solicitation registration. Each state has its own requirements and registries.
Save Documentation
Take a screenshot or print the verification results and state registration confirmation. Keep this documentation with your donation records for future reference.
Positive signals (green flags)
✓ Positive TEOS Results
A clear 'Currently Exempt' status on TEOS indicates that AutoLift is recognized as a legitimate 501(c)(3) organization, reassuring you of its tax-exempt status.
✓ Registered with State AG
Verification of AutoLift's registration with New Mexico's Attorney General confirms its compliance with state laws for charitable organizations, enhancing its credibility.
✓ Accessible Form 990
If AutoLift's Form 990 is available online, it shows transparency regarding its financials, providing donors insight into how funds are utilized for its mission.
✓ Positive Charity Ratings
If AutoLift has received positive ratings from reputable charity evaluators, such as Charity Navigator or the Better Business Bureau, it indicates strong performance and accountability.
Warning signals (red flags)
⚠ No Tax-Exempt Status
If TEOS does not show 'Currently Exempt,' AutoLift may not be recognized as a tax-exempt organization. Consider this a significant red flag before donating.
⚠ Revocation Date Present
If a revocation date appears in the TEOS results, it indicates that the charity may have lost its 501(c)(3) status, which could jeopardize the tax-deductibility of your donation.
⚠ Lack of State Registration
If AutoLift is not registered with your state's AG office for charitable solicitation, it may not be legally permitted to solicit donations, raising concerns about legitimacy.
⚠ Missing Form 990 Filings
A charity that fails to file its Form 990 for three consecutive years risks losing its tax-exempt status. Check if AutoLift's filings are up to date and accessible.
Tools + resources
- https://apps.irs.gov/app/eos
- https://charitynavigator.org
- https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits
- https://bbb.org/charity-reviews
- https://www.nmnn.state.nm.us/charitable-solicitation
- https://www.understandingcharity.org
New Mexico state-level oversight
New Mexico donors should be aware of the specific regulations regarding charity transparency and solicitation. The New Mexico Attorney General’s office maintains a charitable registration database to help verify organizations operating within the state. Additionally, the local Better Business Bureau (BBB) offers charity reviews and ratings, giving you further insight into the integrity of nonprofits like AutoLift. Engaging with the New Mexico Nonprofit Association can also provide valuable resources and guidance as you navigate your charitable giving.