The Nonprofit FAQ: Lobbying

Select an FAQ   (5):

Can a 501(c)(4) become a 501(c)(3)? Yes. Filing a new application (1023) is the most direct route.

Principles and Practices for Public Policy and Advocacy Suggested policies for nonprofits to follow regarding advocacy and lobbying.

Statement about Importance of Policy Advocacy The Alliance for Justice, the Center for Lobbying in the Public Interest, and OMB Watch jointly issued this statement in the Summer of 1998. It provides a rationale for and guidance about policy advocacy for charitable nonprofits in the United States.

Summary of federal rules about lobbying for 501(c)(3) organizations Extensive discussions of the definition of and limits on lobbying by nonprofits.

Will signing a petition get us in trouble for lobbying? A 501(c)(3) can express an occassional opinion about a matter of public policy without risking being challenged for lobbying. This item discusses the rules about lobbying and advocacy and points to some more detailed resources.