It can be a tough decision for non-profit agencies to decide whether to engage in advocating in politics or completely remaining out of the issues. Some companies fear losing support by getting involved in advocacy either by losing tax support or by losing supports who hate politics. There is a myth that taking part in these activities can make a company lose tax benefits, however this is a myth. As long as they stay below a designated amount, the company is safe to advocate one person or another.
Key Takeaways:
- 501(c)(3) organizations commonly believe that online advocacy will risk their 501(c)(3) non profit status.
- 501(c)(3) organizations can engage in lobbying as long as it does not exceed 20% of 1 million dollars (200,000)
- 501(c)(3) organizations can and should engage in advocacy as long as they do so in the proper way.
“It is a common misconception amongst nonprofits today that advocacy brings a risk of losing nonprofit status, but this perception is pure myth.”
