How long does it usually take for a request for tax-exempt status to be approved?
January 7, 2023 | 50,00 EUR | answered by Günther Schmidt
Dear tax advisor,
my name is Christian Schlattmann and I am a board member of a non-profit organization. Some time ago, we applied for tax-exempt status with the tax office, as we would like to take advantage of the tax benefits and issue donation receipts. Unfortunately, we have not yet received any feedback and we are starting to worry that our application could be rejected.
Our situation is as follows: Our organization is dedicated to promoting education and culture in our city and regularly organizes workshops and events for children and youth. We mainly fund ourselves through donations and membership fees and urgently need tax-exempt status to be able to continue our work.
Currently, we have been waiting for months for a response from the tax office and are starting to worry that our application may not be approved. We have submitted all the necessary documents and are confident that we meet the requirements for tax-exempt status.
My concern is that without tax-exempt status, we would suffer significant financial losses and our work would be greatly restricted. Therefore, I would like to know how long it usually takes for an application for tax-exempt status to be approved and if there is anything we can do to expedite the process.
Thank you in advance for your help and I look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Christian Schlattmann
Dear Mr. Schlattmann,
Thank you for your inquiry regarding the application for tax-exempt status for your association. It is understandable that you are concerned, as tax-exempt status is very important for your association in order to take advantage of tax benefits and issue donation receipts.
Typically, it takes several weeks to several months for the tax office to decide on an application for tax-exempt status. This depends on various factors, such as the workload of the tax office, the complexity of the case, and any inquiries from the tax office. Therefore, it is not uncommon for some time to pass before a decision is made.
It is difficult to say if there is anything you can do to expedite the process. You have already submitted all the necessary documents and are confident that your association meets the requirements for tax-exempt status. In some cases, it may be helpful to inquire with the tax office about the status of the application and whether any additional information or documents are needed.
It is important to remain patient and wait for the tax office to make a decision. If your application is denied, you can appeal and, if necessary, provide any missing documents. It may also be helpful to consult with an experienced tax advisor to ensure that all requirements for tax-exempt status are met.
I hope this response helps you and wish you success with your request. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact me.
Sincerely,
Günther Schmidt
