Part 3. Submission Processing
Chapter 20. Exempt Organizations Returns Processing
Section 13. Exempt Organizations Photocopy Procedures
3.20.13 Exempt Organizations Photocopy Procedures
Manual Transmittal
December 19, 2023
Purpose
(1) This transmits revised IRM 3.20.13, Exempt Organization Returns Processing, Exempt Organizations Photocopy Procedures.
Material Changes
(1) IRM 3.20.13.7.1(2)(3), IPU 23U0604 issued 05-09-2023 - Added instructions when requests cannot be filled within 30 days, issue Letter 2645C, Interim Letter.
(2) IRM 3.20.13.9.1(5)Table, IPU 23U0833 issued 07-19-2023 - Updated Return and Schedules table - MeF returns not located in SEIN to one 14-day suspension period and added Media request no suspension period required.
(3) IRM 3.20.13.9.1(7)d, IPU 23U0833 issued 07-19-2023 - Updated suspension period to one 14-day and added Exception for Media request no suspension period required.
(4) IRM 3.20.13.9.3(1), IPU 23U0677 issued 06-01-2023 - Added Note - Instructions when Form 4506-A is received from a Foreign Address and missing information.
(5) IRM 3.20.13.9.3.1(1) – Removed Figure 3.20.13-15, refer to Initial Research table.
(6) IRM 3.20.13.9.3.1(1)Table – Removed Figure 3.20.13-16, refer to IRM 3.20.13.9.3.2 reference.
(7) IRM 3.20.13.9.3.1(1)Table – Updated instruction when no requester name or address is provided.
(8) IRM 3.20.13.9.3.1(1), IPU 23U0677 issued 06-01-2023 - Added Note - Instructions when Form 4506-A is received from a Foreign Address and all information is present.
(9) IRM 3.20.13.9.4(1), IPU 23U0677 issued 06-01-2023 - Added Note - Instructions when Form 4506-A is received from a Foreign Address, the Types of Requests and Actions to Take.
(10) IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2), IPU 23U0833 issued 07-19-2023 Table - Updated MeF return isn’t located in SEIN to one 14-day suspension period and added Exception for Media request no suspension period required.
(11) IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2), IPU 23U0604 issued 05-09-2023 - Added Note after the "Types of Requests and Actions to Take" table when requests cannot be filled within 30 days, issue Letter 2645C, Interim Letter.
(12) IRM 3.20.13.9.4.5(1), IPU 23U0604 issued 05-09-2023 - Updated instructions within the "Other Scenarios" table when requests cannot be filled within 30 days, issue Letter 2645C, Interim Letter.
(13) Various grammatical and editorial, dates and link changes made throughout the IRM.
Effect on Other Documents
This supersedes IRM 3.20.13, dated October 21, 2022. Interim Guidance is incorporated from IRM Procedural Updates (IPU), 23U0604, 23U0677, and 23U0833.
Audience
Wage and Investment (W&I) Submission Processing
Effective Date
(01-01-2024)
Deborah D. Holloman
Director of Shared Services
Tax Exempt and Government Entities
Program Scope and Objectives
(1) Purpose - This IRM provides the necessary instructions, guidelines and procedures for filling requests (both paper and digital data) for public inspection of Exempt Organization (EO) returns.
(2) Audience - Wage and Investment (W&I), Submission Processing (SP), EO Return and Income Verification Services (RAIVS)
(3) Policy Owner - The Director, Tax Exempt and Government Entities, and Business Systems Planning
(4) Program Owner - Submission Processing Programs (SPP)
(5) Primary Stakeholders - Exempt Organization Headquarters who rely on the Imaged returns to comply with IRC 6104.
Background
(1) This IRM contains instructions for procedures on responding to requests (both paper and digital data) for public inspection of EO returns.
Authority
(1) The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) follows the requirements of IRC 6104 by making photocopies of the relevant filings of exempt organizations available to the public upon written request. See IRC 6104 .
Responsibilities
(1) The Campus Director is responsible for monitoring operational performance for Submission Processing.
(2) The Operations Manager is responsible for monitoring operational performance for the operation.
(3) The EO RAIVS Team Manager and Lead is responsible for the performance monitoring and ensuring employees have the tools to perform their duties.
(4) The EO RAIVS Employees are responsible for following the instructions contained in this IRM and maintaining updated IRM procedures.
Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS)
(1) The National Taxpayer Advocate (NTA) has reached agreements with the Commissioners of the Wage & Investment (W&I) Division, Small Business & Self-Employed (SB/SE) Division, Tax Exempt & Government Entities (TE/GE) Division, Criminal Investigation (CI), Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Independent Office of Appeals and Large Business and International Division (LB&I) Divisions. This Service Level Agreement (SLA) outlines the procedures and responsibilities for the processing of Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) casework when either the statutory or the delegated authority to complete case transactions is outside TAS.
(2) The SLA is located in IRM 25.30.7, Service Level Agreement between the Tax Exempt & Government Entities Division and the Taxpayer Advocate Service.
TAS is an Independent Organization
(1) The Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS) is an independent organization within the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), led by the National Taxpayer Advocate. Its job is to protect taxpayers’ rights by striving to ensure that every taxpayer is treated fairly and knows and understands their rights under the Taxpayer Bill of Rights (TBOR). TAS offers free help to taxpayers, including when taxpayers face financial difficulties due to an IRS problem, when they are unable to resolve tax problems, they haven’t been able to resolve on their own, or when they need assistance to address an IRS system, process, or procedure that is not functioning as it should. TAS has at least one taxpayer advocate office located in every state, the District of Columbia, and Puerto Rico.
Taxpayers have the right to expect the tax system to consider facts and circumstances that might affect their underlying liabilities, ability to pay, or ability to provide information timely. Taxpayers have the right to receive assistance from the Taxpayer Advocate Service if they are experiencing financial difficulty or if the IRS has not resolved their tax issues properly and timely through its normal channels.
Taxpayers have the right to receive prompt, courteous, and professional assistance in their dealings with the IRS, to be spoken to in a way they can easily understand, to receive clear and easily understandable communications from the IRS, and to speak to a supervisor about inadequate service.
Operations Assistance Requests (OAR)
(1) The TAS uses Form 12412, Operations Assistance Request (OAR), to start the OAR process of referring a case to the Wage and Investment (W&I) Division, to affect their solution of the taxpayer’s problem. For more information, refer to IRM 13.1.19, Advocating With Operations Assistance Requests (OARs).
(2) For cases requiring an OAR:
TAS will complete Form 12412 and forward the case to the Operating Division Liaison using Form 3210, Document Transmittal.
The Operating Division Liaison will review the case, assign it to the appropriate area, and monitor the case through its conclusion.
(3) Make every effort to acknowledge and resolve the requested OAR actions within the SLA time frames as listed on Form 12412.
EXPEDITE PROCESSING
•When TAS requests expedite processing, the Operating Division (OD) or Functional Liaison acknowledges receipt using Form 3210, secure e-mail, facsimile, or by telephone to acknowledge receipt and to provide the name and phone number of the IRS employee assigned to work the case within one (1) day of receipt of the OAR involving any TAS case that has "EXPEDITE" notated under the actual Criteria Code in the Criteria Code box on the Form 12412.
•The OD/Function Liaison will provide, within three (3) workdays of acknowledging receipt of the OAR, a decision on whether of not they will provide the relief requested. The decision will be in writing, facsimile, secure email or hand delivery to the TAS Case Advocate.NON-EXPEDITE PROCESSING
•If TAS does not request expedite processing, the OD/Function Liaison will use Form 3210, secure email, facsimile, or by telephone, to both acknowledge receipt and to provide the name and phone number of the IRS employee assigned to work the case within three (3) workdays of receipt of a non-expedited TAS OAR.
(4) If necessary, the assigned employee/manager may contact the TAS employee and negotiate the completion date in resolving the OAR actions.
Assigned employee: If you cannot resolve a taxpayer’s case by the requested time frame or by a negotiated extension date, immediately notify your manager.
Assigned manager/employee: Work with the TAS contact listed on Form 12412 to agree on time frames based on the case’s facts and circumstances.
Assigned manager/employee: Discuss the findings final case disposition recommendation with the appropriate TAS contact. The TAS contact communicates the final decision on the case to the taxpayer. However, you may also notify the taxpayer of the decision.
Assigned employee/manager: If the TAS contact and you cannot agree on how to resolve the taxpayer’s problem, elevate any disagreement to your manager. The TAS employee will also elevate this disagreement to their manager who discusses it with the appropriate Operating Division manager.
Upon case resolution, the TEGE employee assigned the OAR completes section VI of Form 12412 and returns it to the TAS case advocate. Return the Form 12412 within three (3) workdays from the date that all actions are complete and transactions posted.
(5) For more detailed information, please refer to: IRM 13, Taxpayer Advocate Service.
Program Management and Review
(1) Program Reports:
RAIVS Customers Orders Report identifies the number of digital data requests received in the EO RAIVS unit. The report is available on SEIN.
EO Photocopy (EOPC) Payment Request Report is maintained by EO RAIVS in received date order, by year, and is used to record all payments received and billing information associated with Form 2860, Document Transmittal and Bill. The report is located on the shared drive by accessing, S:\ODN\SP\DCO\Data Dept. 1\Team 35111\TEGE\EOPC Payment Request Rpt.xls.
Form 4506-A, Request for a Copy of Exempt or Political Organization IRS Form, Counts Report records the number of requests received and closed for both current and prior years in a calendar year. It doesn’t include the number of forms copied. It is maintained by EO RAIVS.
(2) Program Effectiveness:
Managerial Reviews
Improvement Team Reviews
TE/GE Assistant Visit Reviews
Program Controls
(1) Below is a list of Organization Function Program (OFP) codes used for processing specific requests for EO returns.
790-34200 — EO (all non-media requests and related research)
790-34204 — Media requests (working Media requests)
790-34205 — Digital data requests
790-34206 — Senate Finance Committee or Congressional cases
520-34000 — Reimbursable photocopy fees
(2) Reporting Time to WP&C when requesting for copies of EO returns. Counts as one request for each tax period, not each Form 4506-A request. Notate the number of tax periods and the number of closed Form 4506-A or correspondence closed in the batch, on the batch tag. Use the OFP Codes above for processing the requests.
Note: If a request contains multiple items, once closed, store only one copy of the request in the media closed file. Store reoccurring requester cases separately in the files. Do not staple together and store.
Terms/Definitions/Acronyms
(1) For a list of Terms, Definitions, and Acronyms, see IRM 3.20.13.2.5, Glossary of Terms.
Related Resources
(1) For a list of related resources, see IRM 3.20.13.2, IRM Overview.
IRM Overview
(1) This IRM provides the necessary instructions, guidelines and procedures for filling requests (both paper and digital data) for public inspection of Exempt Organization (EO) returns. Refer to these additional IRMs for more guidance:
IRM 11.3, Disclosure of Official Information
IRM 3.20.12, Imaging and Perfecting Exempt Organization Returns for Public and Internal Viewing
IRM 3.5.20, Processing Requests for Tax Return/Return Information
(2) Any instructions written at the campus (e.g., desk procedures, job aids, etc.) to clarify IRM 3.20.13, Exempt Organization Photocopy Procedures, can only be implemented if approved by the TE/GE SPP staff. This also applies to any notices and/or letters used during the EOPC process.
A Form 2061, Document Clearance Record, must be signed and kept on file for all changes.
If procedures are implemented before TE/GE SPP Staff approves, the funds will be transferred back to TE/GE.
Note: TE/GE doesn’t fund procedures unless approved by the business owner.
(3) Use CRX Letter 3983-C, EO Copy Request Response, when writing to the requester. Don’t use "Quick" notes (hand written letters) or other local letters unless specifically directed. For guidance on inputting common letter entries on Letter 3983-C, EO Copy Request Response, go to http://serp.enterprise.irs.gov/databases/forms-ltrs-pubs.dr/crxltrs.dr/c.dr/3983c.htm and refer to the notes section of the letter.
Overview of Public Inspection Under IRC 6104
(1) Information included on certain annual information returns of organizations and trusts that are exempt or seeking exempt status, or information required to be filed must be made available for public inspection under IRC 6104.
Public Inspection of Annual Returns and Applications for Tax Exempt Status
(1) For an overview of public inspection of annual returns and applications for tax exempt status, see IRM 3.20.12.2.1, Public Inspection of Annual Returns and Applications for Tax Exempt Status.
Form 990 & Form 990-EZ Revision
(1) The core Form 990 consists of 12 pages and includes numerous schedules. Schedules that are open for public inspection are clearly identified in the upper right hand corner by the statement "Open to Public Inspection."
(2) The following schedules may be filed with Form 990, depending on the tax year of the form submitted. All schedules are open for public disclosure except the specific information listed in IRM 3.20.12.
Schedule A, Public Charity Status and Public Support
Schedule B, Schedule of Contributors
Schedule C, Political Campaign and Lobbying Activities
Schedule D, Supplemental Financial Statements
Schedule E, Schools
Schedule F, Statement of Activities Outside the United States
Schedule F-1, Continuation Sheet for Schedule F (Form 990)
Schedule G, Supplemental Information Regarding Fundraising or Gaming Activities
Schedule H, Hospitals
Schedule I, Grants and Other Assistance to Organizations, Governments, and Individuals in the United States
Schedule I-1, Continuation Sheet for Schedule I
Schedule J, Compensation Information
Schedule J-1, Continuation Sheet for Schedule J (Form 990)
Schedule J-2 Continuation Sheet for Form 990
Schedule K, Supplemental Information on Tax-Exempt Bonds
Schedule L, Transactions with Interested Persons
Schedule M, Noncash Contributions
Schedule N, Liquidation, Termination, Dissolution or Significant Disposition of Assets
Schedule N-1, Continuation Sheet for Form 990 (or Form 990-EZ) Schedule N
Schedule O, Supplemental Information to Form 990 or 990-EZ
Schedule R, Related Organizations and Unrelated Partnerships
Schedule R-1, Continuation Sheet for Schedule R
(3) The Schedules A, B, C, E, G, L, N and O, may be filed with Form 990-EZ, Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax, depending on the tax year of the form submitted. All schedules are open to public disclosure except the specific information in IRM 3.20.12.3.15(1).
Form 990-N, Electronic Notice (e-Postcard) for Tax-Exempt Organizations Not Required to File Form 990 or Form 990-EZ
(1) Most small tax-exempt organizations whose annual gross receipts are $50,000 or less, may file Form 990-N, if they choose not to file Form 990 or Form 990-EZ. Other exceptions to this requirement include:
Organizations included in a group return.
Churches, their integrated auxiliaries and conventions or associations of churches.
Organizations required to file a form other than Form 990-N.
(2) If you receive a request, and through IDRS research you find Form 990-N was filed instead of Form 990, Form 990-EZ or Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation or Section 4947(a)(1) Trust Treated as Private Foundation, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4 (2), Types of Requests Received.
Glossary of Terms
(1) The following terms apply to the RAIVS process.
RAIVS Glossary of TermsTerm | Description |
---|---|
Bad Pay | Requesters who haven’t paid in full for requested EO information. |
Contributor(s) | Contributor(s) may be individuals, fiduciaries, partnerships, corporations, associations, trusts, government agencies or EOs. A contributor is a person who gave money, securities or any other type of property to the organization, either directly or indirectly. These are persons who have contributed gifts to the organization. |
|
|
EO | Exempt Organization. |
ESTAB | IDRS command code used to order Form 990 series returns from Files. |
EUP | Employee User Portal is used to view returns filed using the Modernized electronic Filing (MeF) system. |
FRC | Federal Records Center. |
Grants | Cash or non-cash given out by EOs. |
IDRS | Integrated Data Retrieval System. |
Mass Request | One requester asking for Form 990 EO information for 100 or more organizations. |
Media Request | Any request from personnel who work for a newspaper, television station, radio or other news organization. |
Not EO | Term used to indicate not open to public inspection. |
Raw Format | Digital data contain image files in Tag Image File (TIF) format for returns selected for the month or quarter requested. |
SEIN Research | Statistics of Income Exempt Organizations Return Image Net system. |
SEIN Research Type Code | SEIN Research Type Code Meaning |
1- 990/990-EZ C3's Code:
| 1-990/990-EZ C3’s Meaning:
|
2- 990/990-EZ Non-C3's Code:
| 2- 990/990-EZ Non-C3's Meaning:
|
3- 990-PF Code:
| 3- 990-PF Meaning:
|
PY | Processing Year. |
RAIVS | Return and Income Verification Services. |
Redact | Term used to omit information not open to public inspection. |
Restrict | Term used when an entire page of information is not open to public inspection. |
SOI | Statistics of Income. |
Purge | Term used when discarding old files. |
Suspense | Term used for storing EO cases waiting for payment and/or more information. |
Unauthorized Disclosure | making known to any person, in any manner, a return or return information that is required to be restricted or redacted. |
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Batching and Assigning Procedures
(1) When clerks receive requests in the EO RAIVS unit, do the following:
Batching and Assigning InstructionsStep | Instructions |
---|---|
1. | Date stamp the request (Form 4506-A or correspondence). Note: All time frames start from the EO RAIVS received date. Do not stamp over any pertinent information (i.e., Employer Identification number (EIN), year, boxes, etc.). |
2. | Perform an expedite pre-sort for media and special requests before routing to the TE/GE SPP Analyst. Expedite batch and record on the inventory reports. See IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2), for additional instructions. Items batched must identify and request the following when routing to SPP.
|
3. | Sort and batch the cases into folders identified as follows:
See IRM 3.20.13.5, Sorting Procedures, for additional instructions. Note: To avoid duplicate controls, if a Form 2860, or Form 2221, Schedule of Collections is attached or the request is in response to a letter sent by EO RAIVS (e.g. payment needed, etc.), check the suspense files for the case. If found, associate and give to the clerk. If no case is in suspense, batch as stated above. |
4. | On the batch tag, record the number of Form 4506-A’s,years being requested and the" EO RAIVS received date" as the received date. |
5. | Assign a batch number to the folder. Note: You don’t need to attach a history sheet Form 13659, EO/Photocopy Case History Sheet, to each request. All information and actions are recorded on the request. If more space is needed, the clerk may use an additional Form 13659. |
6. | Give to the Lead to log batches on the inventory report. |
7. | Place the batched cases on the wall. |
8. | More Sort Guidelines:
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(2) Don’t send a letter to the requester informing them of the transfer. The clerk will route directly to the other sites on a daily basis. See IRM 3.20.13.4(1).
Routing Procedures and Types of Requests
(1) When routing, do the following:
Note: When EEFaxing, do not EEFax a cover sheet, Form 3210, Document Transmittal, or the envelope, unless specifically requested from the receiving area.
If the request asks | Then |
---|---|
for items to be filled in Ogden and another Site (see table below) and "EO DETERMS" isn’t present on the request, |
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only for items that can’t be filled in Ogden (see table below), |
|
If the request asks | Then |
---|---|
on Form 4506-A, Revision 12-2019 for a copy of the organization’s rules and regulations:
| do the following:
|
for a confirmation of exempt status by phone, | refer to TE/GE W&I Customer Accounts Services (CAS) at (877) 829-5500. |
to inspect a return, report, notice or an exempt application at the IRS National Headquarters or an IRS office, Note: See IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2) for additional instructions. | mail to: Note: The office handling the request will contact the requester to schedule an appointment when the item is available for inspection. |
for a Form 990-BL Information and Initial Excise Tax Return for Black Lung Benefit Trusts and Certain Related Person, | route to: |
Other Types of Requests
(1) Requests for public inspection are handled by SPP. Route the request to the TE/GE SPP Analyst at Mail Stop 1110 or send by secure email.
When contacting TE/GE SPP Analyst for request, include only one requester per secure email.
Include a copy of the Form 4506-A or letter.
For media request, indicate the contact process was completed.
(2) If you receive a request from news media to coordinate disclosure of exempt organization information, you must contact the three Field Media Relations Specialists (FMRS) by email at https://irssource.web.irs.gov/CL/Lists/Communications/Media%20Relations.aspx and click on" Media Determination Team for TEGE inquiries".
Caution: Don’t contact the news media directly.
(3) If you receive a request from the news media, a major national media outlet or a person with the news media in a foreign country, you must contact the three FMRS by email at https://irssource.web.irs.gov/CL/Lists/Communications/Media%20Relations.aspx and click on" Media Determination Team for TEGE inquiries".
Caution: Don’t contact the news media, national media outlet, or a person with the news media in a foreign country directly.
(4) If Legislative Affairs (LA) receives a Congressional request, they may EEFax the request to EO RAIVS to be processed. If you receive a Congressional request for Form 990 or other tax exempt documents, immediately forward the request to the lead or manager. For more information, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4.2, Congressional or Senate Finance Committee Requests.
(5) If a request is from a:
Congressional Committee or a Member of Congress (MC) requesting the information for official purposes, refer the request to the Director of LA. See IRM 3.20.13.9.4.2.1, Legislative Affairs (LA) Requests on Behalf of a Member of Congress (MC) or Senate.
Member of Congress requesting returns or material on behalf of a constituent, refer the request to the local Taxpayer Advocate’s office of the Congress member’s home state (see IRM 13.1.8, Congressional Affairs Program). See IRM 3.20.13.9.4.2.2, Legislative Affairs Requests on Behalf of a Constituent.
Sorting Procedures
(1) When sorting, there are several items to consider. View the Sorting Instructions below for additional instructions.
Sorting InstructionsWork Type | Suggested Batch Size (number of printed pages that will fit in a batch folder) | Aged date in calendar days or business days from EO RAIVS received date |
---|---|---|
Photocopy requests - non-media Note: All form types are batched together. | 50 or less | 25 calendar days |
Photocopy requests - media Note: All form types are batched together. | 50 or less | 14 business days |
Digital data requests - non-media | 50 or less | 25 calendar days Note: Available on TEOS. |
Digital Data requests - media | 50 or less | 14 business days Note: Available on TEOS. |
Reimbursable photocopy fees - non-media. Note: Re-batch to this sort once determined by the case working clerk as such. See IRM 3.20.13.5 (4) , Re-batching Work below. | 50 or less |
|
Reimbursable photocopy fees - media. Note: Re-batch to this sort once determined by the case working clerk as such. See IRM 3.20.13.5 (4) , Re-batching Work below. | 50 or less | 14 business days |
(2) If a request is received in EEFAX or written correspondence other than Form 4506-A, batch the request as indicated above.
(3) Route correspondence which asks for clarification why a prior request for copy wasn’t available, to EO Accounts using Form 12634, Correspondence Transmittal, Mail Stop 6710 for response and refer telephone contact to the TE/GE Call-site at 1-877-829-5500.
(4) Re-batching Work - After research, if any of the following occur, re-batch the work to the correct batch or new batch if held or suspended. To adjust the Master Inventory Control System, update the count on the original batch tag and inventory report by the number of years and the number of Form 4506-A now being counted under the correct or new batch.
Batched under incorrect category
Identified as an reimbursable photocopy fee
Must be held or suspended
Clerk Responsibilities
(1) When case work is batched and ready to process, do the following:
Clerk InstructionsSteps | Instructions |
---|---|
1. | Retrieve batches of work from the wall as needed. |
2. | Annotate employee number and date on the front left margin, and all actions taken on the request (Form 4506-A/correspondence). You may use the front and back. If more space is needed, you may also use Form 13659, EO/Photocopy Case History Sheet. |
3. | Assign as applicable following local established procedures. |
4. | Perform an expedite pre-sort of each batch for media requests and requests sent to the TE/GE SPP Analyst. Research each request in the batch to identify special requests. Work these expedite requests first as they require suspense for information. See IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2) table for "additional instructions," before routing. Items sent to TE/GE SPP Analyst include requests for:
|
5. | Control the cases on IDRS on the specific tax period(s) requested (if multiple years are requested on one EIN, one control is opened): Note: Follow Re-batching work instructions. See IRM 3.20.13.5(4).
Note: Requests that can’t be filled and don't require suspense for determination, aren’t controlled. |
6. | Close the cases on IDRS immediately after all actions are taken and case is closed. |
Controlling Cases, and Retention of Form 4506-A Requests
(1) Control Cases — All cases that meet the case work requirement in IRM 3.20.13.6, Clerk Responsibilities, must be controlled on IDRS in "B" status. Case category codes are contained in Document 6209,
(2) When controlling EO RAIVS requests, use the following Category Code: EOPC.
(3) Records Retention for Form 4506-A - Retain all Form 4506-A and correspondence received for copies of EO tax forms in accordance with Document 12990, Records and Information Management Records Control Schedules (RCS) 29, Item 93 (5), as approved by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) to prevent inadvertent/unlawful destruction of records.
Timeliness Guidelines for EOPC Inventory
(1) Requests made on forms that include information on the expected delivery date aren’t considered taxpayer correspondence and aren’t subject to Policy Statement P-21-3 Guidelines (Action 61). If the case isn’t closed within the processing time frame indicated on the form, the taxpayer must be notified of the status using the appropriate letter.
Note: Policy Statement P-21-3 is the result of a team formed to review Corporate Critical Success Factor 61 which dealt with existing requirements for the quality and timeliness of responses issued by the Service. For more information see IRM 1.2.1.13.3, Policy Statement 21-3 (Formerly P-6-12), Timeliness and Quality of Taxpayer Correspondence and IRM 21.3.3.4.2, Policy Statement P-21-3 Procedures.
(2) A quality response is timely when initiated within 30 day calendar days of the earliest stamped EO RAIVS received date.
(3) When a quality response cannot be issued timely, an interim response is initiated by the 30th calendar day from the earliest stamped EO RAIVS received date. Issue Letter 2645-C, Interim Letter.
(4) Once a request is closed, hold the case file in the applicable EO holding area as determined by local procedures.
(5) Time frames are based on IRM 3.30.123 , Processing Timeliness: Cycles, Criteria and Critical Dates. All requests have processing time frames and age criteria.
If the request is | Then |
---|---|
for a copy of tax forms (non-media), | consider these cases aged at 25 calendar days after the EO RAIVS received date. Note: If the case requires the form to be suspended, consider these cases aged at up to 45 calendar days after the EO RAIVS received date. See IRM 3.20.13.5, Sorting Procedures. |
a Media request, | consider these cases aged at 14 business days after the EO RAIVS received date. See IRM 3.20.13.5. |
Commonly Requested Documents and Disclosure to the Public
(1) The most commonly requested documents that are made available for public inspection in accordance with IRC 6104(a)(1)(A) and IRC 6104(b) are: Commonly Requested Documents Disclosed to the Public
Commonly Requested Documents | Area that fills the request |
---|---|
Form 990, Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
| EO RAIVS |
Form 990-EZ, Short Form Return of Organization Exempt From Income Tax
| EO RAIVS |
Form 990-PF, Return of Private Foundation
| EO RAIVS |
Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return | EO RAIVS |
Form 5227 | EO RAIVS |
Form 1023 | Cincinnati |
Form 1023-EZ | Cincinnati |
Form 1024 | Cincinnati |
Exemption Determination | Cincinnati |
Affirmation Letter | Cincinnati |
Form 1041-A, U.S. Information Return Trust Accumulation of Charitable Amounts | Disclosure |
Other Form(s) Note: Taxpayer may request other forms not listed above. | EO RAIVS or Cincinnati
|
Forms Imaged
(1) Extraneous materials are no longer imaged or provided on EO RAIVS Form 990, Form 990-EZ, Form 990-PF and Form 990-T requests. This also applies to Schedule B when specifically requested. Only the form, schedules and requested attachments are imaged and provided. See IRM 3.20.12, for a complete list of disclosure, redaction and restriction instructions for Form 990, Form 990-EZ, Form 990-PF and Form 990-T imaged. The Sub Date in SEIN is the imaged date on e-file returns. The scanned stamp date is the imaged date on paper returns. The following "exceptions" apply:
When a reasonable cause letter created by IRS is attached, the letter is treated as correspondence and restricted. Letters created by the filer requesting reasonable cause, statements written on the forms, schedules and requested attachments aren’t considered correspondence and aren’t redacted.
IRS considers e-file pages labeled "additional data pages" containing return information as part of the Form and Schedules. These pages are placed in the order of the form and schedules they relate to. They are not considered extraneous/supplemental materials, are not restricted as such. Extraneous/supplemental materials are placed behind the form and schedules and must be restricted.
A Form 990-T filed solely for the purpose of claiming a refund of Back-up Withholding (BUWH) credit isn’t open for public inspection or disclosure. See IRM 3.20.13.8.6 (3), Form 990-T Redacting Procedures, for instructions.
Information That May Not Be Disclosed on Forms
(1) Contributor names and addresses and certain contribution amounts must be redacted from certain returns before the returns are open to public inspection.
(2) In general, the names and addresses of contributors to an organization other than private foundations aren’t available for public inspection.
(3) The amounts of contributions and bequests to an organization will be available for public inspection unless the disclosure can reasonably be expected to identify any contributor.
Note: To reduce the risk of inadvertently identifying contributors, TE/GE established the policy to not include Schedule B, that lists contributors and the amounts of contributions, with images of Form 990, Form 990-EZ, and Form 990-T for mass distribution, such as digital data sets or other public media, and won’t include the schedule in individual requests for copies. The Schedule B is restricted. Requesters are advised they may request the redacted Schedule B. If requested, the schedules must be redacted per the guidance provided in this section.
(4) Review the form including attachments for contributor information to be restricted.
Exception: For Form 990 and Form 990-EZ with the 527 box checked (and determined to be a 527 POL through IDRS research), and the requester specifically requests a copy of Schedule B, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4 (2), "If and Then" table for Form 990 or Form 990-EZ with the 527 box checked and determined a 527 POL through IDRS research and the Schedule B is specifically requested".
Names and addresses of contributors to private foundation are open to public inspection. If a Schedule B is attached to Form 990-PF, it isn’t restricted or redacted. Grant or grantor information listed on a return isn’t considered to be information pertaining to contributions and is open to public inspection.
Exception: If the foundation checks Form 990-PF, box D(2) in the heading, Schedule B is to be restricted. See IRC 4948(b) for more information.
Political organizations, names, addresses and additional information provided on Form 8871 and Form 8872 are open to public inspection. See IRM 11.3.9 and IRM 3.20.13.9.4
Exception: SSNs are redacted and Schedule B of Form 990 if attached, is restricted.
IRS Codes and Marks that can be Disclosed
(1) Most IRS codes and marks can be disclosed. Here is a list of IRS codes and marks open for public inspection.
IRS Received Date
Document Locator Number (DLN)
Red, brown, orange, or blue edit perfections
Transcription edit mark such as ‘arrows’
The words Original, Final and Amended
Marks and stamps used by the scanning operators
Edit marks used by SEIN employees to indicate the return requires redaction or restriction
IRS stamps and employee names
Exception: CI employee names cannot be disclosed.
(2) If there is any doubt as to what can be disclosed, contact the TE/GE Analyst before making the document available for public inspection.
IRS Codes and Marks Not Disclosable
(1) Redact a document that is required to be made available for inspection under IRC 6104(a) or IRC 6104(b) of any coding information that indicates specific facts about the organization’s or trust’s liability or possible liability for any tax, interest or penalty, that was added to the first page of the return during processing.
(2) Some codes and marks used by the IRS are required by IRC 6033 and IRC 6034 and must be redacted before making the document available for public inspection. Do not disclose the following:
IRS marks or data provided by the filer that indicate a delinquency status, Compliance or Collection activities, e.g., the word delinquent stamped or written on the first page of the return, or a Form 433-A, Form 656-A or request for an installment agreement.
Note: A received date "is not" an indication of delinquency status, nor are the word(s) “statute” or “statute cleared”.
IRS marks that indicate the return is under investigation, e.g., an audit stamp or the return was secured by field employees.
IRS marks that indicate a payment was received with the return, e.g., a stamped Received with Remittance, an amount written in green or purple, or a green or purple rocker.
Note: The payment voucher on e-file returns are IRS generated and are restricted.
The Y edit mark added to the return during Document Preparation. See IRM 3.20.12.3.13.6 Document Preparation - Editing.
Condition codes "D", "R", "V", or "X", entered by IRS employees.
Public Inspection of Certain Information Returns
(1) Under the authority of IRC 6104(b), information included on certain annual information returns of organizations and trusts that are exempt or seeking exempt status, or information required to be filed is to be made available for public inspection.
Note: The most commonly requested documents are identified in IRM 3.20.13.8, Commonly Requested Documents and Disclosure to the Public.
(2) This disclosure authority pertains to any information required to be filed by these organizations or trusts in accordance with IRC 6033 and IRC 6034.
(3) The amendments to IRC 6104(b) enacted by the Tax Reform Act of 1969 also authorized the disclosure of additional information required to be furnished to the IRS by these organizations and trusts after December 31, 1969.
(4) Before January 1, 1970, only information furnished on the following forms was required to be made available for public inspection under IRC 6104(b). This information is still available, upon request, to the extent that it hasn’t been destroyed in accordance to the NARA-approved Document 12990, Records Control Schedules.
Part II of Schedule A, Organization Exempt Under IRC 501(c)(3) (except Private Foundation) and IRC 501(e), 501(f), 501(k), 501(n) or 4947(a)(1) Nonexempt Charitable Trust.
Form 1120-H, U.S. Income Tax Return for Homeowners Associations, filed pursuant to IRC 6033(b) by certain exempt organizations.
Form 1041-A.
Form 990-T Redacting Procedures
(1) Form 990-T filed by organizations under Section 501(c)(3) and related documents are available for public inspection and redacted during the Imaging process. The clerks must ensure that all non-disclosable items are restricted or redacted before filling the request.
Note: Forms filed prior to August 17, 2006 aren’t open for public inspection.
(2) Form 990-T other than Section 501(c)(3) are not available for public inspection or disclosure.
(3) Form 990-T as described below are not available inspection or disclosure.
Line Description | Not available for Public Inspection |
---|---|
Backup Withholding | Backup Withholding (BUWH) |
Top of Form 990-T | 45R Only written at the top |
Credit for small employer health insurance premiums | Form 8941 attached |
CC INOLES SUBSECTION | State Colleges other than 501(c)(3) |
Other credits, adjustments, and payments | Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) |
(4) All information included with Form 990-T and related schedules can be disclosed, except for a limited number of forms. For disclosure and redacting instructions for Form 990-T imaged, see Exhibit 3.20.12-3, Form 990-T Schedules and Requested Attachments Open For Public Inspection.
(5) When Form 3800, General Business Credit, and Form 4466, Corporation Application for Quick Refund of Overpayment of Estimated Tax, are attached to Form 990-T they’re Open to Public Inspection.
(6) Before filling a Form 990-T request, you must verify that the organization is a IRC 501(c)(3) organization. Find this by researching the EO SS on Master File and Form 990-T. Refer to the procedures below.
Form 990-T Research to Determine 501(c)(3) StatusIf | And | Then |
---|---|---|
the SS code on Master File is IRC 501(c)(3), | Form 990-T, Box B (exempt under section) indicates SS code (c)(3) or is blank, | continue processing the request, if the return is available on SEIN. |
the SS code on Master File is IRC 501(c)(3), | Form 990-T, Box B (exempt under section) indicates SS code (c)(3) or is blank, and is unavailable on SEIN, | contact the TE/GE SPP Analyst by secure email and Carbon copy (Cc) TE/GE SPP Backup Analyst, SP P&A Analyst and P&A Operations Improvement Team (OIT) |
(7) When you identify a discrepancy between Master File (MF) and Form 990-T, the Entity Unit must do more research. They research the account on the EO/EP Determination System (EDS) to determine the correct SS. Refer to the procedures below. Form 990-T and Master File Discrepancies
If | And | Then |
---|---|---|
Form 990-T, box B displays a SS code 501(c)(3) or box B is blank and MF shows a different SS code, | Status code is other than 06, |
|
Form 990-T, Box B displays a SS code other than a 501(c)(3), but MF indicates the SS code is a 501(c)(3) organization, | Status code is other than 06, |
|
Form 5227 Redacting Procedures
(1) The PPA allows for the public disclosure of Form 5227 filed after January 1, 2007. These returns are imaged during normal processing and are not redacted during the Imaging process.
Note: Forms filed using prior revisions to 2007 are not disclosable.
(2) If a Form 4506-A is received requesting a copy of a Form 5227, any attachment requested by IRS (on Form 5227 and its instructions) will be disclosed if clearly labeled as the attachment relating to the line item and the line has an entry. If not clearly labeled and/or the line has no entry, it will not be disclosed. Attachments specifically listed in following two tables below, Form 5227 Attachments and Information Not Open to Public Inspection and Form 5227 Attachments and Information Open to Public Inspection, to be redacted/restricted.
Note: This applies no matter when imaged. The extraneous process does not apply to Form 5227.
(3) The following items is redacted or restricted by the TE/GE SPP Analyst prior to sending a copy of Form 5227 to the requester.Form 5227 Attachments and Information Not Open to Public Inspection
Form/Document/Information | Action and Additional Information |
---|---|
Schedule A, Distributions, Assets and Donor Information (Page 7 of Form 5227) | Restrict the entire page and any attached continuation pages of Schedule A and its early termination agreement (the title of this document and opening paragraphs would typically refer to early termination, liquidation, and dissolution of the trust.) |
Trust Instrument Document | Restrict entire document (usually filed with the initial return). A trust instrument can go by any of several titles (e.g., Trust Agreement, Trust Instrument, Indenture of Trust, Declaration of Trust, Deed of Trust), and can be part of a will (Last Will and Testament). |
Amended trust agreement | Restrict the entire document (asked for on Part VII, Section D, line 93.). Taxpayers may send in an amendment document (which may be entitled "Amendment to Trust" and may only be a page or two. |
Schedule K-1 and any K-1 continuation pages and transmittals | Restrict |
Form 926, Return by a U.S. Transferor of Property to a Foreign Corporation | Restrict |
Form 1041-ES, Estimated Income Tax for Estates and Trusts | Restrict |
Form 8582, Passive Activity Loss Limitations (attached behind Form 5227) | Restrict |
Form 8621, Information Return by a Shareholder of a Passive Foreign Investment Company or Qualified Electing Fund | Restrict |
Form 8868, Application for Automatic Extension of Time To File an Exempt Organization Return | Restrict |
Any separate attachments referring to contributor/donor information | Restrict |
Letters to and from IRS | Restrict |
SSNs listed anywhere on the form or attachments | Redact |
(4) The following is a list of Form 5227 attachments and information that are Open to Public Inspection. Items can be disclosed when attached to Form 5227.Form 5227 Attachments and Information Open to Public Inspection
Forms and Schedules | Action and Additional Information |
---|---|
Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, Schedules (B, C, D, E etc.) | Disclosed |
Form 1041, U.S. Income Tax Return for Estates and Trusts, Schedule D | Disclosed |
Form 4797, Sales of Business Property | Disclosed, redact SSN if found. |
Form 4952, Investment Interest Expense Deduction | Disclosed |
Form 6781, Gains and Losses from Section 1256 Contracts and Straddles | Disclosed |
Form 8949, Sales and Other Dispositions of Capital Assets | Disclosed |
(5) Form 5227 images aren’t available to the public on digital data.
Form 4720 Redacting Procedures
(1) Form 4720 is imaged during normal processing, but they are not redacted during the Imaging process.
(2) If a Form 4506-A is received requesting a copy of a Form 4720 research to determine they have Form 990-PF filing requirement. If the filing requirement for Form 990-PF is present, the Form 4720 is open to public inspection. Any attachment requested by IRS on Form 4720 and its instructions, will be disclosed, if clearly labeled as the attachment relating to the line item and the line has an entry. If not clearly labeled or the line has no entry, it will not be disclosed. The extraneous process does not apply to Form 4720.
(3) If the filing requirement for Form 990-PF is not present, Form 4720 is not open to public inspection. Respond as unavailable.
Form 8886-T Redacting Procedures
(1) Form 8886-T is not imaged or redacted during normal processing.
(2) If a Form 4506-A is received requesting a copy of a Form 8886-T, it is open to public inspection. Any attachment requested by IRS on Form 8886-T and its instructions, will be disclosed, if clearly labeled as the attachment relating to the line item and the line has an entry. If not clearly labeled or the line has no entry, it will not be disclosed. The extraneous process does not apply to Form 8886-T.
How Requests Are Received
(1) Requests for public inspection or copies of returns generally come from the following sources:
General Public - (grant seekers, watchdog groups)
Communications and Media Personnel
(2) The proper form to file when submitting a request for copies of EO returns is Form 4506-A.
(3) A request may also be received in one of the following formats:
Form 4506-A
A letter
Telephone call
EEFax
(4) The requester may:
Ask to inspect a return
Request a copy of a return
Request digital data
EO RAIVS – Filling Requests for the Public
(1) Form 4506-A requests are for photocopies of tax forms and return information in the EO RAIVS unit. Requests come from taxpayers or their representatives, federal agencies or other third parties by mail or EEFax.
(2) Requests must be submitted on a Form 4506-A or by letter if media.
(3) SEIN is the system that allows viewing of the redacted image of an EO return.
Note: Only use the redacted version of SEIN.
(4) After researching SEIN and there are more than one return for the same tax period, only provide the latest return received by IRS and its latest refilm pages, if applicable.
(5) Secure copies of the returns requesting any of the following in the table below, by contacting TE/GE SPP Analyst, Mail Stop 1110 or by sending secure email.
When contacting TE/GE SPP Analyst for request, include only one requester per secure email.
Include a copy of the Form 4506-A or letter.
For media request, indicate the contact process was completed.
Returns and Schedules |
---|
Schedule B |
MeF Returns not located in SEIN
|
Ruling date is after the IRS Received Date and prior status is 97 |
Form 5227
|
Form 990 with 527 box checked and determined to be a 527 POL through IDRS research and Schedule B is requested |
Form 990-EZ with 527 box checked and determined to be a 527 POL through IDRS research and Schedule B is requested |
Form 4720 with a Form 990-PF filing requirement |
Form 8886-T |
Request requires using the unredacted copy, such as a special request in IRM 3.20.13.9.4, Types of Request Received. |
(6) When errors are discovered, use the following.
If | Then |
---|---|
the form wasn’t redacted or restricted during the Imaging process, | the clerk must redact or restrict all information that can’t be disclosed to the public by following:
|
the form wasn’t redacted or restricted by the TE/GE SPP HQ Analyst, | give feedback for the TE/GE SPP HQ Analyst by contacting the SP P&A staff. |
you have an unauthorized disclosure, | report it to the SP P&A staff. |
Social Security Numbers (SSNs) on non IRC 527 returns listed anywhere on the form or attachments, | redact the SSNs. Note: Although the IRS is not required to redact the SSNs, redacting it protects the holder of the SSN from possible adverse consequences by the release of personal information to the public. |
SSNs are not redacted on 527 POL returns, | redact the SSNs. |
(7) Returns filed electronically using MeF are identified by the DLN (File Location Code 92 or 93).
MeF returns can’t be requested using ESTAB.
MeF returns can be viewed and printed in SEIN in redacted version.
If the MeF return isn’t present in SEIN, do not print through the EUP. If research determines the request can be filled, determine the number of disclosable pages by accessing EUP. See IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2) for disclosure requirements.
If determined copies are needed (after one 14-day suspense period and the image isn’t in SEIN), contact the TE/GE SPP Analyst to get the redacted version of the form.
Exception: For Media requests, MeF not found on SEIN, suspension period not required. Send to TE/GE SPP Analyst.
For billing and payment instructions, see IRM 3.20.13.9.5 through IRM 3.20.13.9.5.4.
MeF returns not located in SEIN, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4 (2).
(8) If you can’t locate the return on either SEIN or the TE/GE SPP HQ Analyst.
Request the paper document from Files using ESTAB.
When you receive the return, do not fill the request immediately.
See IRM 3.20.13.9.4 (2), for paper return required from files.
You are required to redact or restrict all information that can’t be disclosed to the public.
Researching the EOPC Payment Request Report
(1) Before any action is taken, all new requests must be verified against the EOPC Payment Request Report to determine if the requester has a balance due.
(2) IRS may request payment of required fees before performing any services necessary to reasonably estimate fees. We don’t fill new requests if the requester has a history of unpaid fees for prior requests, until paid in full.
(3) The report is located on the shared drive by accessing, S:\ODN\SP\DCO\Data Dept. 1\Team 35111\TEGE\EOPC Payment Request Rpt.xls.
(4) The report records requesters with payments received and includes all requesters with a balance due for copies of EO forms. The report is maintained in received date order under each year. Refer to the table below.
Note: For more specific information found on the EOPC Payment Request Report, see IRM 3.20.13.10.1, EOPC Payment Request Report.
If the requester | Then |
---|---|
isn’t listed, | follow normal case processing guidelines in IRM 3.20.13.9.3, Processing Form 4506-A Requests. |
is listed, and owes money, |
|
is listed and requester submits full payment or proof of payment, |
Note: If a new Form 4506-A is attached, detach and process as a new request. |
Processing Form 4506-A Requests
(1) After you research the EOPC Payment Request Report criteria, verify the following items are present and complete on Form 4506-A.
Note: When Form 4506-A is received from a foreign address, they must have the following items to fill the request. If any are missing, follow the Form 4506-A Research table below.
Requester's name and address
Organization's name
Type of form(s)
Tax period(s)
EIN.
If | Then |
---|---|
all of the following information is provided,
|
|
any of the above items are missing or incomplete on non-media requests, (i.e., EIN not provided, digits missing, doesn’t reflect anything on IDRS, etc.) |
|
any of the above items are missing or incomplete on media requests, AND information can’t be determined through basic IDRS research, or obtained from the FMRS as instructed in IRM 3.20.13.9.4.1, |
|
(2) When Form 4506-A is revised for ordering Form 990-T or Form 5227 returns, the fees listed, are applicable.
(3) Form 5227 is not available on digital data.
Complete Requests — Initial Research
(1) If all information is present, do the following in the Initial Research table below.
Note: When Form 4506-A is received from a foreign address and all information is present, follow the Initial Research table below.
Requester's name and address
Organization's name
Type of form(s)
Tax period(s)
EIN.
Note: Before you take the following steps, research SEIN for the return. The return may not have posted to MF at the time of the request, but may be located in SEIN and the request can be filled. Also, to determine whether to disclose a return and if the return isn’t found, see Exhibit 3.20.13-1 for a list of EO status codes.
If | Then |
---|---|
EIN is provided, |
|
EIN or name or both doesn’t match, |
|
the correct organization information is found for electronically filed return, |
|
the correct organization information is found for paper filed return, |
|
tax period(s) is found, |
|
a return isn’t located after checking the filing requirements on IDRS by researching BMFOLI or BMFOLT, refer to Exhibit 3.20.13-3 for filing requirements, |
|
there is no requester name or address provided on Form 4506-A, |
|
no contact name is provided, |
|
Incomplete Media Requests – Initial Research
(1) If the request is incomplete, perform the following actions: Incomplete Media Requests - Initial Research
If | Then |
---|---|
no EIN is provided, |
|
the organization's name isn’t provided, but the EIN is present, |
|
the requester doesn’t specify a tax period, |
|
there is no requester name or address provided on Form 4506-A, |
|
no contact name is provided, |
|
Types of Requests Received
(1) All requests for copies of returns must be submitted on Form 4506-A or letterhead (if from Media). Requests may be received through written, EEFaxed correspondence or by telephone.
Note: When Form 4506-A is received from a foreign address, follow the Types of Requests and Actions to Take table below to fill the request.
(2) The following are various type of requests we may receive and what steps to take to fill the request.
Note: For requests from the media, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4.1, Media Requests.
If | Then | |
---|---|---|
a telephone request is received, | inform requester Form 4506-A must be submitted before information can be provided. Explain a Form 4506-A must be completed for each EIN if more than one organization's returns are needed. No further action is required. Note: If a request is received with more than one EIN, fill the request. | |
telephone inquiries are received with questions regarding rules and regulations governing exempt organizations, | refer caller to the W&I CAS call site at 877-829-5500 and close. | |
written or EEFaxed correspondence is received, | process request following normal procedures. | |
Form 4506-A, Revision 12-2019, request or inquiry is for a copy of
| review the request (Form 4506-A or correspondence) to ensure "CSC” or “OSC" is notated. If not, then do the following:
| |
Form 4506-B, Request for a Copy of Exempt Organization IRS Application or Letter, is received, | route to Cincinnati.
| |
the requester asks for
and only Form 990-EZ is filed, (or vice versa) |
| |
the requester asks for
and only Form 990-N is filed, Note: Form 990-N is identified by doc code 89 (the 4th and 5th digits of the DLN) |
| |
the requester asks for copies of multiple years or tax periods or both, |
| |
the requester asks for
|
| |
there is any doubt as to what is being requested, |
| |
the requester asks for digital data, |
| |
the requester asks for Form 1120-POL, U.S. Income Tax Return for Certain Political Organizations, |
| |
the requester asks for Political Organization return,
|
| |
the requester asks for Schedule B that’s filed with the following forms and meets the requirements to be filled,
Note: These items cannot be viewed in SEIN. |
Note: Contribution amounts can be disclosed. | |
the requester asks for the following forms with the 527 box checked and Schedule B is specifically requested,
|
| |
the requester asks for an electronically filed (MeF) return that isn’t located in SEIN, |
| |
a request (after research) requires paper returns to be ordered from files using ESTAB, Reminder: Research for prior or current status 97 must be done prior to requesting paper copy. |
| |
the requester asks for copies of specific pages of a form, |
| |
the requester asks for a form other than the following, and it is not in SEIN, but research shows it’s disclosable,
Exception: Form 990-PF request, Schedule B is disclosable. See IRM 3.20.13.8.2(4). |
| |
the requester asks for the following and research shows status 97,
|
| |
the requester asks for a form that reflects the Ruling Date after the IRS received date, | see IRM 3.20.13.9.3.1, Initial Research, EIN is provided. Ensure all data required by IRM 3.20.12 is restricted and redacted. | |
the requester asks only for a machine readable electronically filed (e-file/MeF) for the following forms,
| send Letter 3983-C and refer to the Bulk Download on TEOS, for 990 series requests 2017 and subsequent. | |
the requester asks for a machine readable electronically filed (e-file/MeF) along with other form types,
| fill the other form types, send Letter 3983-C , and refer to the Bulk Download on TEOS, for 990 series requests 2017 and subsequent. |
Note: If unable to fill the request(s) within 30 days from the EO RAIVS received date, issue a Letter 2645-C, Interim Letter. See IRM 3.20.13.7.1 for additional instructions.
(3) When a Form 4506-A is received from an officer of an exempt organization requesting a copy of their own EO return, provide a redacted copy of the return. Refer to the procedures outlined below.
Note: If a requester wants an unredacted copy of their own return they must complete Form 4506 and pay the $43.00 photocopy fee.
If | And | Then |
---|---|---|
the request is from an officer of an exempt organization requesting a copy of the organization's return, | the request is accompanied by a payment of $43.00 for each tax period listed, |
|
the request is from an officer of an exempt organization requesting a copy of the organization's return, | no payment is attached, |
|
Media Requests
(1) IRS must expedite process Form 990, Form 990-EZ, Form 990-PF, Form 990-T and Form 5227 requests from the Media.
Note: If Form 990-PF, see IRM 3.20.13.6, Clerk Responsibilities.
Form 990, Form 990-EZ, Form 990-PF, Form 990-T and Form 5227 media requests must be filled and closed within 14 business days after the EO RAIVS received date.
On the 10th business day you must determine if the request will be filled timely. If you determine the request won’t be filled and closed by the 14th business day you must contact the three FMRS to inform them of the delay and provide the date the request will be filled and closed.
(2) Media requests filled in Ogden may be submitted on the media's letterhead or Form 4506-A. All media requests can be EEFaxed to the Exempt Organization Media Request Desk, located at the Ogden Submission Processing Campus. The EEFax number is 855-653-9144.
(3) You must contact the three FMRS:
When a media request is received.
To obtain confirmation the requester is considered media or non-media.
To obtain missing or incomplete information.
If the request is denied.
To inform them of any delays on the 10th business day and if you determine the request won’t be filled and closed by the 14th business day.
If the request can’t be filled and closed by the 14th business day after the EO RAIVS received date, then provide them the date the request will be filled and closed.
(4) Contact the three FMRS by email, if the request is from a:
News Media
Major National Media Outlet
Person with the news media in a foreign country
Caution: Don’t contact the media directly.
(5) Find FMRS contact information at the following website, https://irssource.web.irs.gov/CL/Lists/Communications/Media%20Relations.aspx under Helpful Links, "Media Determination Team for TEGE inquiries".
(6) The Media Specialist will:
Determine if the requester is considered media and inform the EO RAIVS designated point of contact.
Contact the requester to obtain missing or incomplete information if considered media and provide to EO RAIVS designated point of contact if received.
Send written notification to the requester if non-media.
Inform the EO RAIVS designated point of contact if non-media by written notification.
(7) If non-media, process the request using non-media instructions.
Note: The EO RAIVS designated point of contact will not inform requesters if non-media.
(8) All media requests must include the following information: Items that Must be Included on EOPC Requests
The name of the organization |
Specific tax years and Forms requested; Note: The request can’t state most recent or all available tax returns. |
Organization’s EIN |
If they request the returns be sent using courier services, they must provide the UPS account number. If an UPS account number is provided:
Otherwise, IRS will send the returns using the U.S. mail. |
Returns are destroyed six years after the end of the processing year as required in Document 12990 RCS 29, Item 66. Don’t provide years filed before 2016. Example: Returns filed in 2017 (no matter what tax year it is) are available in 2023. They are destroyed the end of January 2024, and no longer available to the public. |
(9) Refer to the procedures below when filling requests from the media. Also, see IRM 3.20.13.9, through IRM 3.20.13.9.4.Media Requests
If | Then |
---|---|
you receive a media letterhead request or Form 4506-A claiming to be:
|
|
the request is missing information or there is any doubt as to what the request is for, |
|
a telephone inquiry from the Media is received, | tell requester to complete Form 4506-A and EEFax or mail to the address on the form instructions. Also explain that one Form 4506-A must be completed per EIN if they are requesting more than one organization's returns. Note: If a request is received follow the instructions in this section. If more than one EIN is present, fill the request. |
Congressional or Senate Finance Committee Requests
(1) Congressional requests or requests from LA are worked by the unit designated employee. Requests may come in using a memo or on Form 4506-A hand carried from the manager. These procedures were established between LA and OSPC as to how Congressional requests are handled and when to expedite the request.
(2) The EOPC Unit serves primarily as a support function in securing returns. All copies secured are redacted.
Legislative Affairs (LA) Requests on Behalf of a Member of Congress (MC) or Senate
(1) LA may request copies of returns on behalf of the MC or Senate when the request is related to the completion of their duties as a member of the Senate or Congress. When a MC contacts LA to request Form 990 in furtherance of the legislative purposes the following procedures apply.
LA will attempt to secure the Form 990 using non-IRS sources such as Guidestar. If the return isn’t available on non-IRS sources (such as Guidestar), LA prepares a written request (may not be a Form 4506-A) listing the name and address of the organization(s) and the returns being sought.
If more information is needed in order to complete the request, LA will contact the MC to obtain the necessary information or request a completed Form 4506-A.
The request is EEFaxed directly to the Operations Manager at the OSPC. The EEFax number is 855-653-9144. LA will also send a brief email to both the OSPC Operations Manager and SP HQ Program Manager stating the number of requests being sent to Ogden, the time frames for response and any special instructions that may be required.
In situations where expedited handling has been requested, the Ogden point of contact will call or email the LA contact person within two workdays of receiving a request for Form 990, and provide an estimate of the timing for delivery of the requested returns.
Upon receipt of the filled request from Ogden, LA will inspect the documents included in the response to ensure that the MC's request was properly honored, and to ensure that the response doesn’t include any unauthorized disclosures.
Legislative Affairs Requests on Behalf of a Constituent
(1) When a MC contacts LA to request exempt organization returns on behalf of a constituent, the following procedures apply.
LA will advise the MC that a Form 4506-A must be completed and submitted to Ogden. LA will provide the MC with an electronic version of Form 4506-A or by EEFax.
The MC will have to decide whether to complete the Form 4506-A for the constituent, or provide the Form 4506-A to the constituent for completion and submission to Ogden.
LA will inform the MC that other alternative and possibly quicker options are available to secure copies of EO returns such as Guidestar. The MC will decide whether to use an alternative source to try to retrieve the Form 990, or provide the constituent with the information about using an alternative source.
In this situation, EOPC will process the Form 4506-A in the usual manner. No special or expedited handling is required.
Internal Requests
(1) An internal request may be submitted by anyone who works for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and is requesting the data in their official capacity. These requests must be submitted either by memo or on Form 4506-A. Internal Requests
If | Then |
---|---|
the request is from the EO Liaison to State Charity Officials, |
Note: The returns are only requested when expedited service is needed. Otherwise the State files the request. |
the request is from the IRC 6104 notice coordinator, |
Note: The returns are only requested when expedited service is needed. Otherwise the State files the request. |
the request is from an employee in HQ or a Field Office, | process the request within 30 days. |
the request is from any other internal source and the requested returns aren’t more than six years old, | Inform the requester to enter an ESTAB request on IDRS or fill out Form 2275and EEFax to 855-312-0550. |
Requests with Extensions
(1) When a request for a copy of a return is received and IDRS research (see IDRS command code job aid) reveals that only an extension has been filed, refer to the procedures outlined below. Extension Procedures
If | Then |
---|---|
an extension (TC 460) has been granted and return can’t be located on SEIN, | send Letter 3983-C to inform the requester the return is unavailable and close. Caution: Do not inform the requester of the extension. Note: Any writing placed anywhere on a form by the filer regarding an extension is disclosable and doesn’t confirm whether IRS received, approved or denied an extension. Examples may include, "filed for extension", "extension granted". |
Other Scenarios
(1) The table below provides more scenarios where a return may or may not be available. Procedures are based on each individual situation and if the return in question can be secured.
If | Then |
---|---|
≡ ≡ ≡"≡ ≡"≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ |
|
the return has posted to the wrong EIN, |
|
a return has posted to the wrong tax period(s) |
|
the case can’t be closed within 30 days of the EO received date, | issue Letter 2645-C, Interim Letter, to the requester informing them more time is needed in order to fill the request. See IRM 3.20.13.7.1 for additional instructions. |
the return is an IRS prepared return (i.e., Substitute for Return (SFR) or Dummy Return), | send Letter 3983-C, inform the requester the return is unavailable and close. |
TC 59X Procedures
(1) When a TC 59X is present on the module, follow the procedures below for filling requests . Refer to Exhibit 3.20.13-6, Closing Code Definitions, for TC 59X.
If a TC 590 is present | Then |
---|---|
without a Closing Code (CC) or with a CC 75, | if the return is available and determined disclosable, fill the request per instructions in this IRM. If the return isn’t available, notify requester the return is unavailable using Letter 3983-C and close. |
with CC 14, | notify requester this organization is part of a group return and not required to file a separate return using Letter 3983-C and close. |
with CC 17 or 18, |
|
Form 4251 Charge-Out Procedures
(1) Form 4251, Return Charge-Out, is used to locate tax returns in a Campus or Federal Records Center File. It replaces the tax return in the file and provides information as to the location of the return. It also serves as a routing sheet and is used to recharge the document from one user to another.
(2) A Form 4251 will be received that indicates the return isn’t available or charged-out to another area. If this occurs, refer to the following procedures.
If a Form 4251 | Then |
---|---|
is received without the return or indicates return is charged out to another area, |
|
indicates the return(s) is charged out to Statistics of Income (SOI), |
|
indicates the return is charged out to Examination or Area Office, |
|
is returned stating the return (tax year) has been destroyed, | Use Letter 3983-C and inform the requester the document has been destroyed. Note: Returns are destroyed six years after the end of the processing year. |
Fee Charges for Returns Open for Public Inspection
(1) An officer of an exempt organization that requests a copy of the organization's own unredacted EO return must pay a photocopy fee of $43.00 as listed on Form 4506. If they don’t want to pay the $43.00, then a redacted copy will be provided.
(2) Third party requests from commercial users must pay $.20 per page. For more information on Commercial Users , see IRM 11.3.5.2.1 and IRM 11.3.5.3.1 .
(3) All other third party requesters (educational institution, non-commercial scientific institution, or all other requesters) receive the first 100 pages free and pay $.20 per page after the first 100 pages.
These charges apply to the total number of pages requested, not per individual return.
If there is reason to believe requests are being submitted in a manner to avoid paying the $.20 per page after the first 100 free pages, combine the requests and charge as though it were one request.
Note: Enrolled agents are treated as any other representative and are charged for copies of returns as shown above.
(4) More information pertaining to appropriate charges for search, duplicating and certification services are located in IRM 11.3.5, Disclosure of Official Information - Fees, and IRM 3.5.20, Accounts Services - Processing Requests for Tax Return/Return Information.
Exceptions to Fee Charges
(1) The following third parties receive requests free of charge:
Congressional requests submitted through LA
Media requests
Washington, DC and other IRS offices
Note: If after inspection the requester wants a copy, these offices will assess the appropriate fee
.
Federal, state, local, foreign or international government agencies
Indian tribal governments
Billing Procedures for Copies of EO Returns
(1) Count the number of pages and compute the amount due based on the above fee schedule. After the amount due is determined, refer to the table below for instructions on when the requester must be billed for the balance due.
Note: When printing double sided, count one page for each page containing print on both sides.
(2) Record all actions taken on the request (Form 4506-A/correspondence) and IDRS.
(3) If the requester is billed, record the amount due, request date, etc., on the EOPC Payment Request Report. This information must be recorded the same day the Form 2860 is sent to the requester.Billing Instructions
If | Then |
---|---|
the request is for digital data orders and a partial payment is received with the original request, |
|
the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ |
|
the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ |
|
the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ |
|
(4) If a payment is received, refer to IRM 3.20.13.9.5.4, Billing and Payment Processing Procedures, and IRM 3.20.13.9.6, Refunding Photocopy Fees for Copies of Paper EO Returns, for payment processing procedures.
Form 2860 Instructions
(1) When preparing a Form 2860, Document Transmittal and Bill, requesting payment for copies of EO returns, refer to the procedures outlined below.
On Form 2860, Part 1, Requester’s name and address, notate "For Deposit to RACS Account 20–3220", current date in MM/DD/YYYY format, Building address, Mail Stop, and your IDRS employee number on the bottom left of Form 2860, Part 3.
Include any payments previously received on Form 2860.
Send Parts 1 and 2 of Form 2860 with copies of return, if balance due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡.
Only send Form 2860 and Letter 3983-C, if amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡.
Staple Part 3 of Form 2860 to front of case file and annotate action taken on the request (Form 4506-A/correspondence) and IDRS.
Suspense case for 45 days ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡.
Billing and Payment Processing Procedures
(1) A suspense file is maintained in order of completion date for 45 days on initial payment requests ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡. If a partial payment is received after the first bill, a second bill is not sent.
(2) When a payment or no payment is received due to issuance of a Form 2860, refer to the procedures below.
Payment Processing ProceduresIf | And | Then |
---|---|---|
full payment is received within the 45-day suspense period, | the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡, or a request for digital data no matter the amount due, |
|
a partial payment is received within the 45-day suspense period, | the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡, or a request for digital data no matter the amount due, |
|
full or partial payment is not received within the initial 45-day suspense period, | the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡, or a request for digital data no matter the amount due, |
|
full or partial payment is received within the 45-day suspense period, | the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ and copies of returns were previously sent to the requester with initial billing, |
|
full or partial payment isn’t received within the 45-day suspense period, | the amount due is ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ and copies of returns were previously sent to the requester with initial billing, |
|
remittance is received after the 45-day suspense period, | no case is found, |
|
Refunding Photocopy Fees for Copies of Paper EO Returns
(1) It may be necessary to refund a requester’s payment when:
The photocopy fee is prepaid and a copy of the return can’t be provided;
Any portion of the photocopy fee was overpaid
The prepaid photocopy fee request is rejected.
A partial payment was received on an order with a balance due of ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡, no reply was received to the request for payment and the requester has requested the partial payment be refunded.
The Digital Data request is for years 2017 and subsequent.
(2) Refunds are initiated using the Photocopy Fee Refund System (PHOREF) which meets the National Standards Application (NSA) requirements. See user guide for PHOREF available in the unit from the local IT Systems Administrator or from the National RAIVS Analyst. Take the following actions when a refund must be issued.
Verify payment has posted
Rebatch and report time under 520-34000
Inform requester a refund will be issued within 60 days
(3) Annotate the refund amount on the original request (Form 4506-A/correspondence). The system will send the request to Accounting for processing. EO RAIVS will route the Form 4506-A to Accounting for review using Form 3210. When returned, file the original Form 4506-A and any other forms and authorizations.≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
(4) If a request for a refund is received, refer to the procedures outlined below.
Refund ProceduresIf | And | Then |
---|---|---|
the refund request is for a prepaid order, | the order hasn’t or can’t be filled, |
Note: All time is reported under 520-34000. |
the refund request is for a prepaid order that was previously shipped to the requester, | the requester states the wrong returns were provided, | inform requester a refund can’t be issued for returns that were previously sent to them. However, we will provide copies of the correct returns at no additional charge. |
Requests for Digital Data
(1) Electronic copies (images) of certain EO returns that are filed with the IRS are available on digital data. Returns imaged in 2017 and subsequent are available for bulk download on the Tax-Exempt Organization Search (TEOS).
(2) For years 2017 and subsequent, digital data will be referred to the bulk download available on TEOS and the payment will be refunded or be sent back to the taxpayer.
Send Letter 3983-C and refer taxpayer to bulk download on TEOS.
Refund payment if deposited.
Sent check back with Letter 3983-C if not deposited.
(3) A complete set is one year's worth of data from January through December. Prior year tax periods may be included in current year data.
(4) Returns not available on digital data are shown below.
Form 5227, Split-Interest Trust Information Return
Form 4720, Return of Certain Excise Taxes Under Chapters 41 and 42 of the Internal Revenue Code, filed with a Form 990-PF filing requirement
Form 8871, Political Organization Notice of Section 527 Status
Form 8872, Political Organization Report of Contributions and Expenditures
Form 8453-X, Political Organization Declaration for Electronic Filing of Notice Section 527 Status.
Note: Copies of Form 8871, Form 8872, can be accessed by requesters at the following website, https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/political-organizations. Requesters may also be able to locate Form 990 and Form 990-EZ IRC 527 (political) organizations on this website.
RAIVS Reports
(1) Various reports must be prepared on a weekly or monthly basis to provide information to the HQ staff. Those reports are described below.
Note: For more reporting requirements see IRM 3.30.124, Campus Monitoring Reports.
EOPC Payment Request Report
(1) The EOPC Payment Request Report, is maintained by EO RAIVS and time is reported under overhead codes. It is maintained in received date order, by year, and is used to record all payments received and billing information associated with Form 2860. The report is located on the shared drive by accessing, S:\ODN\SP\DCO\Data Dept. 1\Team 35111\TEGE\EOPC Payment Request Rpt.xls and includes:
Requester name
TIN
Date the request was received
Form type
Tax years requested
Number of pages≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡ ≡
Amount due
Date the first bill was issued
Payment amount received
Payment received date
Remaining balance due
No response date (45 day suspense period end date)
Closing date
Remarks - Include employee IDRS number of the clerk who issued the balance due letters and any comments
(2) The report must be updated immediately when requests reflect a payment was received, based on the response to billing inquiries and when bills are issued.
Note: Authorization to the shared drive is limited to the EO RAIVS designated employees.
OSC RAIVS Inventory Report
(1) The OSC RAIVS Inventory Report records the number of requests received and closed for both current and prior years in a calendar year. It doesn’t include the number of forms copied. It is maintained by EO RAIVS and time is reported under overhead codes.
(2) This report is completed by close of business every Friday for the current week and available on a shared drive where the information can be updated as needed. The report is located on the shared drive by accessing, https://organization.ds.irsnet.gov/sites/WICASSpDco/RAIVS/RAIVSInventory/Forms/AllItems.aspx.
(3) The OSC RAIVS Inventory Report for each month must include the following information:
Beginning Inventory
Adjustment
Weekly Receipts
Weekly Closures
Ending Inventory
Controlled Inventory
Uncontrolled Inventory
Weekly Overage
Overage (1-30, 31-60 and greater than 60 days)
EO Status Codes
(1) Use the following table to determine whether to disclose a return based on status code and the response to provide to the filer if the return isn’t found.
Code | Description | Should the Request be filled? | Response if Return not Found | If Filed, Is the Return available on digital data from IRS? |
---|---|---|---|---|
00 or blank | EO section established without a status. | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
01 | Unconditional Exemption – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
02 | Conditioned Exemption – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
06 | State University Filing 990-T – Active | See IRM 3.20.13.8.6. | Not Open for Public Inspection | No |
07 | Church Filing a Form 990-T – Active | See IRM 3.20.13.8.6. | Not Open for Public Inspection | No |
10 | Pre-Examination of Church – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
11 | School Certification – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
12 | A Formal Exemption Not Granted –
| Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable |
|
18 | Temp. Revocation required to file Form 990-PF & Form 1041 – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
19 | Revocation Private FDN required to file Form 990-PF and Form 1120 – Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
20 | Termination (out of business) – Inactive | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Not Exempt | Yes |
21 | Unable to locate – Inactive/Active | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
22 | Revocation – Inactive | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Terminated | No |
23 | 507(a) Termination – | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
24 | 507(b)(1)(A) Termination – | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
25 | 507(b)(1)(B) Termination – | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
26 | Termination Merger — Inactive | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Term/Not EO | Yes |
28 | No longer a member of a group ruling | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
29 | Group Ruling has been dissolved | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
30 | Churches voluntarily file Form 990 | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
31 | Small organizations other than Private Foundations | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
32 | (Obsolete January 1, 2008) | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
33 | Foreign Private Foundation described in IRC 4948(b) | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
34 | 527 Political Organization | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
35 | Canadian Charity without Foundation Classification | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
36 | Non IRC 501(c)(3), (9) or (17) Filers - No official exemption | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Unavailable | Yes |
40 | Return filed Application pending, no exemption — | Yes. If filed, fill request. | Not EO | Yes |
41 | No reply to solicitation - no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
42 | Extension Filed, no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
70 | Denied - inactive - no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
71 | Incomplete Form 1023 /Form 1023-EZ /Form 1024 - no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
72 | Refusal to Rule, no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
97 | Revocation of tax exempt status - no TC 150 filed for three consecutive years Forms 990, 990-EZ and 990-PF Note: These forms may be blocked from viewing due to the revocation. | Yes. If the request is for tax years filed in 2017 and subsequent, see IRM 3.20.13.9.4(2), Types of Requests and Actions to Take If/Then, for additional instructions. | Inform the requester the return is unavailable Note: the organization is no longer recognized as a tax-exempt organization. | No |
98 | Terrorist Organization – no exemption | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Unavailable | No |
99 | Dump code - No exemption (prior EO status codes 22, 41 or 70-72) | No. If filed, DON’T fill request. | Not EO | No |
EO SS Codes
SS Code | Classification Code | Type of Exempt Organization | IRC Code |
---|---|---|---|
01 | 1 | Governmental Instrumentality | IRC 501(c)(1) |
02 | 1 | Single Parent Title holding corporation | IRC 501(c)(2) |
03 | 1 | Charitable corporation | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 2 | Educational organization | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 3 | Literary organization | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 4 | Organization to prevent cruelty to animals | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 5 | Organization to prevent cruelty to children | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 6 | Organization for public safety testing | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 7 | Religious organization | IRC 501(c)(3) |
03 | 8 | Scientific organization | IRC 501(c)(3) |
04 | 1 | Civic league | IRC 501(c)(4) |
04 | 2 | Local association of employees | IRC 501(c)(4) |
04 | 3 | Social welfare organization | IRC 501(c)(4) |
05 | 1 | Agricultural organization | IRC 501(c)(5) |
05 | 2 | Horticultural organization | IRC 501(c)(5) |
05 | 3 | Labor organization | IRC 501(c)(5) |
06 | 1 | Board of trade | IRC 501(c)(6) |
06 | 2 | Business league | IRC 501(c)(6) |
06 | 3 | Chambers of commerce | IRC 501(c)(6) |
06 | 4 | Real estate board | IRC 501(c)(6) |
07 | 1 | Pleasure, social and recreation club | IRC 501(c)(7) |
08 | 1 | Fraternal beneficiary society or association | IRC 501(c)(8) |
09 | 1 | Voluntary employees' beneficiary association Non-Governmental | IRC 501(c)(9) |
09 | 2 | Voluntary employees' beneficiary association Governmental | IRC 501(c)(9) |
10 | 1 | Domestic fraternal society and association | IRC 501(c)(10) |
11 | 1 | Teachers retirement fund association | IRC 501(c)(11) |
12 | 1 | Benevolent life insurance association | IRC 501(c)(12) |
12 | 2 | Mutual ditch or irrigation company | IRC 501(c)(12) |
12 | 3 | Mutual or cooperative telephone company | IRC 501(c)(12) |
12 | 4 | Organization like those on three preceding lines | IRC 501(c)(12) |
13 | 1 | Burial association | IRC 501(c)(13) |
13 | 2 | Cemetery company | IRC 501(c)(13) |
14 | 1 | Credit union | IRC 501(c)(14) |
14 | 2 | Other mutual corporation or association | IRC 501(c)(14) |
15 | 1 | Mutual insurance company or association other than life/marine | IRC 501(c)(15) |
16 | 1 | Corporation financing operation | IRC 501(c)(16) |
17 | 1 | Supplemental unemployment benefit Trust or plan | IRC 501(c)(17) |
18 | 1 | Employee funded pension trust created before June 25, 1959. | IRC 501(c)(18) |
19 | 1 | Post or organization of war veterans | IRC 501(c)(19) |
20 | 1 | Legal service | IRC 501(c)(20) |
21 | 1 | Black lung benefit trust | IRC 501(c)(21) |
22 | 1 | Multi-employer pension plan | IRC 501(c)(22) |
23 | 1 | Veterans association founded before 1880. | IRC 501(c)(23) |
24 | 1 | Trust described in IRC 4049 of ERISA | IRC 501(c)(24) |
25 | 1 | Multiple parent Title holding corporation | IRC 501(c)(25) |
26 | 1 | State sponsored high risk health insurance organization | IRC 501(c)(26) |
27 | 1 | State sponsored workers' compensation insurance | IRC 501(c)(27) |
28 | 1 | National Railroad Retirement Investment Trust | IRC 501(c)(28) |
29 | 1 | Co-op health insurance issuer | IRC 501(c)(29) |
40 | 1 | Apostolic and religious organization | IRC 501(d) |
50 | 1 | Cooperative hospital service organization | IRC 501(e) |
60 | 1 | Cooperative service organization of operating education organization | IRC 501(f) |
Filing Requirements
Codes | Description | Required to File | Response if Return Not Found |
---|---|---|---|
01 | Gross receipts exceeding $25,000, $50,000 for 2010 and subsequent forms | Yes | Unavailable |
02 | Gross Receipts under $25,000, $50,000 for 2010 and subsequent forms | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
03 | Group Return Filer | No. If filed, send. | Unavailable |
04 | 501(c)(21) Filing 990-BL |
| Not Open to Public Inspection |
06 | 501(c) Church | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
07 | 501(c)(1) Government Instrumentality | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
09 | Denied, failed to establish | If filed, Don’t send. | Unavailable |
13 | Religious organization | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
14 | Instrumentality State Political | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
88 | Account currently inactive, return not required to be mailed or filed. | If filed, send. | Unavailable |
EO Filing Requirement Codes
Code | Definition |
---|---|
00 | Not required to file |
01 | Required to file Form 990 (Gross receipts over $25,000, $50,000 for 2010 and subsequent forms) |
02 | Not required to file Form 990 (Gross receipts of $25,000 or less, $50,000 for 2010 and subsequent forms) |
03 | Dummy Entity (group return filed) |
04 | Not required to file - (filing Form 990-BL) |
05 | Reserved for programming use |
06 | Not required to file (Church) |
07 | Not required to file (exempt under 501(c)(1)) |
13 | Not required to file (religious organization) |
14 | Instrumentalities of States or Political Subdivisions not required to file |
55 | Reserved for programming use |
88 | Account currently inactive, return not required to be mailed or filed |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
0 | Not required to file |
1 | Required to file Form 990-T |
2 | Not required to file annually (Pension Trust 401(a)) |
5 | Reserved for programming use |
8 | Account currently inactive, return not required to be mailed or filed |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
0 | Not required to file |
1 | Required to file Form 5227 |
2 | Required to file Form 5227 and may also file Form 1041 |
5 | Reserved for programming use |
8 | Account currently inactive. Return not required to be mailed or filed. |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
0 | Not required to file |
1 | Required to file Form 990-PF |
2 | Revoked - Required to file Forms 990-PF and 1120. |
5 | Reserved for programming use. |
8 | Account currently inactive. Return not required to be mailed or filed. |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
0 | Return not required to be mailed or filed |
1 | Filing requirement generated when filed - not required to file annually |
5 | Reserved for programming use |
8 | Account currently inactive. Return not required to be mailed or filed |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
0 | Not required to be filed |
1 | Filing requirement generated when filed - not required to file annually |
5 | Reserved for programming use |
8 | Account currently inactive. Return not required to be mailed or filed |
Code | Definition |
---|---|
00 | Return not required to be mailed or filed |
01 | Forms 1120/1120-A required to be filed. (Required to be mailed in the month in which the corporations fiscal year ends.) |
02 | Form 1120-S required |
03 | Form 1120-L required |
04 | Form 1120-PC required |
06 | Form 1120-F required |
07 | Form 1120 required to be filed |
09 | Form 1120-POL required. Return not required to be mailed. No FTD mail-out |
10 | Form 1120-H required |
11 | Form 1120-ND required |
14 | Subsidiary Organization. Return not required to be mailed or filed |
15 | Form 1120-FSC required |
16 | Form 1120-DF required |
17 | Form 1120-RIC required |
18 | Form 1120-REIT required |
19 | Form 1120 Personal Service Corp. required |
55 | Reserved for programming use |
88 | Account currently inactive. Return not required to be mailed or filed. |
Abbreviations for Commonly Recurring Words
Recurring word | Abbreviation | Recurring word | Abbreviation | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Agency/Agencies | AGCY |
| Home Owners Association | HOA |
Agricultural/ | AGRI |
| Industrial | INDL |
Alumni | ALUM |
| Industry/ | IND |
Amalgamated | AMAL |
| Incorporated | INC |
American/s | AMER |
| Information | INFO |
Association/s | ASSN |
| Institute/s | INST |
Associates or Associated | ASSOC |
| International | INTL |
Auxiliary/ | AUX |
| Insurance | INS |
Avenue | AVE |
| Irrevocable | IRREV |
Apartments | APT |
| Junior/s | JR |
Beneficiary | BNFRY |
| Legion/s | LGN |
Benevolent | BEN |
| Library/Libraries | LIBR |
Building/s | BLDG |
| Manufacturing | MFG |
Campaign | CMPG |
| Management | MGMT |
Cemetery | CeM |
| Medical | MED |
Center/s | CTR |
| Memorial/s | MEM |
Charitable | CHAR |
| Ministry | MNSTR |
Charitable Remainder Annuity Trust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CRAT |
| Mountain | MTN |
Charitable Lead Annuity Trust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CLAT |
| Non-exempt Charitable Trust | NECT |
Charitable Remainder Trust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CRT |
| National/s | NATL |
Charitable Remainder Unitrust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CRUT |
| Organization/s | ORG |
Charitable Lead Trust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CLT |
| Parent Teacher Association | PTA |
Charitable Lead Unitrust Note: Spell out completely if enough space is available. If sufficient space isn’t available, then and only then abbreviate | CLUT |
| Parent Teacher Organization | PTO |
Circle /Circles | CIR |
| Partner | PTR |
Coalition | COAL |
| Partnership | PTRSP |
College/s | COLL |
| Political Action Committee | PAC |
Committee/s | COM |
| Representative | REPR |
Commission/s | COMM |
| Republican | REP |
Community/ | COM |
| Research | RES |
Company/ | CO |
| Resource/s | RSC |
Cooperative/Co-operative | COOP |
| Retirement | RTMT |
Corporation/s | CORP |
| Revocable | REV |
Council/s | COUN |
| Rotary | ROT |
County/Counties | CNTY |
| Remainder | REM |
Credit Union | CU |
| Saint/s | ST |
Democrat/Democratic | DEM |
| Scholarship/s | SCHOL |
Department/s | DEPT |
| Senior/s | SR |
Development/s/ | DEV |
| Service/s | SVC |
District/s | DIST |
| Special/s | SPC |
Doctor/s | DR |
| Street/s | STR |
Education/ | ED |
| Society/ | SOC |
Elementary/ | ELEM |
| Student/s | STU |
Employee/s | EMP |
| Testamentary | TEST |
Enterprise/s | ENT |
| Technology | TECH |
Estate/s | EST |
| Trust/s | TR |
Endowment/s | END |
| Trustee | TTEE |
Environment/ | ENVI |
| Under the Will of or Under Will | UW |
Electrical | ELEC |
| United States | US |
Family/Families | FAM |
| University/Universities | UNIV |
Federation/s | FED |
| Veteran/s | VET |
For the Benefit of | FBO |
| Veterans of Foreign Wars | VFW |
Foundation/s | FDN |
| Voluntary Employee Benefit Association | VEBA |
Fund/s | FD |
| Volunteer | VOL |
Fraternal | FRTL |
| Young Men's Christian Association | YMCA |
Fraternity | FRAT |
| Young Women's Christian Association | YWCA |
Group/s | GRP |
|
| |
Government/ | GOV |
|
| |
Historic/Historical | HIST |
|
| |
Hospital | HOSP |
Closing Code Definitions
Closing Code | Definition |
---|---|
TC 590-75 | Not liable for return |
TC 590-14 | Subsidiary filed under parent EIN |
TC 599-17 | Unprocessable return |
TC 599-18 | Return in process on or after Program Completion Date |
Saving a PDF version of an SEIN Image on a Local PC, Redact/Restrict in PDF and Printing in PDF
(1) Follow the steps to save a PDF of an SEIN Image on your local PC.
Steps | Saving a PDF |
---|---|
1 | Log into SEIN |
2 | Search for and select an image. |
3 | Left click on "Print" and select the PDF printer "Microsoft Print to PDF" |
4 | Left click on "Print" |
5 | Rename file name |
6 | Save |
7 | Review document for all pages. If missing pages, then
|
(2) Steps for redacting or restricting in PDF.
Note: If no redaction or restriction is required, then print.
(3) If redaction is required, do the following:
Steps | Redaction |
---|---|
1. | Choose Tools. |
2. | Go to Protect & Standardize and select Redact. Note: A tool bar will appear with options to perform the redaction process.
Note: This setup only needs to be done once. |
3. | Click on Mark for Redaction.
|
4. | Highlight areas to be redacted. Note: This will highlighted in white and give the appearance of redacting, but is not redacted until you click on “Apply.” |
5. | Click Apply. Note: This will always ask, “Are you sure you want to continue”? |
6. | Click OK. Note: By clicking OK, it will permanently be removed. Click “OK” if you are sure. |
7. | A Save Sanitized Document box will display. Note: The File name will show Redacted at the end of the file name. |
8. | Rename file. |
9. | Click Save. |
(4) If blank, restricted, EUP header only page or page requiring restriction is identified, do the following:
Steps | Restriction of Blank, EUP Header only or Entire Page |
---|---|
1. | Choose Tools |
2. | Go to Create & Edit.
|
3. | Highlight the pages for the request.
|
4. | Click on File and Save As. |
5. | File Name.
|
(5) Printing in Adobe PDF
Steps | Printing in Adobe PDF |
---|---|
1. | Click on File and Print |
2. | Select the printer from the drop down menu |
3. | Review the document in the Scale section to ensure all pages will print in full. If not, click the “Fit” option. |
4. | Click Print |
Note: Ensure all required items are redacted and restricted on the printed copy before sending request. Once printed, delete file.