IF YOUR RELIGIOUS LEADERS ARE TELLING YOU HOW TO VOTE BEWARE: Religious leaders frequently have questions about the appropriate role of religion in politics and what activities houses of worship may undertake in the political process. This guide, based on information provided by two tax attorneys who are experts in non-profit law, is designed to answer some of the common questions about this subject. Churches and other non-profit organizations that hold 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status must abide by Internal Revenue Service regulations barring any involvement in partisan politics. The blanket prohibition concerns only races for public office, not issues. Religious leaders may speak out from the pulpit or in other forums on moral and political issues. However, churches and pastors may not endorse candidates for public office or advise congregants to vote for or against certain candidates. Federal tax law in this area is quite strict, and the IRS has indicated that it follows a “zero tolerance” policy toward violations. projectfairplay.org/facts/faq/
Posted on: Thu, 30 Oct 2014 11:50:21 +0000