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IRS Nonprofit Search

How to use the IRS's free Tax Exempt Organization Search, what it tells you, how much of your gift you can deduct, and a calculator.

Updated November 4, 2026. Free, no sign-up; everything runs in your browser and nothing you type is stored.

IRS nonprofit search charitable deduction calculator

AGI ($)Cash to public charities ($)Cash to private foundations ($)Itemizing?Filing statusTax rate (%)

Deductible this year

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–Tax saved

–Not deducted this year

How to use the IRS nonprofit search

The IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) on IRS.gov lets you check, for free, whether an organization can receive tax-deductible contributions (Pub. 78 data). You can also see whether its exemption was automatically revoked for not filing, its determination letter, its Form 990-N e-Postcard and copies of Form 990 returns. Search by name or EIN, and check the exact name, city and state, since charities often have similar names. Churches don't have to apply for recognition, so they may not appear.

Deduction limits

Cash gifts to public charities: up to 60% of AGI if you itemize (IRS Publication 526).
Gifts to private non-operating foundations and certain property gifts are limited to 30% or 20% of AGI.
Unused amounts carry forward for up to five years.
New for 2026: if you take the standard deduction, you can still deduct up to $1,000 of cash gifts to charity ($2,000 joint); donor-advised funds don't qualify.

Keep a receipt for any gift of $250 or more. More on giving tax-smart: qualified charitable distributions and itemized deductions.

Common questions

How do I check if a nonprofit is tax-exempt?

Use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search on IRS.gov, by name or EIN.

Can I deduct donations without itemizing in 2026?

Yes, up to $1,000 of cash gifts ($2,000 joint) to qualifying charities.

What is the charitable deduction limit?

Usually 60% of AGI for cash gifts to public charities if you itemize.

Sources

More paycheck and tax calculators: IRS Form 843 · IRS Mileage Rate · IRS Offer in Compromise · IRS Payment Plans

General information, not financial, tax or legal advice. Check important numbers with the official source before acting on them.