Do I need 501(c)(3) status to use Fundraise Up?
You do not always need registered 501(c)(3) status to use Fundraise Up. Eligibility depends on your organization type, activities, location, and payment-provider requirements.
Organization eligibility
Organizations awaiting 501(c)(3) approval can use Fundraise Up during the application process. Until the organization receives approval, it must not represent donations as tax-deductible. Add a note to donation receipts explaining that the application is pending and donations are not currently tax-deductible.
Some 501(c)(4) and other nonprofit organizations may also be eligible. Political or advocacy activity can require additional review, restrictions, or disclosures. Contact Fundraise Up to confirm eligibility and any required configuration.
Eligibility to use Fundraise Up does not guarantee access to every feature or payment method. Availability can depend on the organization’s location, the supporter’s location and device, the connected payment provider, and the selected currency. Learn more about payment-method availability →
Tax-exempt status
Configure Fundraise Up to show accurate tax-deductibility information:
- In Dashboard, go to Settings > Account > Legal.
- Select My organization is a tax-exempt charitable organization or equivalent, and can issue tax-deductible donation receipts only if this statement applies to your organization.
- Clear the checkbox if your organization cannot issue tax-deductible donation receipts.
Clearing the checkbox hides the tax-deductibility message in Checkout Modal and Campaign Pages and removes income-tax wording from donation receipts.
Consult a qualified tax or legal adviser if you are unsure whether donations to your organization are tax-deductible.
Stripe nonprofit pricing
Stripe determines eligibility for its discounted nonprofit processing rates. Current requirements include:
- Registered nonprofit status with valid supporting documents.
- Operation in an eligible region.
- At least 80% of Stripe payment volume from tax-deductible donations.
A 501(c)(3) determination letter is one example of documentation that Stripe may request from a United States organization. Meeting these requirements does not guarantee approval.