FAQs

What is a 501c4?

To be tax-exempt as a social welfare organization described in Internal Revenue Code (IRC) section 501(c)(4), an organization must not be organized for profit and must be operated exclusively to promote social welfare.

To be operated exclusively to promote social welfare, an organization must operate primarily to further the common good and general welfare of the people of the community (such as by bringing about civic betterment and social improvements). For example, an organization that restricts the use of its facilities to employees of selected corporations and their guests is primarily benefiting a private group rather than the community and, therefore, does not qualify as a section 501(c)(4) organization.

Seeking legislation germane to the organization's programs is a permissible means of attaining social welfare purposes. Thus, a section 501(c)(4) social welfare organization may further its exempt purposes through lobbying as its primary activity without jeopardizing its exempt status. An organization that has lost its section 501(c)(3) status due to substantial attempts to influence legislation may not thereafter qualify as a section 501(c)(4) organization. In addition, a section 501(c)(4) organization that engages in lobbying may be required to either provide notice to its members regarding the percentage of dues paid that are applicable to lobbying activities or pay a proxy tax. For more information, see Lobbying Issues PDF .

The promotion of social welfare does not include direct or indirect participation or intervention in political campaigns on behalf of or in opposition to any candidate for public office. However, a section 501(c)(4) social welfare organization may engage in some political activities, so long as that is not its primary activity.

Other examples of 501c4s are:

The most common organizations with a 501(c)(4) designations are those active in politics, lobbying, and advocacy work. Some classic examples include volunteer fire departments, AARP, Miss America Organization, and community service clubs like Kiwanis, Rotary, and Lions Clubs.

Why could this be considered a PAC?

Occasionally, one may hear a 501c4 to be recognized as a PAC. If this occurs, it is because they are referring to a Political Advocacy Committee, and not a Political Action Committee. The primary difference is that a Political Action Committee is a tool used to support candidates and campaigns. Political Advocacy Committees however, do not directly contribute to the campaigns of individuals or support candidates as their primary activity. They advocate for specific issues and legislation. See above.

Does my money go towards political campaigns?

No, our organization only funds advocacy efforts associated with our legislative agenda. Candidates will not recieve support or campaign assistance from For Which It Stance. This does not include, however, candidate and incumbent involvement in our educational content or their involvement in speaking engagements for events such as the State Posterity Dinner.

What kind of education do you provide?

We provide educational opportunities specifically crafted to give historical context and understanding to current legislation, explanations of governmental processes and jurisdiction, and to improve specific outreach and advocacy skills. You can learn more by visiting our Education and Advocacy page.

What are the benefits to becoming a member?

Our membership is about empowerment. Becoming a member empowers you with helpful information about your government and your community while also providing an opportunities for you to become a strong advocate for your voice. You can learn more abut membership on our Becoming a Member page.

What is your data privacy policy?

Protecting your data is incredibly improtant to us. Our app is powered by a third party call Disciple Media which also goes far to protect your data (login credentials, etc.). You can review their data and privacy policy here. We also include additional questions as a part of our engagement through the platform. You can learn more about our policies regarding that data here.