How to Check Your 501(c)(3) Application Status: What to Expect & What to Do Next

Applying for federal tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) is a big milestone for your nonprofit. After you submit your application—either IRS Form 1023 or IRS Form 1023‑EZ—you’re naturally eager to know: What is the status of my application?

At 501c3Center.com, we’ve helped many organizations through this process and understand the timelines, how to check status, and what your next steps should be if things are taking longer than expected. Read on to learn about how to check your 501c3 application status.

1. Typical Timeline for 501(c)(3) Approval

For a smaller organization that qualifies for Form 1023-EZ, approval often comes in 2-4 months.
For the full Form 1023 (standard application), the review generally takes 6-9 months, though it may stretch further depending on IRS workload or external factors.
Note: These timelines are averages and not guaranteed. Delays can happen if the IRS requires additional information or if your application is complex.

2. How to Check Your Application Status

You do not need to call the IRS to check basic status. Here’s how to do it:

Use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search (TEOS) tool to see if your organization appears and what its exempt status is.
Monitor your email and mail for any IRS requests for more information—they will typically ask you to respond within a set timeframe.
Keep your internal records updated so you’re prepared if the IRS asks for clarification.

3. What the Status Updates Mean

Status	Meaning
“Submitted / Under Review”	Your application has been received and is in the queue.
“Additional Info Requested”	The IRS needs more documentation—respond promptly.
“Determination Letter Issued”	Congratulations! Your organization is approved.
“Application Denied”	Not approved—review the reasons, consult support, and consider next steps.

Receiving the determination letter is your formal recognition of 501(c)(3) status.

4. What to Do If Your Application Is Delayed

If you haven’t heard back from the IRS within the typical window, consider these steps:

Confirm you submitted all required documents and paid the correct filing fee.
Check whether the IRS requested additional info and whether you responded.
Maintain normal operations—while you wait, don’t assume approval; track your finances and planning conservatively.
If the delay is extensive, consider reaching out to the IRS line for exempt organizations or consulting a nonprofit professional.

5. After Approval: What Comes Next

Once your 501(c)(3) status is approved:

Open your nonprofit bank account under your new EIN and status.
File any required state registrations for charitable solicitation or tax exemption.
Establish a calendar for annual filings like Form 990, state reporting, and board meetings.

At 501c3Center.com, we help organizations get set up properly and prepare for ongoing compliance.

Final Thoughts

Waiting for your application status can feel uncertain—but understanding the process helps you stay prepared and proactive. The key: monitor, respond, and keep moving forward in your mission work.

If you’d like help tracking your application or preparing next-step documents, our team at 501c3Center.com is here to support you.