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Abstract: 

The leading presidential candidates differ on issues as diverse as religious liberty, climate change, and social justice concerns, many of which might be within the purview of a foundation’s IRC Sec.501(c)(3) purpose. As a result, some foundation managers might be inclined to use foundation resources to support a particular candidate in furtherance of the foundation’s purpose. This article explains why political contributions are almost never a good idea for 501(c)3 foundations, outlines a number of prohibited activities with examples, summarizes the penalties for violations, and suggests alternative ways a foundation can positively impact policy without running afoul of IRS regulations.

Keywords: IRC Sec 4945(d)(2); Prohibition on Political Activity

Affiliations:  1: Strasburger & Price, LLP.