Every presidential election year, the IRS issues a reminder to tax-exempt organizations, such as churches and charities, not to engage in prohibited political activities.

By law, organizations with a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, may not "participate in, or intervene in (including the publishing or distributing of statements) any political campaign on behalf of (or in opposition to) any candidate for public office."

Organizations can engage in advocating for or against issues and, to a limited extent, ballot initiatives or other legislative activities.

Tax-exempt organizations that break the rules risk losing their tax-exempt status. More information about the law pertaining to political campaign activity and tax-exempt status can be found at the IRS web site (www.irs.gov).

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