January 13, 2008.
PEP was formed in the spring of 2003 and was
chartered as a Pennsylvania non-profit corporation
in 2004. In a letter dated December 13, 2007, the
IRS informed us of its determination that PEP is
“exempt from Federal income tax under section
501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code” and that
contributions to PEP “are deductible under section
170 of the Code.” PEP is a “public charity” under
Federal regulations. Moreover, the effective date of
this status is February 2, 2004.
Board member Lionel Deimel, who managed the process
that resulted in the IRS determination, said, “This
represents an important milestone for PEP. Some
people have been reluctant to make larger
contributions because such gifts were understood not
to be tax-deductible. As our diocese moves closer to
crisis, the IRS ruling will make it easier for PEP
to obtain the resources it needs to educate
Pittsburgh Episcopalians and to co-ordinate
activities among leaders and parishes.”
PEP’s tax-exempt status will make it less painful
for many to join, but we are making it simpler as
well. Members may now fill out a membership form
on-line and pay dues on-line. If you do not wish to
join but would like to make a contribution to PEP,
that, too, may be done on-line. To fill out a
membership form or to make a contribution, click
here.
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