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.