Most people have heard the term “private foundation,” and know vaguely that it somehow relates to philanthropic organizations.  But beyond that, most people are lost when pressed for more details about these organizations. A 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization is either a public charity or a private foundation. The default is that an organization will be classified as a private foundation unless it can demonstrate that it falls into one of the categories specifically excluded from the definition of a private foundation. These rules are found in section 509(a). Generally, it is to the advantage of the organization to be classified as a public charity as there are fewer restrictions on the operations of the organization under this category.

A private foundation is typically a legal entity set up by an individual, a family, or a group of Read More