General Discussion
In reply to the discussion: Does anyone else think it's time to tax the churches? [View all]Sgent
(5,857 posts)Churches are given 501(c)(3) status because they are churches -- not due to their other activities. The definition of 501c3 includes churches -- and they do not have to apply for that status. Churches currently have a special status in the law because if you took the religion portion away, the only status they would be eligible for would be the same as an American Legion or VFW hall -- which are not 501c3's.
There's no reason that churches should have the same status as charities. You can certainly have a sister organization, with (for instance) an interlocking board of directors that provides charity as defined for every other type of 501(c)(3).
TL;DR Churches already get explicitly special status under the law. They should be treated the same as every other club or organization.