How to Complain to the IRS about Non-Profits

by ABibleStudent 2 Replies latest watchtower scandals

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  ABibleStudent

  Has anyone read the If you want the IRS to re-examine Scientology’s tax exempt status, it’s time to get real by Tony Ortega? The blog made two interesting points that definitely applies to Scientology and may apply to the WTBTS.

  1st Point -

  Jeff found, for example, this happy language from the government about how it really, really wants to hear from you! “Go ahead and complain. The Internal Revenue Service is all ears — particularly about complaints alleging any abuse of the tax-exempt status granted to a non-profit organization,” says an agency information sheet.

  He recommends that you grab a copy of the official form the IRS wants you to use to submit a referral (which is IRS lingo for a complaint).

  2nd Point [bolded "and publications" for emphasis]

  The Church of Scientology’s Office of Special Affairs pays tax exempt dollars to hire writers, videographers, and social media specialists to create false, defamatory, malicious, and deceptive propaganda in the form of hate websites and publications. This malicious content is directed against former members of the church, critics, journalists, filmmakers, and others who publicly expose Church of Scientology abuses.
  

  According to the blog, anyone can file a complaint with the IRS. American citizenship is not required!

  If you are afraid of retaliation from the WTBTS or being shunned by JWs make sure to check the box marked "I am concerned that I might face retaliation or retribution if my identity is disclosed". I wonder if the other box could be checked to complain about how the Watchtower uses "undue influence" on members and promotes it being used on members and ex-members.

  Now, how many JWN members would take the time to fill out form 13909 without disclosing their identify? A hand full?

  If enough people would write to their US politicians like I write about in the thread Revise Tax Code to Protect Children from Sexual Abuse, maybe another option would be added to form 13909, "Does not implement effective policies and practices or follow them to protect children from sexual abuse."

  Peace be with you and everyone, who you love,

  Robert

  
  
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  Vidiot

  A shame we can't complain to the IRS about non-prophets.
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  ABibleStudent

  @ Vidiot, Nice play on words! You can always complain by checking the other box and explaining why. Just don't expect the IRS to investigate.

  It is unfortunate that current tax laws do not authorize the IRS to investigate acts of undue influence or that the WTBTS is very good at keeping its shady deals secret.

  If the IRS did start receiving complaints about the WTBTS using undue influence on its members, who no longer want to be associated with the WTBTS, maybe the IRS would investigate other complaints about the WTBTS's shady deals. If the WTBTS gives hotel rooms in exchange for donations or building materials in exchange for donations, I don't see how donors can deduct those types of donations off their taxes.

  On the other hand I don't understand why most exJWs complain about the WTBTS and aren't willing to become politically active to educate governments about what the WTBTS does and how to prevent it. I admire those few exJWs who have overcome their phobias and do become politically active by contacting government officials and politicians.

  Peace be with you and everyone, who you love,

  Robert