Church and Religious Organization Frequently Asked Questions

Product donations to churches, synagogues, mosques, and other religious organizations have opened up considerably recently. We have many religious organizations signing up with us now. Here are four frequently asked questions and answers to speed up your TechSoup registration, so you can get charitable product donations more quickly.

1. How Do I Register My Church, Synagogue, Mosque, or Temple Correctly on TechSoup?

To receive product donations, you must join TechSoup and register your organization.

In order to get TechSoup donations, all churches need federal 501(c)(3) charitable status. If you are uncertain whether you have 501(c)(3) status, talk to the person who handles your finances, or call the IRS at (877) 829-5500.

During the registration process, you will need the following:

• Organization name
• Address
• Annual operating budget
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): this should match the number listed on your 501(c)(3) IRS tax determination letter
• Phone and fax numbers
• Email address: this should be the most appropriate address for receiving product donation instructions and licensing information
• Organization URL: the address of your organization's website
• Organization type and subtype: It is important to select the type and subtype that most closely reflect your organization's primary mission and activities

Some Additional Information About Employer Identification Numbers (EIN)

It is common for churches to have a state-issued EIN and also a federal one. We need the federal EIN.

2. What If There Is a Problem with My Registration?

If, after registering, TechSoup is unable to qualify you, we will contact you and ask for additional information about your church or religious organization. Of course, you are always welcome to phone us at 800-659-3579, option 2, or email us at customerservice [at] techsoup [dot] org.

3. Schools Are Not Eligible to Receive Microsoft Donations from TechSoup; What If My Church Operates a Parochial School? Can I Get Other Donations?

Yes. Your school should be registered separately, with the organization subtype of "Private School" under the organization type "Schools, Colleges and Related Activities." Use the EIN from your U.S. federal 501(c)(3) letter from the IRS.

4. How Can I Get Microsoft Software for My School?

Find a list of Microsoft Authorized Education Partners on the Microsoft website.

Additional Resources

• Our customer service team is here to help. Contact us here!
• TechSoup's Product Donation Page for Religious Organizations
• TechSoup's General Product Donation FAQ
• Find Out What Specific TechSoup Product Donations Your Organization Is Eligible For
• What TechSoup Offers Religious Organizations

Image 1: geralt / CC0 Public Domain

Image 2: falco / CC0 Public Domain