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Your Non-Profit StatusAs a missionary raising support in the USA, it is important that you have a nonprofit status. With this status your supporters are not only more likely to give, but give more. One of my most generous supporters put it this way: "If I can deduct this giving from my taxes, then I am able to give more." 
This isn't the only reason though to be "official" with the IRS (Internal Revenue Service.) By having a non profit status it is another level or layer of credibility with your donors that you are legitimate and accountable. Remember, you want to build your support base beyond that of those who already know and trust you now.If you are not part of an organization that will assist you in channeling your funding through to allow your supporters to get the tax credit they want, you do have another option. You can personally become your own non-profit entity. This takes some time and some paper and legal work, but is definitely worth the effort if this is your only option as an independent missionary. The status is often referred to as "501c3." Someone may ask you if you are a tax exempt organization or have a 501c3. As long as the USA government allows this, take advantage of it and cooperate with it. Your support raising will have an obstacle removed if you do. Check with an accountant, lawyer, or Google it to find the expertise to do this.
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