Donors must have a bank record or written acknowledgment from the nonprofit before claiming a tax deduction for a charitable contribution. While organizations without 501c3 status can't apply for grants, there are still ways to legally accept donations, fund their business, and serve the community.To be taxexempt under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, an organization must be organized and operated exclusively for exempt purposes. Exemption applications must be filed with your local assessor's office. See our Municipal Profiles for your local assessor's mailing address. When is a nonprofit donation tax receipt required? Include the nonprofit's EIN so the the donor can to check the charity's tax-exempt status with the IRS. However, without a 501(c)3 status, your donors will not be able to receive a tax deduction for their donations. IRS Determination Letter for 501 (c)(3) Tax Exemption. Save the Children is a leading humanitarian organization for children.