While filing for tax-exempt status with the US Internal Revenue Service, apply to the DC Office of Tax and Revenue for exemption from District of Columbia taxes (income and franchise tax, sales and use tax, and personal property tax).
Organizations recognized under section 501(c)(3) of the federal tax code may qualify for sales tax exemption. Other organizations cannot qualify for sales tax exemption.
Organizations should submit their applications to DC even before obtaining federal tax-exempt status since their effective date in DC will be based upon when they initially submit their DC Form 164. However, DC will not issue a final determination until after the IRS recognizes the organization's tax-exempt status.
