Should Churches be Tax Exempt?

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Accepting tax exemption also means refraining from intervening in partisan politics. Some religious leaders have a difficult time accepting this. But the “no-politicking” rule is part of the tax code and must be obeyed. If a church wants to tell people which candidates to vote for or against, it should first give up its tax-exempt status.

Remember, this provision applies to all tax-exempt, 501 (c)(3) organizations. It’s not some special burden on houses of worship. Museums, charities, educational institutions and so on must abide by it as well. And the ban on politicking applies only to endorsing or opposing candidates for public office. It does not extend to discussion of issues. Even in a church, there is plenty of room to talk about the burning issues of the day. The pastor just can’t use the pulpit or church resources to tell you who to vote for or against.

This rule is not a stifling of free speech. Remember, no house of worship or organization is required to take tax exemption. Exemption from taxes is a desirable benefit, one that not surprisingly comes with conditions. If a church (or indeed any non-profit) doesn’t want to meet the conditions, it is free to forgo tax exemption, pay taxes and be as partisan as it wants.