[fuzzylogic]

Here’s the thing...it’s my understanding that Churches are automatically exempt from paying taxes. They’re not required to file a 501c3 (non-profit) form and it’s a complete lie that they can only remain a non-profit by staying away from politics.

The law specifically exempts the Church. Prior to 1954 they *never* filed, it’s a complete misunderstanding that they must now. The “separation of church and state” goes both ways...the IRS has no jurisdiction over the Church. The power to tax is the power to destroy, how is that in-line with free speech and the 1st amendment?

[haywoodwebb]

You are correct. A church has automatic tax exempt status. It cannot be revoked because it is never applied for. Many churches do apply as 501c3 orgs but they are not required to. More info here

I was a member at the Church at Pierce Creek, (now Landmark Church,) when their tax exempt status had been "revoked." It only applied to the 501c3 designation. The church was still tax exempt by law. They were just suing because they wanted the 501 back.