Nonprofit Lobbying Resources

The Center for Lobbying in the Public Interest (CLPI) and the Alliance for Justice (AFJ) both provide information on how to take the 501(h) election, what activities count as lobbying, and how to track and report lobbying expenditures. Browse on your own, or see some of our favorite links below.

Frequently Asked Questions About Nonprofit Lobbying
CLPI's comprehensive FAQ - a great place to start.

Worry-free Lobbying for Nonprofits: How to Use the 501(h) Election to Maximize Effectiveness
This free 12-page booklet by the Alliance for Justice explains how to use the 501(h) election and details the spending limits. It is also has information on foundation fundraising to support lobbying work.

In-depth Analysis: Lobbying Issues
A long but refreshingly clear document available from the IRS. The "specific issues" section beginning on page 10 is particularly helpful.

The Nonprofit Lobbying Guide
This comprehensive book from Independent Sector is now available FREE online. Go straight to Chapter 9 for a clear overview of nonprofit lobbying laws.

Being a Player
This book has a start-to-finish explanation of the lobbying laws affecting your organization, and can be purchased from AFJ. See more AFJ publications here.

Lobby? You? Yes!
Need help convincing your board that your organization can - and should - lobby? This CLPI brochure is a great handout.

How-To Resources
CLPI factsheets with advice on how to lobby effectively.

Form 5768
Complete this short and simple IRS form to take the 501(h) election!

Advocacy Seminar Workbook
The Workbook from Rally 2009’s “Advocating for Success” seminar is now available for board, staff and volunteers of Alliance members at The Learning Center. It contains a step-by-step guide, sample action plan and a variety of resources for strengthening your capacity build support among the media, donors, elected officials and other audiences. Login or set up your account and can then re-click this link to find the workbook.