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!
