I ask because I run a non-profit organization and all we've done in the past is collect just enough money from local business' and small donations to complete a project. Though as we take on larger projects we are needing to collect more money and we are going over the 5000 dollar limit for non-profits to not file. We already have an EIN though I am completely lost on how to become exempt. Are there any Apply for tax exemptions for dummies books out their? Also the goal of our organization is pretty general "Research and Implement the means to increase the quality of life" so we could be classed as a scientific/research organization or a humanitarian organization, does the IRS allow non-profit organizations to have such general goals? Also I know when you file for incorporation you have to also search and make sure no one else has the same or similiar corporation name, as a non profit organization(nor corporation) would it be necessary to search to see if our name is trademarked and if so choose another name and trademark it?