Bank Account ✅✅✅Opening A Faith Religious Base Org 508c1a

Norwood MinisterBeeBetta Williams Jr.

May 18 (edited) • General discussion

How a 508(c)(1)(a) Can Open a Bank Account

✅ What You Need:

EIN (Employer Identification Number) Filed under “Unincorporated Association” or “Church/Ministry” Use IRS Form SS-4 (can be done online or via fax)
Trust or Organizational Documents Private documents showing you operate as a faith-based, purpose-driven organization (e.g. Articles of Association or Declaration of Trust)
Governing Instruments Minutes of the first meeting, founding declaration, or spiritual charter States your purpose, mission, structure, and oversight body
Authorized Representative(s) Your name (or trustee’s name), matching the documentation Government-issued ID and proof of address

Pro Tips for Success:

Use the 508(c)(1)(a) name on all documents — don’t mix personal names.
Choose the right banks — some are familiar with private faith-based accounts, others aren’t.

Bank Name

Why Use It:

Truist

Friendly to ministries and trusts

Ask for nonprofit or ministry account

PNC Bank

Known for nonprofit flexibility

Explain you are a faith-based org

Navy Federal CU

Great if you are eligible

Supports religious entities

Local Credit Unions

Most flexible and personal

Build a relationship, show docs

Language to Use with Bankers:

“We are a private, unincorporated, faith-based association operating under 508(c)(1)(a) of the Internal Revenue Code. We have our EIN, organizational charter, and we are here to open a fiduciary account for ministry purposes.”

Avoid using the term “nonprofit” loosely — say “faith-based ministry” or “private religious association.”

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