Student Organizations are not classified as non-profit or tax-exempt entities. An organization must make proper application to the Internal Revenue Service for its own tax-exempt status. Most student organizations will not qualify for non-profit tax-exempt status, but will still need a tax ID number to have an off-campus bank account. Student Organizations are NOT authorized to use Grand Valley State University's tax-exempt identification number for purchasing or donation purposes without written University Approval from the Office of Student Life or University Development.

In order to obtain items tax-free, the organization must purchase goods through the Office of Student Life (OSL). If a person/business wishes to get tax credit for a donation to a student organization, it must coordinate the donation through the Office of Student Life. Additionally, the person/business would need to write the check or make the donation to "GVSU" and specify the student organization receiving the donation/gift. Consult with OSL for assistance with IRS applications, purchasing goods tax-free, or processing donations to your organization. Questions may be directed to OSL by calling (616) 331-2345 or by email at [email protected]