Nonprofit Tax Attorney Job Description [Updated for 2025]

In today’s complex regulatory environment, the need for nonprofit tax attorneys has never been more critical.

As the tax code evolves, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can navigate, interpret, and safeguard our nonprofit tax landscape.

But what exactly does a nonprofit tax attorney do?

Whether you are:

• A job seeker trying to comprehend the nuances of this role,
• A hiring manager looking to find the perfect candidate,
• Or simply curious about the intricacies of nonprofit tax law,

You’ve come to the right place.

Today, we introduce a customizable nonprofit tax attorney job description template, designed for easy posting on job boards or career sites.

Let’s dive right into it.

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Duties and Responsibilities

Nonprofit Tax Attorneys specialize in advising nonprofit organizations on tax issues, including compliance with tax laws, transactional dealings, and potential tax liabilities.

These attorneys combine their understanding of tax law with a knowledge of the nonprofit sector to ensure that organizations maintain their tax-exempt status and avoid potential fines or penalties.

Their duties and responsibilities include:

• Advising nonprofit organizations on their tax obligations and potential liabilities
• Assisting with the preparation and review of tax returns for nonprofit organizations
• Providing legal advice on the structure and operation of nonprofit organizations to maintain tax-exempt status
• Assisting with Internal Revenue Service audits and inquiries related to tax issues
• Advising on compliance with federal, state, and local tax laws and regulations
• Representing nonprofit organizations in tax disputes and litigation
• Advising on the tax implications of transactions and operations, such as donations, grants, and fundraising activities
• Keeping abreast of changes in tax law and regulations that may affect nonprofit organizations
• Educating clients on the legal and tax obligations of running a nonprofit organization
• Reviewing and drafting contracts, agreements, and other legal documents related to the organization’s tax matters

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Job Description Template

Job Brief

We are seeking a dedicated Nonprofit Tax Attorney to provide legal counsel and tax advice to our nonprofit organization.

The role involves assisting with all tax-related matters, ensuring legal compliance, and advising on matters related to IRS regulations.

Our ideal candidate has a deep understanding of nonprofit tax law, strong analytical skills, and a commitment to promoting the organization’s mission.

Ultimately, the Nonprofit Tax Attorney will help our organization navigate the complex landscape of nonprofit tax law, ensuring we continue to provide invaluable services to our community in a compliant and efficient manner.

 

Responsibilities

• Provide tax legal advice and counsel to the organization on a wide range of issues
• Prepare and review tax-related documents and forms
• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local tax laws and regulations
• Navigate IRS regulations and guidelines related to nonprofits
• Assist with IRS audits and inquiries
• Advise on the tax implications of organizational decisions and strategies
• Stay abreast of changes in nonprofit tax law and inform relevant stakeholders
• Collaborate with other departments to ensure alignment with tax strategies

 

Qualifications

• Proven work experience as a tax attorney, preferably within a nonprofit organization
• Juris Doctor degree and a license to practice law
• Strong knowledge of nonprofit tax law and IRS regulations
• Excellent analytical and research skills
• Ability to communicate complex tax law in understandable terms
• Strong interpersonal skills to interact with diverse stakeholders

 

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off
• Continuing legal education opportunities

 

Additional Information

• Job Title: Nonprofit Tax Attorney
• Work Environment: Office setting with some flexibility for remote work. Occasional travel may be required for meetings or conferences.
• Reporting Structure: Reports to the General Counsel or Executive Director.
• Salary: Salary is based upon candidate experience and qualifications, as well as market and business considerations.
• Pay Range: $90,000 minimum to $150,000 maximum
• Location: [City, State] (specify the location or indicate if remote)
• Employment Type: Full-time
• Equal Opportunity Statement: We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.
• Application Instructions: Please submit your resume, a cover letter outlining your qualifications and experience, and a list of references to [email address or application portal].

 

What Does a Nonprofit Tax Attorney Do?

A Nonprofit Tax Attorney is a specialized legal expert who deals with tax matters related to nonprofit organizations.

Their primary responsibility is to guide nonprofit organizations through the complexities of federal, state, and local tax regulations.

This includes helping organizations to understand their tax-exempt status, navigating the process of applying for tax-exempt status, and ensuring compliance with tax laws to maintain this status.

They advise on issues including charitable giving, program-related investments, unrelated business income, and lobbying activities.

They also help with structuring joint ventures and other strategic alliances.

When tax disputes arise with the IRS or other regulatory bodies, Nonprofit Tax Attorneys are responsible for representing the organization, negotiating on their behalf, and if necessary, litigating the case.

In addition to these tax-specific tasks, Nonprofit Tax Attorneys may also assist with other legal matters such as governance issues, contracts, employment law, and intellectual property rights.

Moreover, they often work closely with an organization’s board of directors, providing legal advice and helping to establish strategies that both fulfill the organization’s mission and comply with tax laws.

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Qualifications and Skills

A proficient nonprofit tax attorney should possess a range of technical skills, legal expertise, and communication abilities, such as:

• Deep understanding of tax law, especially pertaining to nonprofit organizations, to provide accurate and effective tax advice and representation.
• Excellent research skills to stay current with changing tax laws and regulations that can impact their nonprofit clients.
• Strong analytical skills to interpret complex tax laws, regulations, and court decisions, and apply them in varying situations.
• Effective negotiation skills to represent clients in dealings with the IRS and other tax authorities.
• Superior written and verbal communication skills to explain intricate tax law concepts in an understandable manner to clients.
• High ethical standards and professional integrity, as they will be trusted with sensitive financial information and must act in the best interest of their clients.
• Problem-solving abilities to devise strategic tax planning for their clients and resolve any tax-related issues that may arise.
• Must possess a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and have passed the state bar examination.
• Experience or specialization in nonprofit tax law is typically required or strongly preferred.

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Experience Requirements

Nonprofit Tax Attorneys must have a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school and a license to practice law in their respective state.

As with other attorneys, they also need to pass their state’s bar examination.

Prior to specializing in nonprofit tax law, many attorneys gain general law experience through internships or entry-level positions in law firms or public institutions.

These professionals can also gain experience in roles such as Legal Assistant, Paralegal, or General Practice Attorney.

In terms of specific experience in nonprofit tax law, most employers seek candidates with 2 to 5 years of experience, either through a specialized role in a law firm, legal department of a nonprofit organization, or tax division of a government agency.

Those with more than 5 years of experience are usually expected to have developed a deep understanding of tax laws, regulations, and procedures related to nonprofit organizations, and they may be ready to take on leadership roles or specialize in complex nonprofit tax cases.

Additionally, some employers may require or prefer candidates with a Master of Laws (LLM) degree in Taxation or related certification such as Certified Public Accountant (CPA), showcasing advanced knowledge and experience in the field.

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Education and Training Requirements

Nonprofit Tax Attorneys typically hold a bachelor’s degree in law, business, or a related field, but they must also complete a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association.

This profession requires a deep understanding of tax laws, particularly as they pertain to nonprofit organizations.

Therefore, after obtaining a JD, many prospective Nonprofit Tax Attorneys continue their education by earning a Master of Laws (LLM) in Taxation or a similar specialty.

Every state requires attorneys to pass the bar examination in order to practice law.

The bar exam is typically a two-day process including a written test and a character and fitness assessment.

Furthermore, a Nonprofit Tax Attorney must stay updated on the constantly changing tax laws.

Continuing education courses and seminars are crucial for maintaining knowledge and skills in the field.

In addition, some Nonprofit Tax Attorneys may choose to earn certification in taxation from organizations like the American Bar Association or the Board of Legal Specialization, which can demonstrate their expertise and dedication to this particular area of law.

Finally, practical experience gained through internships, clerkships, or pro bono work can be invaluable for understanding the unique challenges and nuances of tax law for nonprofit organizations.

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Salary Expectations

A Nonprofit Tax Attorney can expect to earn an average salary of $87,980 (USD) per year.

However, the actual salary can vary greatly based on the attorney’s experience, level of education, geographic location, and the specific needs of the nonprofit organization.

 

Nonprofit Tax Attorney Job Description FAQs

What skills does a Nonprofit Tax Attorney need?

A Nonprofit Tax Attorney should possess strong analytical skills to review complicated tax laws and regulations.

They should also have excellent communication skills to explain complex tax issues to their clients.

Attention to detail is also necessary for reviewing and drafting legal documents.

Nonprofit Tax Attorneys need to have excellent negotiation skills for settling disputes between clients and tax authorities.

 

What education is needed to become a Nonprofit Tax Attorney?

To become a Nonprofit Tax Attorney, one needs to earn a bachelor’s degree, followed by a Juris Doctor (JD) degree from an accredited law school.

After law school, they should pass the bar exam in the state where they wish to practice.

A Tax LL.M. degree, which is a master’s degree in tax law, is often beneficial but not mandatory.

 

What should you look for in a Nonprofit Tax Attorney resume?

A resume for a Nonprofit Tax Attorney should include a law degree from an accredited law school and bar membership.

Experience in tax law, especially in a nonprofit setting, should be highlighted.

Look for skills such as tax planning, research, legal writing, negotiation, and communication.

Any experience with the IRS or state tax authorities can also be a plus.

 

What qualities make a good Nonprofit Tax Attorney?

A good Nonprofit Tax Attorney should have a deep understanding of tax law and nonprofit regulations.

They should have strong problem-solving skills to come up with legal strategies for their clients.

Excellent communication skills are needed to explain complex legal issues in a way that is easy for clients to understand.

They should also have a high level of integrity and professionalism.

 

Is it difficult to hire Nonprofit Tax Attorneys?

Hiring a Nonprofit Tax Attorney can be challenging due to the specialized nature of the role.

It requires finding a candidate with a strong background in tax law, understanding of nonprofit regulations, and experience dealing with tax authorities.

Therefore, you must offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional development to attract suitable candidates.

 

Conclusion

And there you have it.

Today, we’ve shed light on what it truly means to be a nonprofit tax attorney.

Surprise, surprise?

It’s not just about filing returns.

It’s about shaping the future of philanthropy, one tax exemption at a time.

With our comprehensive nonprofit tax attorney job description template and real-world examples, you’re poised to make your mark.

But why stop at just understanding?

Go a step further with our job description generator. It’s your ultimate guide to crafting impeccable job listings or polishing your resume to perfection.

Remember:

Every tax exemption is a piece of the larger philanthropic puzzle.

Let’s shape the future of nonprofit work. Together.

How to Become a Nonprofit Tax Attorney (Complete Guide)

Can You Handle It? The Ultimate Stress Test in These Jobs!

Hot Job Horizon: The Careers That Are Shining Brightly

Life’s Too Short for a Bad Job: High-Paying Remote Opportunities!

Strangely Satisfying: Bizarre Jobs People Love