• Form SS-4, “Application for Employer Identification Number”

                  Instructions:   http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/iss4.pdf

                  Fill-in form:   http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf

• Publication 557, “Tax-Exempt Status for Your Organization”

                  http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p557.pdf

• Package 1023, “Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.”  Includes fill-in form 1023, instructions for form 1023, and form 872-C:     

                  http://www.irs.gov/charities/article/0,,id=139469,00.html

• Form 8718, “User Fee For Exempt Organization”

                  http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f8718.pdf

• California Forms and Instructions Form 3500 Booklet, “Exemption Application Booklet." Includes instructions and two copies of form 3500.

                  http://www.ftb.ca.gov/forms/2008/08_3500bk.pdf

• Consult Tax Tips Pamphlet No. 18, “Sales and Use Tax Guide for Volunteer and Nonprofit Fundraising Organizations" to determine what may and may not be taxable. 

                  http://www.boe.ca.gov/pdf/pub18.pdf