Charity Eligibility and Participation

Q.	What are the eligibility requirements for an organization to participate in the CFC?
A.	To be eligible to participate in the CFC each charity must be designated as a tax-exempt non-profit organization under section 501(c) (3) of the Internal Revenue Code. An application to participate in the CFC must provide specific information about their auditing, governance and program functions, as specified in the CFC regulations at 5 CFR Part 950. Applicants must also provide a completed and signed copy of their IRS Form 990 for their most recent fiscal year. To participate in one of the 300 plus local CFC campaigns, as opposed to being nationally eligible and participating in all local CFC's, a charity must be able to demonstrate that it has a "substantial" program presence within the campaign's (or an adjacent campaign's) geographical boundaries or within the state of the campaign. Charities may apply to participate in the CFC individually (as an "unaffiliated organization"), or they may be represented by a "federation." A federation is a coalition of individual charities with similar missions that align to minimize administrative costs and coordinate activities. If a federation to which a charity belongs is approved for CFC participation the member charity need not apply individually. All CFC application and participation requirements that apply to individual charities also apply to federations. In addition, federations must demonstrate that they have at least 15 CFC-eligible members listed, have administrative and fundraising expenses of not more than 25% of their total support, and that their fundraising, administrative and governance practices meet CFC standards.
Q.	Where do organizations apply?
A.	Visit the CFC website (www.opm.gov/cfc) periodically for updated information on "how to apply."
Q.	If we have questions about our participation in campaigns locally, who do we contact?
A.	Questions should be directed to your local campaign office. A complete listing of local campaign contacts can be found through The Campaign Locator.
Q.	What is the local campaign application deadline?
A.	You will need to contact your local campaign office for this information. However, most local campaigns accept applications between March 15-April 15. You may also refer to the CFC Calendar of Events found on our website for key dates and deadlines.
Q.	How many campaigns am I eligible to apply to?
A.	It depends on the geographic areas your services cover and the number of adjacent campaigns to your local service area. Additional information can be found in the CFC regulations at 5 CFR 950.204.
Q.	Is there a limit on how much in contributions an organization can receive?
A.	Donors can designate any amount they wish to an organization. There is no limit to the amount an organization can receive.
Q.	In what form will payments be received by my organization (i.e., electronic transfers, checks, etc.)?
A.	The vast majority of payments are made in the form of checks, although efforts are being made to increase the use of electronic transfers.
Q.	Are donor contributions received throughout the year?
A.	Contributions are administered by a local non-profit fiscal agent known as the Principal Combined Fund Organization (PCFO). Disbursement cycles depend on the size of the campaign. Campaigns with total receipts exceeding $500,000 must disburse contributions monthly. Campaigns under $500,000 must disburse contributions quarterly. However, the PCFO may send one-time checks to organizations that received very small amounts in contributions.
Q.	Does inclusion in the listing of "National/International Organizations" carry with it any description of the organization's purpose or goals?
A.	Yes, all CFC brochures include a 25-word statement that is crafted by the applicant and submitted to OPM. However, those campaigns that receive less than $100,000 do not have to list the 25-word statement.
Q.	Will we receive the names of donors who have contributed to our organization? How?
A.	It is the responsibility of the local CFC office to forward the names and addresses of donors who wish to have their names released to the recipient organization directly. If the organization is a member of a federation, the federation will receive the donor name and relay it to the participating charity. The PCFO may not make any other use of donors' names and addresses.
Q.	Is it necessary for an organization to submit an application annually?
A.	Yes, all CFC applicants are required to submit a new application annually. (Please visit OPM's Charity Application section.
Q.	We are a new organization, is it possible to estimate how much might we expect to receive in contributions the first year?
A.	It is difficult to estimate how much you will receive in any given year as the CFC, like all workplace giving, is subject to influences that may affect giving (i.e., fluctuations in the Federal labor force). After participating for a number of years, it may be possible to establish an estimated range for the amount to be received. We suggest that organizations contact similar charities which participate in the CFC to inquire about their experiences.
Q.	Will we get an opportunity to participate in meetings, charity exhibits and other events hosted by Federal agencies?
A.	Yes.Participating organizations wishing to be involved in campaign events should contact their local CFC office in writing and request a copy of their calendar of CFC events.
Q.	I have misplaced the application we submitted to you, is it possible for you to send me a copy?
A.	You must submit a request in writing to: Director, Office of CFC Operations 1900 E Street, NW - Room 5450 Washington, DC 20415
Q.	If we have questions regarding the CFC to whom should they be addressed?
A.	Contact the Office of CFC Operations at (202) 606-2564 (Mon.-Fri. 8:00am-5:30pm) or cfc@opm.gov for questions/concerns regarding the campaign.