The National Taxonomy of Exempt Entities (NTEE) code list is a standardized system for classifying nonprofit organizations based on their primary mission or purpose. Developed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the National Center for Charitable Statistics (NCCS), the NTEE code list is widely used by grantmakers, researchers, and nonprofit organizations themselves to track and analyze the nonprofit sector.
Understanding the NTEE Code List
The NTEE code list is organized into nine major categories, each of which is further divided into subcategories and specific codes. The major categories include:
- Arts, Culture, and Humanities
- Education
- Environment and Animal Welfare
- Health
- Human Services
- International Affairs
- Public Safety, Law Enforcement, and Military
- Recreation and Sports
- Religion Related
Each NTEE code is a five-digit number that represents a specific type of nonprofit organization. For example, the code 92200 represents “Performing Arts, Dance.” Nonprofit organizations can have multiple NTEE codes if their activities span multiple categories.
Benefits of Using the NTEE Code List
The NTEE code list offers several benefits for nonprofit organizations:
- Standardization: The NTEE code list provides a consistent and standardized way to classify nonprofit organizations, making it easier to compare and analyze data across different organizations.
- Funding: Grantmakers often use the NTEE code list to identify potential grant recipients that align with their funding priorities.
- Research: Researchers use the NTEE code list to study the size, scope, and impact of the nonprofit sector.
- Internal Management: Nonprofit organizations can use the NTEE code list to track their progress, evaluate their effectiveness, and identify areas for improvement.
How to Use the NTEE Code List
Nonprofit organizations can find their NTEE code on their IRS Form 990. They can also use the NTEE Data Code Search Tool provided by the IRS: https://apps.irs.gov/app/ntee-code-search/
Common Mistakes to Avoid
There are a few common mistakes that nonprofit organizations should avoid when using the NTEE code list:
- Using too many codes: Nonprofit organizations should only use the NTEE codes that most accurately represent their primary activities. Using too many codes can make it difficult to identify the organization’s true mission and purpose.
- Using codes that are not specific enough: Nonprofit organizations should use the most specific NTEE code that applies to their activities. Using codes that are too general can make it difficult to distinguish the organization from others in the same category.
- Using codes that do not align with the organization’s mission: Nonprofit organizations should only use NTEE codes that align with their stated mission and purpose. Using codes that do not reflect the organization’s actual activities can be misleading and undermine its credibility.
Step-by-Step Approach to Using the NTEE Code List
- Identify your primary activities: Determine the core activities that your nonprofit organization engages in.
- Review the NTEE code list: Use the NTEE Data Code Search Tool to browse the NTEE code list and identify the codes that most closely match your activities.
- Select the most specific codes: Choose the NTEE codes that are most specific and accurately represent your organization’s activities.
- Use multiple codes if necessary: If your organization’s activities span multiple categories, select multiple NTEE codes to accurately reflect your mission.
- Review your codes regularly: As your organization’s activities change, review your NTEE codes to ensure that they remain accurate and up-to-date.
Effective Strategies for Using the NTEE Code List
Nonprofit organizations can maximize the benefits of using the NTEE code list by implementing the following effective strategies:
- Use NTEE codes in all communications: Include your NTEE codes in your website, marketing materials, and grant applications to make it easy for potential donors and partners to identify your organization.
- Use NTEE codes for data analysis: Track your organization’s progress and evaluate your effectiveness by analyzing data using NTEE codes. This can help you identify areas for improvement and demonstrate your impact to stakeholders.
- Use NTEE codes for networking: Use NTEE codes to connect with other nonprofit organizations that have similar missions and goals. This can foster collaboration and lead to new opportunities for funding and support.
Table 1: Major NTEE Categories and Subcategories
| Major Category | Subcategory |
|---|---|
| Arts, Culture, and Humanities | – Arts Education and Appreciation – Arts Organizations – Cultural Centers and Museums – Historic Preservation – Media and Communications |
| Education | – Early Childhood Education – Elementary and Secondary Education – Higher Education – Libraries and Archives – Research and Public Policy – Religious Education – Vocational and Technical Education |
| Environment and Animal Welfare | – Animal Protection – Environmental Conservation – Land and Water Conservation – Natural Resources Management – Science and Technology – Sustainable Development |
| Health | – Alcohol and Drug Prevention – Community Health – Disability Services – Health Education and Promotion – Health Research and Development – Hospitals and Medical Facilities – Mental Health – Public Health – Reproductive Health – Substance Abuse Treatment – Wellness and Disease Prevention |
| Human Services | – Anti-Poverty and Homelessness – Child and Family Services – Civic and Social Organizations – Community Development – Counseling and Mental Health Services – Disability Services – Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services – Economic Development – Employment and Training Services – Food and Nutrition Services – Housing and Homelessness Services – Immigration and Refugee Services – Legal Services – Senior Citizen Services – Victims Assistance |
| International Affairs | – Development and Relief – Education and Training – Environmental Conservation – Health and Human Services – Human Rights and Social Justice – International Education – International Exchange – Peace and Conflict Resolution – Public Policy and Advocacy – Refugee and Immigration Services |
| Public Safety, Law Enforcement, and Military | – Crime Prevention and Control – Emergency Management and Disaster Relief – Fire Prevention and Control – Law Enforcement – Military – Public Safety – Security and Protective Services – Traffic Safety |
| Recreation and Sports | – Amateur Sports – Athletics and Sports Recreation – Parks and Recreation – Physical Fitness and Exercise |
| Religion Related | – Churches and Religious Institutions – Religious Education – Religious Organizations – Religious Social Services – Spiritual Development |
Informal toneList effective Strategies for Using the NTEE Code List
- Lean into the NTEE: Embrace the NTEE code list as a valuable tool for organizing and understanding your nonprofit’s activities. It’s your secret weapon for navigating the funding landscape and making connections with like-minded organizations.
- Get specific: Don’t just settle for general NTEE codes. Dig deep and find the most specific codes that perfectly encapsulate what your organization does. Precision is key when it comes to matching with potential funders and showcasing your impact.
- Stay up-to-date: The NTEE code list is constantly evolving to reflect the changing landscape of the nonprofit sector. Make sure to check in regularly for updates, ensuring that your organization’s codes are always current and accurate.
Common Mistakes to Avoid with NTEE Codes
- Overdoing it: Avoid the temptation to pile on NTEE codes. Stick to the ones that truly represent your core activities. Too many codes can dilute your message and make it harder for potential supporters to understand your organization.
- Underselling yourself: Don’t shy away from using specific NTEE codes that highlight the unique aspects of your organization’s work. Being specific showcases your value proposition and helps you stand out from the crowd.
- Mixing up apples and oranges: Make sure your NTEE codes align with the core activities your organization actually engages in. Avoid using codes that don’t accurately reflect your mission. Integrity is paramount when using the NTEE code list.
How to Use the NTEE Code List Step-by-Step
- Introspection time: Take a deep dive into your organization’s activities and identify the core areas where you make a difference. What are the specific programs and services you offer?
- Code exploration: Explore the NTEE code list and identify the codes that most closely match your organization’s activities. Use the search tool or navigate through the categories to find the best fit.
- Code selection: Choose the most relevant and specific NTEE codes that accurately represent your organization’s mission and work. Remember, quality over quantity.
- Code application: Incorporate your NTEE codes into your website, grant applications, and other communications materials. Make it easy for potential supporters to find you and understand what you do.
- Code checkup: Regularly review your NTEE codes and make adjustments as needed. The nonprofit landscape is constantly evolving, so stay on top of any changes to ensure your codes remain accurate and up-to-date.
Table 2: Top 10 NTEE Codes for Grant Funding
| NTEE Code | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 93100 | Elementary and Secondary Education | Providing educational services to students in kindergarten through grade 12 |
| 93910 | Health Education and Promotion |
