DOCUMENT ID: LODGE-FAQ-C3
TITLE: Political Compliance FAQ for 501(c)(3) Lodges
VERSION: 1.0
STATUS: Active Draft
APPLIES TO: Charity Helpers Foundation (501(c)(3))

--------------------------------------------------

POLITICAL COMPLIANCE FAQ — 501(c)(3) LODGES

PURPOSE

This FAQ explains political activity limits for lodges operating under the 501(c)(3) charitable framework.
It is written to reduce confusion and prevent accidental violations.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Why are there political limits for 501(c)(3) lodges?

501(c)(3) organizations receive tax-exempt status.
In exchange, they are prohibited from engaging in political campaign activity and are limited in lobbying.

These limits protect the organization and its participants.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Can we support or oppose political candidates?

No.

Charitable lodges may not:
- endorse candidates
- oppose candidates
- campaign for candidates
- fundraise for candidates
- coordinate with campaigns

This applies at all levels: local, state, and federal.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Can we talk about politics at meetings?

General discussion is allowed.

What is not allowed:
- coordinated advocacy
- campaign strategy
- targeted political messaging
- calls to vote for or against candidates

When in doubt, keep discussion educational and non-directive.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Can we discuss public policy or social issues?

Yes, carefully.

Allowed:
- educational discussion
- issue awareness
- neutral analysis

Not allowed:
- lobbying for specific legislation
- urging participants to contact legislators
- organizing political pressure campaigns

--------------------------------------------------

Q: What about voting information or civic education?

Allowed:
- neutral voter education
- explaining how voting works
- nonpartisan issue summaries

Not allowed:
- partisan framing
- targeted messaging
- electioneering

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Can individual members do political activity on their own?

Yes.

Individuals may:
- engage politically on their own time
- participate in campaigns personally
- hold political opinions

They may not:
- use lodge meetings for coordination
- imply lodge or charity endorsement
- use shared platforms for political advocacy

--------------------------------------------------

Q: Can we host political speakers?

Generally no.

Hosting candidates or partisan speakers creates risk.
Educational forums must be strictly neutral and balanced.

If unsure, do not host.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: What if someone breaks the rules at a meeting?

The lodge should address it immediately.

Best practice:
- stop the activity
- clarify boundaries
- redirect discussion

Prompt correction matters.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: What happens if a lodge repeatedly ignores these limits?

Affiliation may be withdrawn.

The group may continue independently, but without charitable affiliation.

--------------------------------------------------

Q: How do we stay safe if we are unsure?

Simple rules:
- do not advocate
- do not endorse
- do not organize politically
- keep discussion educational

When in doubt, pause or operate independently.

--------------------------------------------------

SUMMARY

501(c)(3) lodges are allowed to think, learn, and discuss.

They are not allowed to campaign, lobby, or organize politically.

--------------------------------------------------

END OF DOCUMENT
