GuideStar is the world’s largest source of information on nonprofit organizations. Listing your church, annual conference, district, or UM-affiliated organization is FREE and EASY.
1. How can my church be listed on GuideStar?
To get started, visit UMgroupruling.org, and follow the steps to request a group ruling letter. You will be given the option to check the box, “Yes please list me on GuideStar.” That is all you need to do to be listed!
2. What if my church already has a group ruling letter?
GCFA began offering GuideStar listings in January 2018. If you received your group ruling letter before then, you can still be listed in GuideStar. Go back to UMgroupruling.org and complete the application for an updated group ruling letter. Before submitting the application, click “Yes please list me on GuideStar.”
3. Can I be added to GuideStar if I am an affiliated UM organization and not a church?
Yes. Affiliated organizations that have been issued a certificate of inclusion in the group ruling can be added to GuideStar. If you are eligible for a group ruling letter, you have the option of being added to Guidestar. When you sign into UMgroupruling.org, check the box, “Yes please list me on GuideStar.”
4. Why should my church or organization be listed in GuideStar?
In a time when most donor organizations are using electronic verification of an organization’s 501(c)(3) status, they check GuideStar. AmazonSmile, Facebook, and the Wal-Mart Foundation are just a few entities that utilize the GuideStar database to verify nonprofit status.
5. How long does it take to be added to GuideStar?
GCFA updates GuideStar quarterly beginning in January. Once GuideStar adds your UM church, annual conference, district, or affiliated organization, you must claim your profile at guidestar.org/update.