A determination letter is sent after applying for the 501(c)(3) exemption. The IRS will only say that “applications are processed as quickly as possible” and “are processed in the order received by the IRS.” However, it does provide a list of 10 tips that can shorten the process. Anecdotally, the website BoardEffect, which offers software designed “to make the work of their boards of directors easier, more efficient and more effective,” says it can take as little as two to four weeks if you can file Form 1023-EZ. However, those who must (or choose) to file Form 1023 will likely wait for anywhere from three to six months to get their letter, while in some cases the wait can be as long as a year.