Did you know the NFL has been a "nonprofit" business since 1966 under a 501(c)(6) filing?

I was surprised to learn the NFL has been a tax exempt organization since 1966. It filed under 501(c)(6) using the clause that it is an "exclusive club". The NFL is not alone in it's claim to be a nonprofit organization under this clause,"These organizations are taking advantage of the provision of the tax code that allows industry and trade groups, such as the U.S. Chamber of Commerce or the Natural Resources Defense Council, to qualify as non-profit and tax-exempt. None of these groups can promote a specific brand within an industry but each may promote an industry as a whole." The NFL has lived every taxpayer's dream using its tax exempt status to avoid paying taxes due to, 'Hotels and restaurants [did not tax] National Football League employees. … The NFL [used] its tax-exempt status as a 501(c)(6) to avoid paying taxes, in addition to fuel, auto rental and admissions taxes.'" This year they are changing their method of operation stating they will file taxes in 2015 because of concerns arising regarding their tax status. Senator Tom Coborn of Oklahoma has challenged their tax exempt status and rallies against this type of tax exemption. Remember this when votes are being made about raising your taxes and ask, "Why were these groups being allowed to avoid paying tens of thousands of dollars in taxes?" http://www.wsj.com/articles/nfl-to-end-tax-exempt-status [login to see]