8131 - Religious Organizations
When exploring the diverse landscape of government contracting and business classification, NAICS code 8131 - Religious Organizations stands out as a key category representing faith-based establishments across the United States. Whether you’re a business owner, nonprofit leader, or government contractor, understanding NAICS 8131 is essential for identifying applicable federal programs, grants, and contracting opportunities.
What is NAICS Code 8131?
NAICS code 8131, titled "Religious Organizations," covers establishments primarily engaged in operating religious entities such as churches, synagogues, temples, and other places of worship. These organizations often provide:
- Religious services and ceremonies
- Spiritual guidance and education
- Community support and outreach programs
This classification helps government agencies and other organizations categorize and support faith-based institutions effectively.
Sector Overview: Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations
NAICS 8131 falls under the broader sector entitled "Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations" (Sector 813). This sector groups together organizations that:
- Carry out religious activities and worship
- Manage charitable and grantmaking functions
- Provide professional and civic services
Typical Business Activities within NAICS 8131:
- Hosting congregational worship and religious ceremonies
- Providing pastoral counseling and spiritual education
- Running religious schools and training ministries
- Organizing community aid and charitable events
Size Standards for NAICS 8131 Eligibility
Understanding size standards is critical for eligibility in government contracting and small business programs. The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) typically sets size standards based on annual receipts or number of employees.
Size Standard for NAICS 8131:
| NAICS Code | Title | Size Standard |
|---|---|---|
| 8131 | Religious Organizations | $35 million average annual receipts |
Organizations under this code with average annual receipts not exceeding $35 million are generally considered small businesses by SBA standards.
Examples of Businesses Operating Under NAICS 8131
To give you a clearer picture, here are some typical examples of organizations and activities classified under NAICS 8131:
- Churches: Baptist, Catholic, Methodist churches providing worship services and community programs.
- Synagogues: Jewish places of worship offering religious events and cultural education.
- Temples: Hindu, Buddhist, Sikh temples conducting spiritual rituals and social outreach.
- Other religious organizations offering similar services, including parishes, mosques, and other congregations.
NAICS Code 8131 Details Summary Table
| Code | Title | Sector | Description | Size Standard |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8131 | Religious Organizations | Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations | Establishments primarily operating religious organizations such as churches, temples, and synagogues | $35 million avg. annual receipts |
Frequently Asked Questions About NAICS Code 8131
1. What types of organizations are included under NAICS 8131?
NAICS 8131 includes churches, synagogues, temples, mosques, and other places of worship primarily engaged in religious services and community support.
2. How is NAICS 8131 used?
This code helps classify religious organizations for government contracting, grant eligibility, and statistical purposes.
3. What is the SBA size standard for NAICS code 8131?
The size standard is $35 million in average annual receipts. Organizations below this threshold are considered small businesses.
4. Can religious schools fall under NAICS 8131?
Typically, religious schools fall under different NAICS codes related to education, although their affiliation with religious organizations is recognized separately.
5. Why is knowing your NAICS code important?
Identifying the correct NAICS code helps organizations access federal contracts, grants, and compliance resources targeted to their sector.
Conclusion
Whether you operate a church, synagogue, temple, or any other religious institution, NAICS code 8131 is your official classification in the government and business realms. Understanding this code — its sector, size standards, and typical activities — empowers organizations to better navigate contracting opportunities and community engagement. Keep this guide handy to maximize your chances in government programs and appropriate funding channels.
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