Is it possible to find the 501c3 applications of non-profits?

Summary:

Once approved, an organization's Form 1023 is a public document; anyone can request a copy.

Richard wrote 5/11/05 to inquire:
Is it possible to find and read the 501c3 applications of non-profits that
have filed for this status?

Putnam Barber replied:
Once an organization has been recognized as tax-exempt by the IRS, its
application (Form 1023) is "open to public inspection." But there is no online
repository.

You, or someone acting for you (if you wish to conceal your identity), will need
to ask the organization(s) of interest for a copy. Organizations are required to
provide these copies, on the same terms as copies of Form 990. One source of
information about this requirement is in
http://www.nonprofits.org/npofaq/misc/APR99.html

Putnam Barber, Editor