OK, I can see the huge tax breaks available in most countries…which is my motivation (I have a cynical view of religion).
So, lets say I wish to start “The Cult of Cthulhu” - how do I get it recognised as a religion?
The tax breaks are considerably lower than you think.
In the U.S., at least, even if you’re a duly ordained clergyman in a recognized, established religion, you have to pay income taxes like anyone else. A minister who’s paid a salary by a church pays income tax on that salary. If he owns a home, he has to pay property taxes on his home.
The tax breaks available to a church are, for the most part, the same breaks available to any non-profit institution. But if you’re expecting to make a pile of money by calling yourself a clergyman, you’re going to be very disappointed.
Everything you need to start a church!
PS: Read the disclaimer too.