Articles of incorporation, also known as the "charter" or "certificate of incorporation," is a legal document you must file with the state government when establishing a nonprofit organization. Articles of incorporation for a nonprofit are essential because they establish the legal foundation for your organization, define its purpose and structure, and enable you to gain tax-exempt status, among other benefits. They are a fundamental step in creating and maintaining a nonprofit entity.

Your specialist will complete your articles of incorporation for you to review and file with the state.

Bylaws for a nonprofit organization are a set of rules and regulations that govern the internal operations and management of the organization. They are a critical document that outlines how the nonprofit will be run, including its structure, decision-making processes, and various operational procedures.

We will draft customized bylaws tailored to your nonprofit organization, outlining governance procedures for the board of directors and incorporating specific provisions mandated by the IRS.

A nonprofit conflict of interest policy is a formal document outlining guidelines and procedures for addressing conflicts within the organization, ensuring transparency, accountability, and ethical operation. This policy promotes transparency through mandatory conflict disclosure among board members, officers, and key employees. It establishes conflict resolution procedures, upholds integrity, and complies with state and regulatory requirements, along with IRS encouragement. It offers legal protection and reputation management by setting conflict-handling expectations and aligning decisions with the nonprofit's best interests, making it essential for governance.

Your specialist will create a conflict of interest policy which applies to your board of directors. This policy is required by the IRS when applying for 501(c)(3) status.

A Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN), issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), is a unique nine-digit identifier vital for nonprofit organizations. It's indispensable for tax reporting, facilitating financial transactions, managing employment taxes, applying for tax-exempt status, meeting legal and compliance requirements, and protecting individuals' identities. Whether filing tax returns, opening bank accounts, or conducting various nonprofit operations, the EIN is a fundamental requirement that ensures the smooth functioning and compliance of your nonprofit entity.

We obtain a new Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS for your organization.

Form 1023-EZ is a simplified version of IRS Form 1023, used by U.S. nonprofit organizations to apply for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. It's designed for smaller nonprofits with annual gross receipts of $50,000 or less and total assets of $250,000 or less. This streamlined form simplifies the application process, making it quicker and less complex. However, organizations should carefully review IRS eligibility criteria to determine if they qualify for Form 1023-EZ or if they should use the full Form 1023. Eligibility rules may change, so it's important to consult current IRS guidelines when seeking tax-exempt status.

501(c)(3) approval is the IRS-issued recognition that a nonprofit organization in the United States qualifies for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, granting tax benefits, eligibility for grants, and enhanced credibility while imposing compliance obligations.

Your specialist will ensure the thorough completion of your application, identifying all necessary schedules, attachments, and supporting information, and will handle any essential follow-up with the IRS until your group successfully obtains its 501(c)(3) status.

Initial Fundraising Registration refers to the mandatory process by which charitable organizations seek legal authorization to solicit donations from the public in specific states. This process is vital because fundraising activities are regulated at the state level in the United States, and each state has its own distinct set of requirements and regulations. To initiate this process, charitable organizations must typically submit comprehensive applications to the respective state agencies, often under the purview of the Attorney General's office, detailing financial information, fundraising plans, governance structures, and more. Fees, supporting documentation, and ongoing reporting obligations may also be part of the registration process. Compliance with these state-specific requirements is essential to ensure nonprofits can legally engage in fundraising activities and avoid potential legal issues or penalties.

Your specialist will complete your initial fundraising registration application and send the completed documents to you for filing.