Nonprofits Lawyers

What Is a Non-profit Corporation?

Generally, non-profit corporations are organized and structured much like regular corporations. The primary difference is that non-profits exist to fulfill a purpose, instead of purely to make money like regular corporations. Also, non-profits have tax-exempt status and are eligible for governmental and private funding.

What Groups Can Become Non-profit Corporations?

Qualifying as a non-profit depends on the activities your organization will perform. Generally, your organization's purpose must be one of the following:

• Charitable
• Educational
• Literary
• Religious
• Scientific

Often, artists, community service groups, musicians, and religious based organizations become non-profit corporations.

Non-Profits Are Tax Exempt

A non-profit is not required to pay any federal or state income taxes for activities related to its stated purpose. Additionally, private parties who donate or make contributions to a non-profit corporation receive a tax deduction.

Are There any Limitations on the Activities of a Non-profit?

Generally, in order for a non-profit corporation to maintain it's tax-exempt status, it must not engage in any of the following activities:

• Contribute money to political campaigns
• Engage in lobbying that would influence legislation to a "substantial degree"
• Distribute profits to officers, directors or members
• Make a "substantial" income from activities unrelated to its purpose

Additionally, if the non-profit dissolves, it must distribute its money and assets to another qualified non-profit corporation.

Non-Profit Directors and Officers

A non-profit has directors (sometimes called "trustees") and officers that make management and policy decisions. Generally, the officers and directors are shielded from the liabilities (such as debt and lawsuits) of the corporation. Non-profits do not, however, have shareholders (owners). A non-profit may have members with voting rights.

Should I Consult an Attorney with my Non-profit Corporation Issue?

Corporation laws vary depending on the state of incorporation. An attorney will help you determine what you need to do according to your state law. Timelines and deadlines for non-profit incorporation are extremely strict in many states. A lawyer can assist you with following all the detailed procedural rules, contacting all the necessary state and federal officials, and adhering to the deadlines for incorporating a non-profit corporation. Further, an attorney can give you advice as to the tax laws that will apply to your non-profit, and will help you follow the procedural rules of your state should you desire to dissolve.

Vea esta página en español: Hogar de Ancianos o visita Abogados-Leyes.com para más información legal.