Thinking about starting a nonprofit... any legal stuff I should know?

Brown said:
Create bylaws and governance policies. They act as your internal rulebook.

Good governance keeps things running smoothly and keeps donors happy.

Don’t forget to register for state and local requirements. This might include charity registration or business licenses.

Luca said:
Don’t forget to register for state and local requirements. This might include charity registration or business licenses.

What happens if I don’t register?

Quinby said:

Luca said:
Don’t forget to register for state and local requirements. This might include charity registration or business licenses.

What happens if I don’t register?

You could face fines or be unable to solicit donations legally.

Luca said:
Don’t forget to register for state and local requirements. This might include charity registration or business licenses.

Some areas also require sales tax exemption applications if you’re selling goods.

If you’re hiring staff or have volunteers, make sure to comply with employment laws.

Noor said:
If you’re hiring staff or have volunteers, make sure to comply with employment laws.

What kind of employment laws should I be aware of?

CharlotteAmelia said:

Noor said:
If you’re hiring staff or have volunteers, make sure to comply with employment laws.

What kind of employment laws should I be aware of?

Minimum wage, tax withholding, worker’s comp, and volunteer management policies.

Noor said:
If you’re hiring staff or have volunteers, make sure to comply with employment laws.

Also, clear roles and rights help avoid conflicts down the line.

Fundraising compliance is key. You need to register before soliciting funds and keep accurate records.

Ben said:
Fundraising compliance is key. You need to register before soliciting funds and keep accurate records.

What does registering for fundraising involve?

Noe said:

Ben said:
Fundraising compliance is key. You need to register before soliciting funds and keep accurate records.

What does registering for fundraising involve?

It varies by state, but generally you need to file forms and disclose how funds will be used.

Ben said:
Fundraising compliance is key. You need to register before soliciting funds and keep accurate records.

Make sure to issue donation receipts properly to comply with tax laws.

Ty said:
@Willow
Why are donation receipts important?

They allow donors to claim tax deductions, which can encourage more donations.

Establishing financial controls is a must. You’ll need to file annual tax returns like IRS Form 990.

Madison said:
Establishing financial controls is a must. You’ll need to file annual tax returns like IRS Form 990.

Is Form 990 complicated?

Jaden said:

Madison said:
Establishing financial controls is a must. You’ll need to file annual tax returns like IRS Form 990.

Is Form 990 complicated?

It can be, depending on your nonprofit’s size and activities. Consider getting an accountant.

Madison said:
Establishing financial controls is a must. You’ll need to file annual tax returns like IRS Form 990.

Also, having an audit committee or external audits helps maintain transparency.

Don’t overlook intellectual property. Trademark your name and logo to protect your brand.

Tan said:
Don’t overlook intellectual property. Trademark your name and logo to protect your brand.

How do I trademark something?