Incorporation authorizes organizations to function as non-profit charities.
Nonprofit organizations are not necessarily required to incorporate. However, incorporation offers nonprofit organizations various benefits. For example, incorporation allows organizations to apply for public or private grant money and to solicit tax-deductible contributions. Incorporation also affords nonprofit organizations certain legal protections, such as limited liability for the organization's activities.
Instructions
1. Determine your state's laws on the incorporation of a nonprofit organization by calling the secretary of state's office or visiting the secretary of state's website. Most states simply require filing an application, submission of founding documents and the payment of any applicable filing fees. Obtain any required application forms for incorporation from the secretary of state's website.
2. Appoint a registered agent. The registered agent is the person who accepts legal documents on the nonprofit organization's behalf. Registered agents are often, but not always, attorneys. Registered agents must be at least 18 years old, mentally competent and a resident of the state in which the organization conducts business.
3. Draft articles of incorporation for the nonprofit organization. In these articles, state the organization's basic mission and overall purpose. Draft the bylaws of the organization that will serve to govern future boards of directors.
4. Complete the application for incorporation, which will require you identify the registered agent and the agent's contact information. You will also have to list the board of directors at the time of incorporation and the contact information for founding directors. Provide the physical address of the organization's headquarters or primary office.
5. File the application, articles of i0ncorporation, bylaws and any other required documents with the secretary of state. Pay any applicable filing fees.
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