Nonprofit Incorporation Checklist

Nonprofit Corporation Checklist:

  • Research goals and mission
  • Develop a plan and recruit board members
  • Establish Corporation
    • Adopt Articles of Incorporation and File with the State
    • Name the Board of Directors and adopt Bylaws
    • Obtain an EIN - Tax ID number by filing form SS-4 with the IRS
    • Obtain Tax Exempt status by filing Form 1023 with the IRS
  • Establish a Conflict of Interest Policy
  • Establish financial management
    • A corporate banking account,
    • An accounting system adequate for
      • organizational management
      • tax reporting
      • grant tracking
      • proving substantiation letters to contibutors
    • Meaningful financial oversight
    • Internal controls
  • Contact the state tax board for information about obtaining a state tax number and see if additional information must be submitted for state tax exemption from income tax and sales tax, etc.
  • Check with the state department of consumer affairs or business licensing to obtain any required business licenses or permits.
  • Contact the state Attorney General's Office to see if registration or reporting is required.
  • Find out about workers' compensation if you will have employees.
  • Protect your trade name
  • Order any required notices (advertisements you have to place) of your intent to begin operating in the community.
  • Check zoning laws.
  • Obtain city and/or county business licenses or permits.
    Get adequate insurance or a rider to a homeowner's policy.
  • Get tax information for employees, including guidelines for withholding taxes, information on hiring independent contractors, etc.
  • Apply for a federal non-profit mailing permit.
  • Order business cards and stationery.
  • Get an email address.
  • Set up your website.
  • Develop a Corporation Checklist of legal requirements for operation including:
    • Board Meetings
    • Tax Filings
    • State Filings
  • Ongoing steps to develop the organization
    • Educate and Assess the Board
    • Select, educate and evaluate the Director and key staff
    • Develop a strategic plan
      • Review vision and mission
      • Review programs and activities
      • Review financials, fundraising and legal compliance
      • Identify areas of growth and stagnation in the organization
      • Examine areas of possiblities for growth and needed services

 

Some links to other Nonprofit Sites.

 

Source: http://www.ahereford.com/nonprofit.html

 

Faith (for Content):