Starting a Non-Profit? Follow These Legal Guidelines

Non-profit organizations can serve such noble purposes, between helping mistreated children to providing shelter to the homeless. The people behind the non-profits in this area really make a difference in our community and it makes us proud to be part of the non-profit organizations we are in. Our attorneys at the Lake of the Ozarks have put together some guidelines to help those who are thinking of setting up a non-profit organization. If you are interested in starting a non-profit organization and want to know how to protect it legally, give Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter and Welch a call at 573-346-7231.




The Legal Guidelines for Starting a Non-Profit Organization


Guideline #1
Make sure to file your application for tax exempt status with the IRS.
In order to be federally tax-exempt, you must file an application for exempt status with the IRS and your application must be approved.  This application tends to be long and tedious.  It is beneficial to have a tax expert assist you.

Guideline #2
Obtain your 501c3 tax exemption status.
One you have achieved federal tax exemption, you must then file to be tax exempt within the state of Missouri. To find out what the requirements are for that, visit: http://dor.mo.gov/faq/business/corporate.php.

Guideline #3
Choose your board of directors wisely.
Your board of directors will be responsible for many important decisions to be made and you'll want a group of people you can trust. Choose wisely and try to find people whose passions align with yours and why you started this non-profit organization in the first place.

Guideline #4
Know the answers to these commonly asked questions regarding non-profits.

Q: What is the legal definition of a non-profit?

A: Non-profit organizations are normally tax exempt on the federal and state level. These organizations are created for purposes in the realm of the following reasons:

Charitable
Educational
Religious
Scientific
Literary

Q: Do you have to be a certain age to start a non-profit organization?

A: No, there are no age requirements to start a non-profit organization.




Starting a Non-Profit Can Be Difficult Because You Are Entering Into The Unknown.


Our law office in Camdenton is here to help. We understand what you may be going through and we know it may seem overwhelming. Our experienced attorneys know how to make sure your non-profit is legally protected. Call us at 573-346-7231 for a free consultation. We are available for evening and weekend appointments. Our firm is conveniently located by the Camden County courthouse, and we have an open door policy for clients to just stop by and discuss their legal needs.



Law Offices of Phillips, McElyea, Carpenter, & Welch, P.C.
The choice of a lawyer is an important decision and should not be based solely on advertising. When you need a knowledgeable attorney, we invite you to contact us to set up a consultation. Evening and weekend appointments are available. We have access to interpreters.

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85 Court Circle N.W., P.O. Box 559
Camdenton, MO 65020   GET A MAP
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