Establishing & Organizing Non-Profit Organizations

Because they promote the general welfare, the Internal Revenue Code exempts approximately 30 different types of organizations from paying federal income tax. In addition, donations or gifts made to such organizations are often a source of tax deductions for individuals and businesses (for-profit organizations). Broadly defined, an exempt organization promotes a social or group mission and pays none of its income or profits to private individuals (such as officers, members, or shareholders).

Lanier Ford attorneys help individuals or groups establish such organizations in the following ways, among others:

• Assisting in choosing the form of the organization (corporation, trust, or association).
• Drafting organizational documents, such as articles of incorporation and bylaws.
• Checking on the availability of the name chosen by the organizers.
• Applying for the federal tax identification number.
• Making sure the organization meets the requirements for being tax exempt and completing the paperwork necessary to receive the tax-exempt status.
• Applying for state and local registrations and permits.

Among others, Lanier Ford attorneys assist clients in establishing and organizing the following:

• Religious organizations.
• Charities.
• Organizations that promote educational, scientific, agricultural, horticultural, or literary pursuits.
• Organizations that prevent cruelty to children or animals.
• Civic leagues.
• Employee associations.
• Labor organizations.
• Business leagues.
• Social clubs.
• Private and community foundations.

Finally, Lanier Ford attorneys also assist boards of directors in operating and managing their non-profit organizations:

See related service areas:

• Contracts, Agreements & Commercial Transactions
• Employment Law
• Intellectual Property

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