Creating an official non-profit organization

[TheRogue]

Has anyone handled the paperwork on this recently? Would it be worth involving an expert (attorney.....there, I said it) up front?

Specifically, a non-profit corporation for youth softball.

Help......

TR

[crazyinoregon]

Originally Posted by TheRogue

Has anyone handled the paperwork on this recently? Would it be worth involving an expert (attorney.....there, I said it) up front?

Specifically, a non-profit corporation for youth softball.

Help......

TR

personally i think that i would certainly have legal advisement. seems like most 501's have volunteer boards, grant writers and cheifs ie president, vp, etc. I dont know if that is completely necessary for the legal/tax part or not.....food for thought though
this might give you some thoughts or ideas : http://www.usarugby.org/media/EDocs/...up_a_501c3.pdf

[Ildor]

Talk to your accountant first. Granted a non-profit is more complicated but my accountant pointed me in the right direction when forming and S-corp. Did it all myself with minimal guidance after he got me started. Saved me around $1000 in attorneys fees.

[garyk]

Thoughts -

1. I suppose you've already explored running that program through an existing organization, whether another NPO or a school district? That's the easiest...if you don't mind giving up control.

2. The filing paperwork is straightforward - so is rebuilding a boat motor. So you know what I mean -- everything's easy if you've seen it, done it before and fully understand it.

An attorney will get it done a lot faster, and that might be worth the expenditure of $500 - $1000 to you.

Also, unless you have board members with a solid grasp of NPO operations, you'll probably have to go back to your attorney for answers and advice.

WHichever route you take, you will want to do some studying of NPO operations, management, annual reporting and IRS compliance, and required State filing.

Originally Posted by TheRogue

Has anyone handled the paperwork on this recently? Would it be worth involving an expert (attorney.....there, I said it) up front?

Specifically, a non-profit corporation for youth softball.

Help......

TR

[matttheduck]

I'd advise involving a professional. The IRS is scrutinizing these applications more closely and I think you will end up saving yourself money, time and headaches in the long run.

[Fish Killer]

If I were to set one up, I would attempt to do it myself. I believe all you need is a federal ID number.

Also, in the past you didn't need to report to the IRS every year unless you had over around $25,000 in revenue.

You couldn't go wrong by calling the IRS and asking what is required.

[Pete]

What is your reason for wanting to form a non-profit? There are tax exemption limits for some types of organizations and group liability insurance if either of those is a concern. First stop should be the Secretary of State's office for some friendly advice. They will get you pointed in the right direction.

[rojo]

give Rita a call....R