NONPROFIT LAW
Nonprofit organizations serve a pivotal role, fulfilling many social needs that are not otherwise addressed in the governmental and for-profit sector. As a result, nonprofit organizations receive special taxation benefits in recognition of their contributions to society. To ensure that nonprofit organizations qualify for those taxation benefits, and individuals responsible for those organizations do not abuse those special tax benefits, the government exercises oversight over those organizations.
State and federal regulations applicable to nonprofit organizations vary depending on the organization’s purpose, funding sources, and size. The legal and reporting requirements and governmental bureaucracy can be overwhelming, and the consequences of making an error can be costly. Smith Law offers valuable legal guidance and advice to assist Wisconsin and Minnesota nonprofits in the following areas:
State and federal regulations applicable to nonprofit organizations vary depending on the organization’s purpose, funding sources, and size. The legal and reporting requirements and governmental bureaucracy can be overwhelming, and the consequences of making an error can be costly. Smith Law offers valuable legal guidance and advice to assist Wisconsin and Minnesota nonprofits in the following areas:
- Choosing the nonprofit form
- Incorporating and registering as a nonprofit
- Obtaining and maintaining 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
- Bylaws for nonprofits
- Board of directors governance matters
- For-profit and not-for-profit related entities
- Nonprofit fundraising requirements and restrictions
- Avoiding unrelated business income tax
- Handling earmarked funds inquiries
- Self-dealing, excess benefit, and private benefit transaction issues
- Misuse of nonprofit funds issues
- Required policies and procedures for nonprofits
- Conflict of interest issues
- Breach of fiduciary duty inquiries
- Contracts and leases for nonprofits
- Charitable gift and bequest policies and guidance for nonprofits
- Compliance with tax reporting requirements
- Volunteer v. paid employee inquiries
- Confidentiality matters