Articles of Association of Unincorporated Charitable Association
What is this form?
The Articles of Association of Unincorporated Charitable Association is a legal document that establishes the governance structure and purposes of an unincorporated charitable organization. This form outlines the name, objectives, and rules for the operation and management of the association. Unlike other corporate documents, the Articles serve specifically for organizations seeking to operate for charitable purposes without formal incorporation, making it essential for non-profit initiatives that aim to provide community-benefiting services.
Key parts of this document
- Article One: Name - Specifies the official name of the association.
- Article Two: Purposes - Outlines the charitable objectives and restrictions on political involvement.
- Article Three: Property Dedication - Details the commitment of assets to charitable purposes and how they will be handled upon dissolution.
- Article Four: Membership - Defines eligibility criteria for individuals and organizations wishing to join the association.
- Article Five: Voting - Establishes the voting rights of members and representatives.
- Article Six: Trustees - Identifies the governing board and its responsibilities.
Situations where this form applies
This form is ideal for individuals or groups aiming to create a non-profit entity focused on charitable work. Use the Articles of Association when you are ready to formalize your organizationâs goals and structure, particularly if you plan to engage in activities that support education, religion, or community service. It is a necessary step for groups that want to seek tax-exempt status under IRS regulations.
Intended users of this form
This form is intended for:
- Individuals wanting to establish a charitable organization without formal incorporation.
- Community groups and non-profit organizations aiming to conduct charitable activities.
- Founders who plan to raise funds for educational, religious, or poverty alleviation purposes.
Instructions for completing this form
- Identify the name of your association and fill it in Article One.
- Clearly state the charitable purposes of your association in Article Two, providing specifics as needed.
- Dedicate any property or funds the association will hold in Article Three.
- Determine membership criteria and outline them in Article Four.
- Define voting procedures in Article Five, specifying the voting rights for members.
- Establish the governing structure, including the Board of Trustees in Article Six.
Notarization requirements for this form
This form does not typically require notarization unless specified by local law. However, it is advisable to check specific state requirements for additional validation or compliance needs.
Typical mistakes to avoid
- Failing to specify the charitable purposes clearly, which can affect the organizationâs compliance status.
- Not dedicating assets appropriately in Article Three, potentially leading to issues upon dissolution.
- Overlooking state-specific requirements that may necessitate additional clauses or information.
Advantages of online completion
- Immediate access to essential legal templates that are easy to download and customize.
- Time-saving process without the need for in-person consultations or appointments.
- Reliable and professionally drafted forms ensure compliance with legal standards and requirements.
Form popularity
FAQ
An unincorporated association can be a charity, but it does not have to be.An unincorporated association is not incorporated, so it cannot enter into contracts or own property in its own right. To set up an unincorporated association, all you need to do is write and agree a constitution in your group.
In order to form a nonprofit corporation, you must file articles of incorporation (sometimes called a "certificate of incorporation" or "charter document" or "articles of organization") with the state and pay a filing fee.
To set up an unincorporated association, all you need to do is write and agree a constitution in your group. If you do not plan to become a charity, your constitution should lay out whatever aims you want for your group.
Broadly, articles of incorporation should include the company's name, type of corporate structure, and number and type of authorized shares. Bylaws work in conjunction with the articles of incorporation to form the legal backbone of the business.
Nonprofit incorporation usually involves these steps: Choose a business name that is legally available in your state and file for an EIN (Employment Identification Number) Prepare and file your articles of incorporation with your state's corporate filing office, and pay a filing fee.
Legal Name of the Organization (Not taken by other companies in your State) Address of the Organization (Should be in the Incorporating State) Incorporator of the Nonprofit Organization.
The name of your corporation. your corporation's principal place of business. the name and address of your corporation's registered agent. a statement of the corporation's purpose. the corporation's duration. information about the number of shares and classes of stock the corporation is authorized to issue.
An unincorporated association serving in a volunteer capacity for the public good is considered an unincorporated nonprofit association. These organizations do not have to pay taxes or file a tax return if they have no more than $5,000 in revenues.
Whenever two or more people decide to work together to accomplish a common purpose, they've formed an unincorporated association. If that purpose is to generate a profit, then the unincorporated association they've formed is a partnership or a joint venture.
