The state of California requires a minimum of one board member for each organization. It is recommended that your organization have at least three since the IRS will most likely not give 501(c)(3) status to an organization with less. 3-25 directors are recommended based on the size and purpose of your nonprofit.
501(c)(3) nonprofits apply using Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ. Review the criteria for each application and make sure you meet the eligibility requirements set out by the IRS. Other types of nonprofits, including 501(c)(4)s and 501(c)(6)s, apply using Form 1024.
Although organizations don't need to file these bylaws with the state, California law requires that the treasurer or other designated member of the organization maintains a copy on file.
Yes, if you operate a commercially-based or home-based nonprofit business, organization, or institution, you are required to secure a “Non-Profit” Business License. Information supporting qualification of your business as a “non-profit” must be furnished.
Under California law, you must have a quorum of at least two directors or one-fifth of all authorized directors (whichever is larger) to take valid action at a board meeting. Your organization's bylaws may set higher quorum limits, so be sure to take a look through them before proceeding.
Under California law, a nonprofit board may be composed of as few as one director, but the IRS may take issue with granting recognition of 501(c)(3) status to a nonprofit with only one director.
Ing to a study by Bain Capital Private Equity, the optimal number of directors for boards to make a decision is seven. Every added board member after that decreases decision-making by 10%. Nonprofits can use that as a starting metric before considering the organization's life cycle, mission and fundraising needs.
California requires a minimum of one director, but the IRS will rarely give tax-exempt status to organizations with less than three directors.