They are necessary. Your nonprofit does not need to file bylaws with the Texas Secretary of State, but they are required to obtain tax-exempt status with the IRS.
As Chief Elections Officer for Texas, the Secretary is responsible for ensuring the uniform application and interpretation of election laws throughout Texas as stipulated by the Texas Election Code — the “law of the land” for Texas voters, elections, voting systems, candidates, and political parties.
Non-U.S. corporations, LLCs, LPs and financial institutions must register with the secretary of state before transacting business in Texas. Such entities are subject to state franchise tax and federal income tax on certain income.
The secretary of state does not maintain the bylaws or tax exempt filings of any nonprofit organization. Some organizations that have obtained tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service are required to make certain documents available to the public.
The state of Texas requires you to file Form 202 to incorporate a nonprofit organization and raise funds. Form 202 is the Texas certificate of formation for all nonprofits including 501(c)3. Unlike most states, 501(c)3 and other nonprofits do not have to register with the state before soliciting funds.
No, but signing them is a smart idea. We recommend having your officers and directors sign your bylaws to affirm that they sign on to your policies.
Corporations are legally required to adopt bylaws in Texas – Section 21.057 of the Texas Business Organizations Code states that the board of directors of a corporation shall adopt initial bylaws. So, if your company gets caught in a legal battle without bylaws, you could face some serious legal consequences.
How do I submit my documents to the secretary of state for filing? Online: SOSDirect (electronic filing of many, but not all, types of documents) Fax: (512) 463-5709. Mail: Corporations Section. P. O. Box 13697. Austin, Texas 78711-3697. Delivery: James Earl Rudder Office Building. 1019 Brazos. Austin, Texas 78701.