Non- Profit Corporations

The formation of a new non-profit corporation is an exciting event. Brown & Brown, PC is grateful to those who are willing to take the time for charitable ventures and we are pleased to help with the initial process. While still a corporation, a traditional “non-profit” is slightly different than the domestic “for profit” corporation and requires a entirely different approach, both before the entity is created and once it is up and running.  We have become well versed with the requirements for forming both Massachusetts and New Hampshire non-profits, and are pleased to assist your new organization. 

After it is first created, a non-profit needs to register with the Secretary of State in order to begin operations. We can assist you with name verification and filing of the Articles of Organization.  In doing so, we can work with your group to ensure proper selection of officers and directors for the group.  

Although registration is the first step, the structure of bylaws is equally, if not more, important because many charitable organizations are volunteer driven and rely on proper bylaws for a solid document to fall back on for answers to organizational questions, membership issues, resolution of operating procedures and a path for growth and dissolution in keeping with IRS regulations.  Brown & Brown will work with your group to ensure that your bylaws not only reflect your own vision but are in keeping with requirements for exempt organizations.  

To open a bank account, your group will need a Federal Tax Identification number. We can help you to apply for an ID number, even prior to obtaining your non-profit status.  Concurrently, we will work with you to apply for the appropriate tax-exempt status with the IRS. The application, while cumbersome, clearly defines what is required in order to qualify for tax-exempt status, and Brown & Brown has a proven track record of obtaining exempt status for our clients.  

In addition to filing with the Secretary of State’s office, charitable groups are required to register with the Attorney General’s office of their home state. We can assist your organization with the initial filing as well as with any required annual reporting with both the Secretary of State and Attorney General’s offices. Massachusetts and New Hampshire each have different reporting requirements, but Brown & Brown can help your group sort out what is required and will advise you as to which forms may be appropriate for your particular status.