Many people in Florida decide to establish non-profit organizations affiliated with schools, churches, charitable groups or other non-profit associations. Florida law requires non-profit groups to have boards consisting of at least three members. Board members do not have to reside in Florida, but you cannot have board members under the age of 18. The board controls the non-profit and establishes bank accounts, arranges fund raisers and makes all the decisions related to the organization.
Instructions
1. Hold a board meeting and decide on a name for your non-profit group. Go to sunbiz.org, the website of the Florida Department of State Division of Corporations. On the homepage select "Look up a business," and on the next screen select "Inquire by name." You can search for the name you plan to use for your organization to ensure no existing entity already uses the same name. If the name you choose has been taken, think of another name and check on its availability.
2. Write up the Articles of Incorporation for your group. This document must include the name of the group, business address and name and address of the registered agent. The registered agent is normally one of the directors or chairman of the group. You must also list the names of the directors, purpose of the organization and names of the individuals involved in incorporating the group. Normally, those involved in incorporating are also the directors.
3. Go online to sunbiz.org and under the header that says "E-Filing Services," select "Articles of Incorporation for Florida NonProfit Corporation," from the drop-down menu. Click the box to say you accept the submission disclaimer, and then select the radio button that says "accept filing and pay fees." Complete the non-profit filing screen with the information listed in your articles of incorporation. You must pay a $70 fee using your debit or credit card. The fee includes the $35 filing fee and $35 designation of agent fee. You should also select the box to pay $8.75 for a Certificate of Status. This optional form enables you to demonstrate to prospective donors that you have registered with the state.
4. Go to the IRS.gov website, and on the homepage select "Business." On the left-hand side of the next screen, select "Employer Id Numbers." On the EIN screen, select "apply online." On the next screen, select "Apply Online Now," and on the following page select "Begin Application." Choose the last button on the legal structure screen and continue to follow onscreen prompts to complete your application. You need the EIN to establish bank accounts and hire employees.
5. Hold a board meeting to discuss fund raising plans and make a budget. You can establish bank accounts now that you have the EIN.
Tags: screen select, bank accounts, next screen, next screen select, Articles Incorporation, board meeting
