Are you looking to start a nonprofit in Montana? You’ve come to the right place. Known for its vibrant community and rich culture, Montana (often referred to as The Treasure State) is an ideal location for establishing a nonprofit organization. Unlike for-profit businesses, nonprofits focus on addressing pressing social issues and require a strong foundation, thorough research, and a clear mission targeting a specific community problem.
Embarking on the journey of creating a nonprofit entails various crucial steps, such as obtaining 501(c)(3) status. A 501(c)(3) organization is designed for charitable, religious, educational purposes, and more, qualifying it for federal and state tax exemptions.
In the spirit of Montana’s motto, “Gold and silver (Oro y plata),” thousands of nonprofits are founded within the state each year. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to starting your own nonprofit corporation in Montana. Keep in mind that the steps discussed here are general guidelines, and modifications may be necessary depending on your specific circumstances. To gain a deep understanding of how to start a nonprofit in Montana, we encourage you to read this article in its entirety.
On this page, you’ll learn about the following:
- What is a Nonprofit in Montana?
- Types of Nonprofits in Montana
- How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Montana
- Step 1: Get a Suitable Name for Your Montana Nonprofit Corp
- Step 2: Appoint the Initial Board of Directors
- Step 3: Appoint Your Montana Registered Agent
- Step 4: Write Montana Nonprofit Bylaws
- Step 5: File the Montana Articles of Incorporation
- Step 6: Obtain Tax ID for Your Montana Nonprofit Corporation
- Step 7: Get Business Licenses in Montana
- Step 8: Federal Tax Exemption
- Step 9: State Tax Exemption
- Step 10: Get Insurance for Your Montana Nonprofit
- After Forming Your Montana Nonprofit Corporation
- FAQs
What is a Nonprofit in Montana?
Nonprofit organizations are legal entities that operate to serve public benefits and address community issues. Unlike for-profit organizations, nonprofits do not aim to generate any profit. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) generally exempts nonprofit organizations from tax. However, based on the business entity structure, you will receive tax exemptions as a nonprofit.
In Montana, ensure you have a community issue to address before you start forming your nonprofit. It can generally be education, religion, charity, social service, or other social issues. Nonprofits do not pay taxes on the money they receive through fundraising programs, donations, or any charitable funding.
Types of Nonprofits in Montana
The first thing one has to decide is what type of nonprofit structure one wants. There are several types of nonprofits one can start. Here is a list of nonprofit types one can choose from-
- Nonprofit LLC
- Nonprofit Corporation
- Unincorporated Nonprofit
Forming an LLC in Montana for your nonprofit can be a smooth option. However, having a corporation is less complex than having a nonprofit LLC. Hence, it is wise to start a nonprofit corporation instead of an unincorporated nonprofit or nonprofit LLC.
– LLCBuddy Editorial Team.
Technically, starting a corporation for your nonprofit protects your personal assets but also is eligible for Federal and State tax exemptions. When you form an LLC for your nonprofit, it only protects your personal assets but does not give you any tax exemptions. On the other hand, a nonprofit Corporation has both corporation and limited liability company benefits. You can also have an unincorporated structure where you don’t have to register it. Unincorporated nonprofits in Montana might be eligible for tax exemptions (check with Montana Department of Revenue), but this type of organization does not get to enjoy limited liability and personal asset protection.
How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Montana
Setting up a nonprofit corporation requires a few things to consider. Name of the nonprofit, initial directors, drafting bylaws, get a Registered Agent, obtain tax IDs, insurance, and a bank account – these are important steps you must follow. The steps mentioned here are general business formation steps. State-wise, some steps can be different. Getting an expert consultation before you start your nonprofit corporation formation is recommended. Here are the steps explained below-
Step 1: Get a Suitable Name for Your Montana Nonprofit Corp
The first step is to name your nonprofit corporation. You must be sure that the name is available and that no other organization is using this name. You can check the Montana LLC name search to find the best suitable name for your organization. You must follow those rules to avoid any legal issues later. You can reserve the name for 120 days for any domestic entity (such as a nonprofit LLC) if you’re not forming the nonprofit immediately.
Step 2: Appoint the Initial Board of Directors
The next step is to get your nonprofit’s initial board of directors. It is very important when you are setting up a nonprofit corporation. You need at least Three unrelated directors to start the organization. If you don’t choose a minimum of Three directors, it will automatically become a member-managed corporation.
Step 3: Appoint Your Montana Registered Agent
The third step is to get a Montana Registered Agent for your nonprofit corporation. The Registered Agent is a person who receives all the legal documents on your behalf. It is necessary to get a registered agent. He/she must be above 18 years old and have a physical address in Montana.
Step 4: Write Montana Nonprofit Bylaws
The next important step is to write the company bylaws. The directors and board members must decide how the meetings, elections, voting, and other corporate activities will be held. These bylaws must comply with the Montana state law. It is similar to an LLC operating agreement in Montana for the LLC owners.
Step 5: File the Montana Articles of Incorporation
This is the most important step. File your Articles of Incorporation with the Montana Secretary of State. You can do it through one method, that is online. All the formation forms, such as the Montana LLC Articles of Organization form, the Montana Articles of Incorporation form for corporations, forms for LLPs, and all others can be found on the Montana SOS official website. Submit the details of your nonprofit corporation, like the name of the nonprofit, address, name and address of the registered agent, operation dates, directors’ details, and more information related to your company. You can send the form (for offline filing) and the filing fee of $70 for filing online. to the State Capitol, Room 260 ~ PO Box 202801 Helena, Montana 59620-2801 or upload it online (if available).
Step 6: Obtain Tax ID for Your Montana Nonprofit Corporation
The subsequent step involves obtaining a Tax ID for your nonprofit corporation. You will need to acquire an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the official IRS website. To obtain the EIN, submit your application to the IRS office either by mail or through their online platform. There is no associated cost for this process.
Step 7: Get Business Licenses in Montana
The next step is to get the business licenses you need to run your nonprofit organization in Montana. Check with the local government office if any special licenses you need to run your nonprofit. You can file your nonprofit as a charity if you want.
Step 8: Federal Tax Exemption
You must submit Form 1023 to the IRS to file for federal tax exemption. This form, titled “Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code,” is required for all nonprofit corporations. Smaller nonprofits have the option to file Form 1023-EZ instead. You will be prompted to provide details about your organization upon obtaining the relevant form. Complete the form with the necessary information and submit it. The filing fees are $600 for Form 1023 and $275 for Form 1023-EZ.
Step 9: State Tax Exemption
Once you get the Federal Tax Exempt, it is time for State Tax Exempt. In Montana, you must apply for the tax exemption to Montana Department of Revenue. Get the form, fill it up with the correct details, and send it to the office. You may need to pay a fee along with the form and supportive documents to apply for the State Tax Exemption. You need Tax-Exempt Request Form to apply for the state tax exemption. Read Montana classification of taxes to learn more about the Montana tax structure.
Step 10: Get Insurance for Your Montana Nonprofit
Once you start your nonprofit, you must get insurance to protect your organization. You must get workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance if you have employees. Based on your nonprofit structure, you might need general liability insurance, property, vehicle, auto insurance, etc. You can contact the insurance providers to learn more about which are required for your organization. Also, you can contact Montana State Auditor’s Office, Insurance and Securities Division for more information.
After Forming Your Montana Nonprofit Corporation
Once your nonprofit is formed, there are additional steps to complete:
- Get a Business Bank Account: You must get a business account for all types of business-related transactions in Montana. You may need different documents based on the bank and place of business. Check with the bank for it.
- File Nonprofit as Charity: This is optional. Your nonprofit is either for charity purposes or any purpose that meets your community’s needs. If your organization is for charity purposes, then you can file your nonprofit as a charity to enjoy tax exemptions.
- Other Business Compliances: You may need additional compliances based on your nonprofit type. Check with your attorney or local authority for more information.
Names of Nonprofit Corporations in Montana
Following are some of the Nonprofit Organizations in Montana. The contact information of these organizations can be found on Montana SOS official websites.
- Florence Charities
- Forsyth Charities
- Fort Benton Charities
- Frenchtown Charities
- Gallatin Gateway Charities
- Gardiner Charities
- Glasgow Charities
- Glendive Charities.
FAQs
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Why Montana Nonprofit Corporation is So Important
One of the key reasons why nonprofit corporations are so important in Montana is their ability to connect with and advocate for underserved populations. Many nonprofits in the state focus on issues such as poverty, homelessness, mental health, and substance abuse, providing vital services and resources to those in need. Whether it’s through direct assistance, advocacy efforts, or community outreach programs, these organizations have a deep understanding of the unique challenges facing Montana residents and work tirelessly to address them.
Nonprofit corporations also play a crucial role in preserving Montana’s natural environment and supporting sustainable practices. From conservation organizations to wildlife protection groups, these nonprofits are dedicated to preserving the state’s natural beauty and resources for future generations. By promoting environmental education, advocating for legislative action, and implementing conservation initiatives, these organizations help ensure that Montana remains a place of unparalleled natural beauty and ecological richness.
In addition to addressing pressing social and environmental issues, nonprofit corporations in Montana also contribute to the state’s economic development and overall well-being. These organizations create jobs, stimulate economic growth, and foster innovation in communities across the state. From providing job training programs to supporting local businesses, nonprofits play a key role in promoting economic prosperity and improving the quality of life for all residents of Montana.
Furthermore, nonprofit corporations in Montana serve as a vital source of volunteerism and civic engagement, mobilizing individuals to give back to their communities and make a positive impact. Whether it’s through hands-on volunteer projects or fundraising events, nonprofits provide opportunities for residents to get involved, connect with others, and contribute to the greater good. By fostering a sense of community and belonging, these organizations help create a more inclusive and cohesive society in Montana.
Overall, the importance of nonprofit corporations in Montana cannot be overstated. These organizations are a pillar of the state’s social, economic, and environmental well-being, and their impact is felt in every corner of the state. From supporting vulnerable populations to preserving natural resources, nonprofits play a vital role in improving the quality of life for all residents of Montana. As we move forward, it is essential that we continue to support and strengthen the nonprofit sector, as it is truly the backbone of our state’s resilience, compassion, and progress.
Conclusion
Starting a nonprofit corporation in Montana is an incredible way to give back to your community and positively impact the causes that matter most to you. By forming a nonprofit, you can provide essential services, promote awareness, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those who need it most. In Montana, a lot of nonprofit organizations are there to cater to people in need. Starting a nonprofit corporation is better than an LLC, as it provides limited liability and tax benefits. It helps you save taxes. If you want to start a nonprofit in Montana, you must follow the steps mentioned above in the article.