How to Become a Nonprofit in Vermont
If you have a heart for helping the community and want to do it on a larger scale, register your "helping business" as a nonprofit organization. By registering as a nonprofit, you send a message that you are serious about the services and resources you provide. It also increases your chances of attracting donations for your cause. In Vermont, there is not a lot of red tape to become registered as a nonprofit organization. However, to operate legally you must be registered.
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Instructions
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Choose a name for your nonprofit corporation. The name must not be in use by another entity in Vermont. You can search for name availability using the "Corporation Search" tool located on the Vermont Secretary of State's website.
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Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). An EIN is the equivalent of a person's Social Security number and is required for the business activities of a nonprofit corporation. You can obtain an EIN immediately by using the EIN Assistant on the IRS website or by telephoning the IRS at 1-800-829-4933. You can also mail or fax Form SS-4 to the IRS. Form SS-4 can be obtained through the IRS website.
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Create your "Articles of Incorporation." The Articles of Incorporation is a set of rules and guidelines that govern how your organization will operate and to whom your organization will provide service.
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Sign and date the Articles of Incorporation. If you have a board of directors for your nonprofit organization, include the names and signatures of the board members. A board of directors is not required to become a nonprofit in Vermont. If you are the only individual operating the organization, your signature is sufficient.
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Submit the Articles of Incorporation with the $75 processing fee to the Corporations Division of the Vermont Secretary of State's office. You can submit the Articles of Incorporation via mail or in person.
In Person
Heritage 1 Building
81 River Street
Montpelier, VT 05609Postal Mail:
Corporations Division
Office of The Secretary of State
81 River Street -- Drawer 09
Montpelier, VT 05609 -
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Wait to receive your "Certificate of Incorporation." If you go in person, you will leave with your certificate in hand. However, if you submit the information via mail, the certificate's arrival depends on mail delivery times.
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Tips & Warnings
Becoming a nonprofit organization in Vermont does not mean that your organization is tax exempt. To be considered for tax exemption, you must apply for 501c3 tax-exempt status through the IRS.
References
Resources
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