To start a non-profit organization in Illinois, there are certain legal requirements that must be met. Firstly, the organization must have a valid purpose that falls under the umbrella of the state's charitable purposes, such as promoting education, religion, or relieving poverty. Once the purpose has been established, the organization must file articles of incorporation with the Illinois Secretary of State's office, along with a $50 filing fee.
The articles of incorporation should include the name of the organization, its purpose, duration (if limited), board of directors, and registered agent. The registered agent should be a legal resident of Illinois or a corporation that is authorized to do business in the state of Illinois. After filing, the organization must obtain a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS and register with the Illinois Attorney General's office to obtain a charitable solicitation license.
The non-profit organization must also establish a board of directors, adopt bylaws, and hold initial and subsequent meetings as required by the bylaws. The board of directors must be made up of individuals who are not related by blood or marriage and are not financially interested in the organization. The organization must also maintain accurate records and file annual reports with the Illinois Secretary of State's office and the IRS. In addition, the organization must comply with all applicable state and federal laws, including those governing financial disclosures and tax-exempt status.
It is important to note that there may be other requirements for starting a non-profit organization in Illinois depending on the specific purpose of the organization and its activities. It is recommended to seek legal advice from a licensed attorney to ensure that all legal requirements have been met.
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