legal issues : charity

Discussion in 'Legal Issues' started by hima, Dec 18, 2007.

  1. #1
    Hi all,

    I am looking for some resources to find information regarding charity firms and their common legal and ethical issues ALso the issues in launching and maintaining a charity website.

    Also if i make it available on iPhone, what could be the possible issues the site can face?
     
    hima, Dec 18, 2007 IP
  2. craigedmonds

    craigedmonds Notable Member

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    #2
    Re the iphone issue, if you are just launching a web site and making it available through the safari browser then there is no issue, its just a web browser like everything else.

    Unless I completely misunderstood what you meant.
     
    craigedmonds, Dec 19, 2007 IP
  3. bluegrass special

    bluegrass special Peon

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    #3
    Charity regulations depend on the country you reside in. So, where are you?
     
    bluegrass special, Dec 20, 2007 IP
  4. Jim4767

    Jim4767 Prominent Member

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    #4
    The website part is easy. But you have lots of preliminary work to do first. I've started two nonprofits approved by the IRS under section 501(c)(3). As a minimum:

    • You will have to incorporate as a charity under the laws of your state. Before incorporating, be sure to read carefully the Form 1023 I mention in the next paragraph. It will tell you of certain statements that absolutely must be included in your articles of incorporation. If you leave them out, forget about receiving IRS approval. The services of a lawyer thoroughly familiar with nonprofits, charities, etc., is indispensible.

    • You will have to file IRS Form 1023 and have IRS approve you as a 501(c)(3) charity. This is a complex form requiring much detailed data. Look up a copy online. And after you have filled out the form and filed it, expect the IRS to write back requesting even more information. It is not easy to be approved as a tax-exempt charity in the USA.
     
    Jim4767, Dec 20, 2007 IP