Kentucky Non Profit Corporation Form

What is the Kentucky Non Profit Corporation

A Kentucky non profit corporation is an organization formed under Kentucky state law to operate for a charitable, educational, religious, or other public purpose. Unlike for-profit entities, these corporations do not distribute profits to members or shareholders. Instead, any surplus revenue is reinvested into the organization’s mission. To establish a Kentucky non profit corporation, specific legal requirements must be met, including filing articles of incorporation with the Kentucky Secretary of State.

Steps to complete the Kentucky Non Profit Corporation

Completing the formation of a Kentucky non profit corporation involves several key steps:

1. Choose a name: The name must be unique and not similar to existing entities in Kentucky.
2. Draft the articles of incorporation: This document outlines the corporation's purpose, structure, and governance.
3. File the articles: Submit the completed articles of incorporation to the Kentucky Secretary of State, along with the required filing fee.
4. Create bylaws: Bylaws govern the internal operations of the corporation and should be adopted by the board of directors.
5. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN): This is necessary for tax purposes and can be acquired from the IRS.
6. Apply for tax-exempt status: If applicable, file for 501(c)(3) status with the IRS to gain federal tax exemption.

Required Documents

To establish a Kentucky non profit corporation, several documents are essential:

• Articles of Incorporation: This primary document must include the corporation's name, purpose, registered agent, and duration.
• Bylaws: These internal rules govern the management of the corporation.
• Employer Identification Number (EIN): This number is necessary for tax filings and opening bank accounts.
• Tax-exempt application (if applicable): Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ must be filed with the IRS for 501(c)(3) status.

Legal use of the Kentucky Non Profit Corporation

The legal use of a Kentucky non profit corporation is primarily to serve a public or community benefit. This may include activities related to education, health, arts, or social services. Non profit corporations must adhere to both state and federal regulations, including maintaining transparency in financial reporting and governance. Compliance with these regulations is essential to retain tax-exempt status and ensure the organization operates within the law.

Eligibility Criteria

To form a Kentucky non profit corporation, certain eligibility criteria must be met:

• Purpose: The organization must operate for a lawful purpose that benefits the public.
• Members: There must be at least three directors who are not related by blood or marriage.
• Registered agent: The corporation must designate a registered agent with a physical address in Kentucky.

Form Submission Methods (Online / Mail / In-Person)

Filing for a Kentucky non profit corporation can be accomplished through various methods:

• Online: Applications can be submitted electronically via the Kentucky Secretary of State’s website.
• Mail: Completed forms can be printed and sent to the Secretary of State’s office by postal mail.
• In-Person: Documents may also be filed in person at the Secretary of State’s office in Frankfort, Kentucky.