Question about Nonprofit -- Looking for Business people
@LilyoftheThorns (12918)
United States
February 25, 2011 2:12pm CST
Okay! So a lot of you know I have big plans about starting my own nonprofit.
A friend of mine said they think it'd be a good idea for me to start raising donations now, which will help me get my nonprofit started even sooner.
My question is, is it legal for me to start raising donations for a nonprofit that is right now only in the planning stages, and also is there a way for me to get these donations a tax exempt status?
My friend also said it would be a good idea to let any donators know that if something were to happen and I was unable to start my business for whatever reason, that I would donate anything I earn to another nonprofit in the same field as mine.
Thanks for the help!
2 responses
@TheCatLady (4691)
• Israel
26 Feb 11
The donations won't be tax exempt until you are a non profit. But then again, you don't have to declare every small gift you receive. I don't see anything illegal as long as you are truthful and tell people that you don't have non profit status yet. Many people do rescue from their homes and get donations without having a 501(c) status.
@LilyoftheThorns (12918)
• United States
26 Feb 11
Do you know if there is a way for me to get nonprofit status before having an actual facility? Maybe send someone my business plan or something?
Thanks!
@TheCatLady (4691)
• Israel
28 Feb 11
Ask other small non profits what they did and how they did it. Look for the really small time operations. I don't think you need a facility to get non profit status. I have a friends who runs them from her homes, both here in Israel and in the United States. None of them have an actual shelter. They use use foster homes. One friend has cat houses in her back yard.
@LilyoftheThorns (12918)
• United States
1 Mar 11
When I say facility I mean actually having the operation up and running. Like right now I only have a business plan, but your friend is actually doing something now and saving lives. I would just be collecting money and saving it for now.
Thanks!! I've been searching the internet trying to find answers. I even asked a business lawyer a question, but I forgot the website I asked it on, and they won't email me when he responds on the website! *Doh!* lol
@writersedge (22563)
• United States
26 Feb 11
I'm not a lawyer, so I don't know. Wish I could help. Will be interesting to see what answers you get.
