Operating a non-profit in Kentucky comes with the responsibility of adhering to specific state filing requirements.
Here are the key forms required for non-profits in Kentucky, along with links to where you can find them:
Secretary of State Forms | Attorney General Forms | Department of Revenue Forms | Federal Forms (Required for State Compliance) |
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Non-profit organizations in Kentucky are subject to various filing requirements depending on their activities and legal structure. These requirements are primarily overseen by the Kentucky Secretary of State and the Kentucky Attorney General.
Failure to comply can result in penalties, loss of tax-exempt status, and potential legal action. Here's a breakdown of the key areas:
Staying on top of filing deadlines is crucial to avoid penalties and maintain your organization's good standing.
Below are the key deadlines for non-profit filings in Kentucky:
Secretary of State Deadlines | |
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Articles of Incorporation | This form is filed upon the initial formation of the non-profit corporation. There is no specific annual deadline, but it must be filed before the organization can legally operate. |
Annual Reports | Due by June 30th each year for all non-profit corporations |
Annual Renewal Form for Charitable Organizations | The annual renewal with the Kentucky Attorney General is typically due four and a half months after the close of the organization's fiscal year. |
Charitable Gaming License Application | Due at least 60 days before the intended start of gaming or before the expiration of your current charitable gaming license. |
Federal Form 990 Series | Due by the 15th day of the 5th month after the organization's fiscal year ends. |
To operate legally as a non-profit in Kentucky, the registration process involves several steps:
1. Incorporation
The initial registration involves filing the Articles of Incorporation and paying the associated filing fee of $40. This officially creates your non-profit corporation.
2. Charitable Organization Registration
Submit the Charitable Organization Registration Statement to the Attorney General's office. Include organizational documents (Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, IRS determination letter)
3. Obtain an EIN
Apply for an EIN from the IRS. This can be done online through the IRS website.
4. Federal Tax Exemption (IRS)
While not a Kentucky filing, obtaining 501(c)(3) status is crucial. File Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ with the IRS.
After receiving the exemption, you must file Form 990 annually (or Form 990-N if your gross receipts are typically $50,000 or less). Failure to file for 3 consecutive years will automatically revoke your 501(c)(3) status.
1. Annual Report Filing
2. Charitable Solicitation Renewal
Registered charitable organizations must file an annual renewal form with the Attorney General each year. This renewal typically requires updated information about the organization's activities, finances, and board members.
Failure to file the annual renewal can result in penalties and the loss of the organization's registered status.
These are separate processes, and both are typically necessary for non-profit organizations.