New Hampshire Nonprofit Articles of Agreement

New Hampshire Nonprofit Articles of Agreement: What You Need to Know

If you`re looking to start a nonprofit organization in New Hampshire, one of the first steps you`ll need to take is familiarizing yourself with the state`s articles of agreement requirements.

The articles of agreement, also known as the articles of incorporation, are legal documents that establish the nonprofit organization`s existence and outline its purpose, structure, and governance. They are filed with the New Hampshire Secretary of State and are a crucial component of the nonprofit`s regulatory and compliance obligations.

Here are some key things to keep in mind when drafting and filing your nonprofit organization`s articles of agreement in New Hampshire:

1. Name and Purpose

Your nonprofit organization`s name must be unique in New Hampshire and must include a corporate indicator such as “corporation,” “incorporated,” “limited,” or an abbreviation of one of these terms. You must also clearly state the organization`s purpose, which should be charitable, educational, scientific, literary, or religious in nature.

2. Registered Agent and Office

Your nonprofit organization must designate a registered agent who has a physical address in New Hampshire and is authorized to receive legal notices and other official documents on the organization`s behalf. You must also provide a physical address in New Hampshire for your organization`s registered office.

3. Voting and Governance

Your nonprofit organization`s articles of agreement must specify how voting will take place, how board members and officers will be elected, and how conflicts of interest will be handled. You must also include provisions for how the organization`s bylaws may be amended.

4. Dissolution

Your nonprofit organization`s articles of agreement must specify how any remaining assets will be distributed in the event of dissolution. New Hampshire law requires that these assets be distributed to another nonprofit organization with a similar purpose, or to a government entity.

5. Nonprofit Tax Exemption

If your nonprofit organization intends to apply for tax-exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), you must include language in your articles of agreement that complies with federal tax regulations. This includes, for example, stating that the organization will not engage in political lobbying or electioneering.

In addition to the above requirements, it`s important to ensure that your nonprofit organization`s articles of agreement comply with all other relevant federal, state, and local laws and regulations. You may want to consult with an attorney or other professional experienced in nonprofit law to ensure that your documents are complete and accurate.

In conclusion, the articles of agreement are a critical component of starting and operating a nonprofit organization in New Hampshire. By following the guidelines outlined above, you can help ensure that your organization is legally compliant and positioned for success.