Steps to Start a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization in Louisiana
- Name Your Louisiana Nonprofit
- Choose Your Registered Agent
- Select Your Board Members & Officers
Legal Obligations of a Nonprofit Board in Louisiana
In Louisiana, the board of directors of a nonprofit organization must perform specific legal obligations – the duty of care, duty of loyalty, and duty of obedience.
Nonprofit Governance Standards
This table highlights standards for nonprofit governance set by state laws throughout the U.S.
Starting a Nonprofit in Louisiana
- Name Your Organization
- Recruit Incorporators and Initial Directors
- Appoint a Registered Agent
How to Start a Nonprofit in Louisiana
When deciding on a nonprofit name in Louisiana, there are specific naming guidelines to follow.
Requirements to Form a Nonprofit in Louisiana
You must have three or more directors to legally form a nonprofit corporation in Louisiana. If membership is less than three, match the number of directors to members.
Starting a Tax-Exempt Nonprofit in Louisiana
- Name your organization
- File articles of incorporation
- Get an employer ID number
- Register with the Department of Revenue
- Apply for 501(c)(3) status by filing Form 1023
- Comply with additional registrations and licensing
Steps to Form a Nonprofit in Louisiana
The process takes 2 weeks to 3 months. Steps include:
- Select a name
- Recruit minimum three directors
- Appoint a registered agent
- Draft bylaws
- Get federal tax-exempt status
Board Composition for Nonprofits
The IRS requires nonprofits to have at least three board members. Some states require between one and five. Bigger nonprofits often have 12-15 members. Terms typically last two to five years.
Nonprofit Board Structure
Good governance starts with the board. The board governs finances, programs, and legal compliance.
Ideal Board Structure for Nonprofits
Most experts say boards should have eight to 14 members, with diverse skills and networks. More members make decisions harder. Fewer members lead to groupthink.
Nonprofit Board Officers
All nonprofits need a board to oversee operations and make strategy. The ideal structure depends on factors like size and mission. But boards usually have officers like a chair, secretary, and treasurer.