Total pages in book: 74
Estimated words: 73042 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 365(@200wpm)___ 292(@250wpm)___ 243(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 73042 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 365(@200wpm)___ 292(@250wpm)___ 243(@300wpm)
I realize I should be taking notes as well. I grab my phone. “I’m not texting, I promise you. Just want to write all of this down. What comes after the bylaws?”
Brick’s smile widens. “The next step is to incorporate your nonprofit. This involves filing articles of incorporation with the Texas Secretary of State office. That will include your nonprofit’s name, purpose, and the names of your board members, so you’ll need to solidify all of those. I can help you with the nitty-gritty of what Texas specifically requires.”
“Is there anything specific we need to include in the articles of incorporation?"
“Yes.” He leans a little closer. “You need to ensure that your articles of incorporation include specific language required by the IRS if you plan to apply for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. This includes a statement of purpose that aligns with IRS requirements and a clause dedicating your assets to another 501(c)(3) organization if your nonprofit dissolves.”
“Whoa. Slow down.” I tap away. “Five-oh-one-see-three?”
“That’s the IRS designation for nonprofits organizations. That’ll ensure that you don’t have to pay taxes on any donations you receive. All of the money will go toward your mission. And because it isn’t a for-profit business, you don’t have to worry about investors or anything like that. Just throw a gala or two each year to keep your donors happy.”
I nod. “Got it. And once we’ve incorporated?”
Brick looks down at the documents in front of him. There’s a small patch of pink in his cheeks. “After incorporation, you need to obtain an Employer Identification Number, or EIN, from the IRS. This is like a Social Security number for your organization. You’ll need it for tax filings and opening a bank account.”
“Okay, I’ll make sure to do that.” I tap the letters EIN into my Notes app. “And how do we go about getting tax-exempt status?”
He pushes a sheet of paper toward me. “You’ll need to complete and submit IRS Form 1023. There’s a long form and a short form depending on the size and scope of your nonprofit. The application process can be detailed, so it’s often beneficial to work with someone experienced in nonprofit law to ensure your application is complete and accurate.”
I smile at him. “Good thing I’ve got you to help me, Brick.”
Brick scratches his arm, his eyes warm and soft. “I’m more than happy to help you through all of this, Raven. It’s a noble cause, one that I’m honored to assist you in.”
My cheeks warm at his words. “Thank you. I’m just trying to make my second chance at life count for something.”
He nods. “You are wise beyond your years.” His gaze lingers on mine for a moment, but then he sharply cuts away and looks down at the table. “There are a few more things you’ll want to do. You’ll need to register for state and local taxes, and you may need to apply for a charitable solicitation license if you plan to raise funds publicly. Additionally, developing a strong fundraising plan and a strategic plan for your programs will be essential for your nonprofit’s success.”
“And you’ll help me with all of that?”
Brick adjusts his tie. “Like I said, it would be my honor.”
I tap a few more words into my notes and then put my phone down. “Thank you so much for all of this. It’s clear I’ve got a lot on my plate, but I’m determined to get this done and make a difference.” I stand up and reach my arm out. “Would you like to join me for lunch? It’s the least I can do for all your help.”
He stands up and shakes my hand quite tenderly. “I would be delighted, Raven.”
We head into the kitchen. The housekeeper has prepared some ham and cheese sandwiches.
“How have you been feeling since your treatment ended?” Brick looks me up and down. “You look fantastic.”
I absentmindedly run my fingers over the small growth of hair on my scalp. “You’re joking. With this peach fuzz?”
Brick smiles. “A lot of women cut their hair short nowadays. I think it’s quite fetching.” He widens his eyes. “I apologize. I’m not sure that was an appropriate thing to say to a client.”
I chuckle. “I’ve felt like absolute shit the last couple years, Brick. I’ll take a compliment on my looks any day.”
Brick inches his hand closer to mine across the table. “I don’t think I’ll find any shortage of compliments on your appearance, Raven.”
My cheeks are quite warm now. But not as hot as they feel when I’m within twenty feet of Vinnie Gallo. “You’re flattering me. I am happy that my face is filling out again. I was looking pretty gaunt during the worst parts of my treatment.”
Brick nods. “I can’t even begin to imagine what you’ve been through. You’re very brave. And your first thought upon completing your treatment is how you can help others who are less fortunate than you.”