Welcome International Nonprofits!

So you want to start a nonprofit with international operations?  Or perhaps you’re a part of an existing operation that is finally ready to reap the fundraising potential of having 501c3 status in the United States? You’re in the right place.

Starting an international nonprofit in the United States is a wise idea even if your primary operations are overseas.  This is because there is such a huge funding base for organizations that have U.S. 501c3 status.  You can apply for US grants and fundraise in the United States.  It also adds legitimacy and brand recognition for your organization globally.

Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) operating in other countries have a lot with which to contend with from rigorous IRS requirements to local laws in the countries in which you are operating.  Since September 11, 2001 the IRS scrutinizes nonprofits that have international operations of any kind.  We’re here to help you simplify that process and ensure that it’s done right the first time so that your 501c3 organization can avoid unnecessary delays.

Unfortunately, the IRS requirements for obtaining the 501c tax exempt status can be overwhelming, especially when you throw in the complications of international operations. We’ve worked with many international nonprofit organizations from Africa to Europe to Asia and even in countries like Australia, Canada, Brazil, Afghanistan, Costa Rica, Guatemala and China.  Our clients range from existing schools and orphanages already operating in other countries to brand new inter-country friend and scholarship organizations to hospitals, missionaries and ministries, social justice and environmental organizations.

We’ve even successfully gained permission from the US State Department to establish an organization in Syria, a country on the terrorist watch list. Rest assured that we’ve seen it all and can assist your nongovernmental organization.

Give us a call for your free 20 minute consultation!

We cover all areas of 501c nonprofit legal needs

  • Incorporation, bylaws, budgets, minutes for initial directors’ meeting, and other startup documentation (routinely within 2-3 weeks of retainer)
  • Establishing Tax Exempt Status at the federal and state level (IRS response within 60-120 days of filing)
  • Guidance and instructions in maintaining corporate formalities and keeping your nonprofit status over the long term
  • Continuing representation and consultation including employment, real estate, leasing, and contract issues (Ask us about our on-call attorney retainer program as a way to address your legal concerns in a cost effective and timely manner)
  • Compliance review – entailing review of bylaws, state and federal filings and representation when organizations are out of compliance
  • Accounting; IRS and state filings (990, 8734, etc.) If you have questions about our services, or you would like to schedule an appointment to discuss how we can serve you, please contact us anytime.

Ask a 501c3 Attorney

We’re here to help! Enter your question in the form below to get an answer from a 501c3 attorney.

 

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Phone Number (required)

Your Question