Your organization's mission is just as important to us as it is to you. That's why you'll want the experienced attorneys of Mauck & Baker to be a part of the journey. We enjoy serving not-for-profit organizations because we enjoy making it easy for our clients to best serve others in return. Your success is our success!

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The life of your organization involves many layers. In the first stage comes an abundance of planning and preparation. In the second stage comes building onto your foundation and nurturing growth. And finally, if it comes time to dissolve, a smooth transition and closure. From incorporation to dissolution, we can help every step of the way.

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The attorneys at Mauck & Baker are committed to helping not-for-profits, charities, and foundations comply with the proper regulations that allow them to uphold their mission, whether educational, humanitarian, religious, or other. Our representation is specifically tailored to meet the needs of your organization.

Areas of Service

501(c)(3) Recognition

Tax Exemption Applications

Mergers & Restructuring

Governance & Bylaws

Start-up & Corporate Documents

Nonprofit Administration

Planning & Formation

Operation & Employment

Contract Review & Negotiation

Risk Management

Trademarks & Copyright

Fundraising & Donation Planning

Charitable Solicitation

Charitable Contributions and Deductions

Protection of Charitable Assets

Handbooks & Policies

Volunteer Guidance

The Life of Your Not-for-Profit Organization in Illinois

If you've decided to start or run a not-for-profit, there are many steps and requirements you will encounter. Mauck & Baker can make this process easy for you like we've done with many other satisfied clients. Here are the ways we can help.

Confirm Name

Confirm corporate name, which must be distinguishable from any other corporation or LLC registered with the Illinois Secretary of State. 

IL Sales Tax Exemption

To maintain your organization's sales tax exemption in Illinois, this exemption must be renewed every five years with the Department of Revenue.

Preparing for Dissolution

Counsel on and prepare any necessary corporate resolutions approving dissolution.

Articles of Incorporation

Prepare and file Articles of Incorporation with the Illinois Secretary of State. This is the legal document through which your corporation is formed.

Real Estate Tax Exemption

Illinois not-for-profits can be exempt from paying property taxes on any real estate owned by the organization. We will prepare and file this application with the local county Board of Review and IL Department of Revenue.

Dissolution

File articles of dissolution that deems your corporation is no longer active with the IL Secretary of State.

Registered Agent Services

IL corporations must maintain a registered agent in Illinois to receive any service of process filed against it and any official correspondence from the Secretary of State.

Ongoing Corporate Governance

We will be available to help with various matters throughout the life of your organization such as annual reports with the IL Secretary of State, Attorney General, and IRS.

Employeer Identification Number

Prepare IRS form SS-4 to obtain the Employer Identification Number (EIN) which is a federal tax ID number to identify any business entity.

Multistate Charitable Solicitation

Review donation reports, advise on registrations or possible exemption from registration and prepare and file the necessary registration and/or exemption documents.

Create Bylaws

Prepare organization bylaws (rules used to govern an organization), structure, policies, and procedures.

Real Estate Leasing & Purchase

Coordinate real estate transactions such as purchase and sale, and advise on ownership, management, and more.

First Meeting of Directors

Appoint officers, elect additional directors, approve bylaws, and any other additional resolutions regarding the organization that need approval.

Employment Practice

Prepare handbooks and policies such as employee handbooks, corporate policies, fundraising guidance, and volunteer policies.

501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Status

Prepare and file IRS Application 1023 for 501(c)(3) federal tax exempt status.

Intellectual Property Rights

Protect valuable intellectual property assets by securing them with copyright and trademark.

IL Attorney General Registration

Prepare and file IL Attorney General registration, required for any organizations holding assets or soliciting charitable donations in Illinois.

IL Sales Tax Exemption

An Illinois not-for-profit can be exempt from paying Illinois sales tax on items purchased for the organization. This is filed with the Department of Revenue.