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Simple English definitions for legal terms
nonprofit corporation
Read a random definition: reckless endangerment
A quick definition of nonprofit corporation:
A nonprofit corporation is a type of organization that is created to do good things for the community, not to make money. Each state has its own rules for how nonprofit corporations are set up and run. Nonprofit organizations can have many different purposes, like helping people who are poor, teaching people new things, or supporting religious groups. There are different types of nonprofit corporations, like ones that help the public, ones that help their own members, and ones that are religious. Nonprofit corporations can also get special tax breaks from the government if they meet certain requirements.
A more thorough explanation:
A nonprofit corporation is a type of legal entity that is created under state laws to operate for purposes other than making profits. This means that the organization is not focused on making money for its owners or shareholders, but rather on achieving a specific mission or goal that benefits the community.
Nonprofit organizations can have a wide range of purposes, such as:
- Relieving poverty
- Advancing education
- Promoting health
- Supporting religious or spiritual activities
- Advocating for social or political causes
Nonprofit corporations are governed by state laws, which can vary depending on the state. Some states have adopted a model law developed by the American Bar Association, while others follow for-profit business laws.
There are different types of nonprofit corporations, including:
- Public Benefit Corporations: These are formed for public or charitable purposes and cannot benefit any private person.
- Mutual Benefit Corporations: These are formed to benefit their own members, such as private clubs or homeowners' associations.
- Religious Corporations: These are formed for religious purposes.
Nonprofit corporations can qualify for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. This means that they do not have to pay federal income taxes on their earnings, and donors can receive tax deductions for their contributions.
For example, a nonprofit corporation called "Habitat for Humanity" is dedicated to building affordable housing for low-income families. Another nonprofit called "Doctors Without Borders" provides medical care to people in crisis situations around the world. Both of these organizations are focused on achieving a specific mission that benefits the community, rather than making profits for their owners or shareholders.