Filing the Articles of Incorporation is a critical step in starting a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit in Vermont. Whether you have been running a charity for a while or are just starting out, your nonprofit organization will need to fill out the Articles of Incorporation and file them with the State of Vermont. This will allow you to file for 501(c)(3) status and reap the benefits of having an official 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
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Starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Vermont is easy, just follow these easy steps to file the Vermont Articles of Incorporation:
If you are starting a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in Vermont, you have come to the right place. After reading the comprehensive guide for Vermont nonprofit formation, follow this guide to file the Vermont Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State.
What is covered in this guide:
Information you will need to file the Vermont Articles of Incorporation
To become a nonprofit corporation in Vermont you must file the Articles of Incorporation with the Secretary of State.
Here are the sections that you will need to complete.
Section 1: Business Name
Enter the name you have selected.
For help with selecting a name for your nonprofit read our comprehensive guide on how to name a Vermont nonprofit.
Section 2: Nonprofit Type
Indicate whether your organization is a public benefit or mutual benefit corporation. If you aren’t sure, check the Vermont statutes.
Section 3: Business Purpose
Indicate that the purpose of your organization is that of a charitable organization as defined by IRS code 501(c)(3).
Section 4: Initial Principal Office
Enter the physical address and mailing address of your organization.
Section 5: Registered Agent & Registered Office
The registered agent can be any entity registered to do business in Vermont or any person who is a resident of the state. Your organization cannot act as its own registered agent.
Enter the information of the registered agent you have selected.
For more information read our guide: What is a registered agent? and The Vermont Registered Agent Guide.
Section 6: Officers
Enter the information of at least 3 directors selected.
Section 7: Effective Date
This section allows you to determine the date on which your nonprofit corporation officially forms. Most organizations choose to form the day the Articles of Incorporation are filed, however, you may opt to choose a different date.
If you select a date, it must be within 90 days after the filing of the Articles of Incorporation.
Supplemental Additional Article
Attach an additional article of formation to formally state what the assets of the organization will be used for, and what will happen to the assets if the organization is dissolved.
To be eligible for 501(c)(3) status, you must convince the IRS that the organization’s assets will always only be used for the purposes approved under 501(c)(3) rules. To this end, you must include provisions ensuring that in the event your organization is dissolved, the assets of the organization will be used towards tax-exempt purposes.
Section 5 of this sample document provides an example of these provisions required for 501(c)(3) eligibility.
How to file the Vermont Articles of Incorporation
There are three ways to submit your Articles of Incorporation:
Online:
File the Articles of Incorporation through the Corporations Division's online portal.
By Mail or In Person:
Request Form CORP-1(N) and submit two copies (original plus a copy) of the Articles of Incorporation along with a self-addressed stamped envelope to the mailing address below:
Vermont Secretary of State
Corporations Division
128 State St.
Montpelier, VT 05633-1104
The filing fee is $125.
- Checks and money orders for mailed forms must be made payable to the "VT SOS."
- Accepted credit cards for online filing include Visa, MasterCard, Discover, and American Express. You can also pay by eCheck.
Vermont Nonprofit Formation FAQ
How long does it take to process the Articles of Incorporation?
If you file online it typically takes about 3-5 business days. If you file by mail expect it to take 7-10 business days.
How do I contact the Corporations Division for more information?
You can call for information at (802) 828-2386 or visit them at their website.