from what i understand By law all organizations are required to show their federal returns on request. they have the right to charge a reasonable cost for copying and mailing expenses. As far as the books, check your bylaws. If you are a member you are entilted to read and get a copy f your bylaws. Is there an audit committe for your organizaion- this shoudl be stated in your bylaws and tell how many people it consists of. Since they are telling you to put your request in writing I would do that and state per my conversation woth Mrs. XYZ who advised me on xx/xx/02 that my request to see the finanical records for xyz organiztion must be writng. I am hereby requesting an appointment to reveiw such records. Please contact me at phone # and/or address.."

I have been advised that as a PTA we don't have to show anyone our day to day books but we shouldn't have anything to hide so why should we not show someone who wanted to look at them. But it had to be at the convience of the Treasurer and most likely would have to be done at prior to the start of a PTA meeting or after the meeting. The person would not be permitted to walk away or take the books or photocopy any part of the records.

I have a dilema. My PTO Executive Board is very protective of its records. On occasion I have asked to review the check register to see how the money is being spent.I have been instructed to submit in writing 10 days prior my request. Is is standard procedure? What are my rights?