Newyorker...to start a new pto you do not need bylaws yet to become a 501c(3) organiztion you have to have bylaws. Your best bet is to start up your pto, get you ein number and then after a few months get your bylaws done, if you plan on getting incorporated do that first (before 501) because that will save alot of money and headache later on. Then get your 501c status.
Cythiam a 501c3 is an organization that is consider a non-profit by the IRS, some groups do it, some groups choose not to. Depends on how big you are, how much money you make, you can get more companies to donate to 501 organizations, more grant opportunities. There is alot of info on the forum, I am by far means not an expert, I learned alot from this site.
What is a 501c 3 ? How do we go about getting this? And why do we need it? Please help we are interested in changing to a PTO but not sure of what the proper paper work procedures.
One more question, please - To start a PTO -- 501 c(3) --do we need to have bylaws in place first or do we vote on bylaws after the organization is formed?
But -- if you think there's a strong majority likely in favor of the PTO move -- then you can start the PTO. Then, if the PTA disband doesn't happen, it's exceedingly simple to just let the PTO dissolve (simple because there are no arcane rules in place meant solely to make it difficult). If the PTA disband does happen, you're several steps ahead.
These folks can tell the PTA anything they want; you're not doing anything wrong by establishing a PTO while the PTA still exists. It's perfectly fine in every way.
Thanks, Tim. I guess my concern is that to start a PTO, the membership should be in agreement (with the long-range vision of dissolving the PTA according to the rules), and there may be some who do not want to leave the PTA. We've brought up the topic of changing from a PTA to a PTO in the past, and have had a few members alert the state (on their own) of our discussions. Do we start a PTO (leaving the current PTA in place) and risk the chance the state may be alerted? Or do we start one without everyone knowing? (That doesn't seem right.) The good news is the administration wants the change and will do anything they can to help us.
