Nonprofit Accounting Basics

Bylaws

Note: Articles published before January 1, 2017 may be out of date. We are in the process of updating this content.

Originally Posted: December 30, 2008
Author: 
Topics: 
Policies and Procedures
Size of Organization: 
Startup

Bylaws form a legally binding document that outlines the organizational authority levels, how the board functions, and how it is structured. This document is unique to every organization but it should always address a number of specific issues including:

  • name and location of organization
  • statement of purpose
  • election, roles, and terms of board members and officers
  • membership issues (categories, responsibilities)
  • meeting guidelines (frequency, quorum)
  • board structure (size, standing committees, if any)
  • compensation and indemnification of board members
  • role of chief executive
  • amendment of bylaws
  • dissolution of the organization

 

The board should have a process in place to review the bylaws every couple of years. This assignment is best carried out by a board task force formed for the purpose. There is no need to have a permanent bylaws committee.

Here are some sample bylaws. NOTE: Please, do not adopt anyone else’s bylaws. Let your board decide on every clause.

Minnesota Council of Nonprofits, https://www.minnesotanonprofits.org/resources-tools

BoardSource, https://boardsource.org/shop/

Foundation Center, https://grantspace.org/types/knowledge-base/