This is very important so please read carefully. This applies to new Clubs developed in the United States only.
The Internal Revenue Service has issued a new policy regarding 501 (c) (4) organizations and, as you know, Optimist Clubs fall into this category. Effective July 8, 2016, any new Club must file
IRS form 8976
. The full link can be found at the end of this message. The filing fee for the form is $50.
Most importantly is the requirement by the Internal Revenue Service for these organizations to be incorporated as a not-for profit under the laws of the state where the Club is located and for the Club to indicate such on
Form 8976
. Incorporation is already a policy to be approved by the new Club's Board of Directors at the initial board meeting on organization night. Information about how to file articles of incorporation can be found at any state's Secretary of State's office or similar state office. The cost to incorporate ranges from approximately $10-$100. The IRS has a
web page
providing links to the proper office in each state. This link is found at the end of this communication as well.
New Club developers will have to be made aware of these changes as soon as possible so the information is understood by the new Club officers. This will apply to any and all New Club Building projects currently underway.
Optimist International is prepared to answer any questions that may arise because of this change. Please contact us with any questions so that we can provide quick and accurate answers.
