How To Write Your Nonprofit Bylaws
Resilia's nonprofit experts created this free bylaws template so you can get it right the first time
Your nonprofit’s bylaws are essentially the “operating manual” for your organization.
Getting it right means your nonprofit board has the guidance they need to make coordinated actions and decisions for your organization, so don’t leave it as an afterthought.
If you’re planning on applying for 501(c)3 tax-exempt status from the IRS, it’s crucial to have effective bylaws in place. You’ll need to include a copy of them in your tax-exemption application.
Some of the key activities your bylaws should address include:
When and how board meetings will be held and conducted
How board directors and officers will be appointed or elected
Voting procedures
Basic governance
How committees are going to be created
Number of directors for your board, required qualifications, and terms of service
Rules regarding conflicts of interest
How the bylaws can be changed or amended
Since bylaws are specific to every nonprofit organization, you and your board will write them to reflect the needs of your particular organization. For example, if you decide that your board of directors is going to meet on the first Saturday of every month, you’ll include that information in your organization’s bylaws.