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October 8, 2024

How to Dissolve Nonprofit in Nebraska in 7 Steps

Dissolving a nonprofit organization in Nebraska involves a series of legal and administrative steps to ensure compliance with state regulations. This guide will walk you through the essential procedures, from board resolutions to final filings, to help you navigate the process smoothly.

Determine if Nebraska Nonprofit dissolution is necessary

If you're considering dissolving your Nebraska nonprofit, it's crucial to understand the specific state requirements and procedures. This ensures that the process is handled correctly and efficiently, avoiding potential legal complications.

  • Declining Membership: If your nonprofit is experiencing a significant drop in membership or volunteer participation, it may be time to consider dissolution.
  • Financial Instability: Persistent financial difficulties, such as an inability to meet operational costs, can make dissolution a necessary step.
  • Mission Accomplished: If your organization has successfully achieved its goals and no longer has a clear purpose, dissolving might be the best option.

7 Steps to dissolve your Nonprofit in Nebraska:

Step 1: Review Your Nonprofit’s Governing Documents and State Laws

Before initiating the dissolution process, it's essential to thoroughly review your nonprofit's governing documents, such as the articles of incorporation and bylaws. These documents often outline the specific procedures and requirements for dissolution, including the necessity for board or member approval. In Nebraska, the law mandates that a resolution to dissolve must be adopted by a majority vote of the board of directors. Additionally, if your nonprofit has voting members, their approval is also required. This ensures that all stakeholders are in agreement with the decision to dissolve the organization.

Nebraska state law requires that the resolution to dissolve be approved by at least two-thirds of the voting members, unless your governing documents specify a different threshold. It's crucial to document these votes meticulously, as you'll need to provide evidence of compliance with both your internal rules and state regulations. For more detailed information on the legal requirements, you can refer to the Nebraska Secretary of State's website.

Step 2: Obtain Approval from the Board of Directors and Members

In Nebraska, obtaining formal approval from the board of directors is a critical step in dissolving a nonprofit. The law mandates that a resolution to dissolve must be adopted by a majority vote of the board of directors. If your nonprofit has voting members, their approval is also required. Specifically, Nebraska state law requires that the resolution to dissolve be approved by at least two-thirds of the voting members, unless your governing documents specify a different threshold. This ensures that all stakeholders are in agreement with the decision to dissolve the organization. Documenting these votes meticulously is crucial, as you'll need to provide evidence of compliance with both your internal rules and state regulations.

Step 3: File Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State

To officially dissolve your nonprofit in Nebraska, you must file the Articles of Dissolution with the Nebraska Secretary of State. This can be done online, by mail, or in person. The filing fee is $5, and you must ensure that all required information is accurately provided. The form typically asks for details such as the nonprofit's name, the date the dissolution was authorized, and a statement confirming that all debts and liabilities have been addressed. For more detailed instructions and to access the necessary forms, you can refer to the Nebraska nonprofit dissolution documents.

  • Articles of Dissolution form
  • Resolution to dissolve approved by the board of directors
  • Proof of member approval (if applicable)
  • Final financial statement
  • Notification to the Nebraska Attorney General

Step 4: Notify the IRS and State Tax Authorities

Notifying the IRS of your nonprofit's dissolution is crucial, as it involves submitting the final Form 990 and Schedule N to report the termination. This ensures that your organization is in compliance with federal tax regulations. Additionally, you must close any state tax accounts by filing the necessary forms with the Nebraska Department of Revenue. For detailed instructions on submitting the final Form 990 and Schedule N, you can refer to the IRS guidelines.

Step 5: Settle Debts and Distribute Remaining Assets

It's essential to settle all debts and liabilities before dissolving your nonprofit. Notify all creditors of your intent to dissolve and arrange to pay off any outstanding obligations. In Nebraska, once debts are settled, you must distribute any remaining assets according to your nonprofit's governing documents and state law. Consider consulting with a financial advisor or legal expert to ensure compliance and proper asset distribution.

Step 6: Cancel Licenses, Permits, and Registrations

  • Contact the Nebraska Department of Revenue to cancel your state tax registration. Detailed instructions can be found on their Closing Your Business page.
  • Notify the Nebraska Department of Labor to terminate any unemployment insurance accounts. Visit their Unemployment Insurance page for more information.
  • Cancel any local business licenses or permits with the city or county where your nonprofit operates. Check with your local city or county clerk's office for specific procedures.
  • Inform any other state or local agencies that have issued permits or licenses to your nonprofit. This may include health departments, environmental agencies, or other regulatory bodies.

Step 7: File Final Employment and Payroll Reports

When dissolving your nonprofit in Nebraska, you must file final employment and payroll reports, including Form 941 for federal employment taxes and the Nebraska Reconciliation of Income Tax Withheld, Form W-3N. Notify your employees about the dissolution and provide them with their final paychecks, including any owed wages, accrued vacation, and severance pay. Ensure all employment tax returns are submitted to both the IRS and the Nebraska Department of Revenue to avoid any penalties or legal issues.

How Sunset can help you!

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Common mistakes to avoid when dissolving a Nonprofit in Nebraska

  • Failing to Notify the Attorney General: In Nebraska, nonprofits must notify the Attorney General of their intent to dissolve. Neglecting this step can result in legal complications and potential fines.
  • Incomplete Financial Settlements: Not settling all debts and liabilities before filing the Articles of Dissolution can lead to creditor lawsuits and financial penalties. Ensure all financial obligations are met to avoid these issues.
  • Improper Asset Distribution: Distributing remaining assets without adhering to state laws and your nonprofit's governing documents can result in legal action. For example, assets must be transferred to another tax-exempt organization.
  • Neglecting Final Tax Filings: Failing to submit the final Form 990 and Schedule N to the IRS can lead to federal tax penalties. Additionally, not closing state tax accounts with the Nebraska Department of Revenue can incur state fines.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Do I need a lawyer to dissolve a Nonprofit in Nebraska? No, but consulting one can help ensure compliance with all legal requirements.
  • How long does it take to dissolve a Nonprofit in Nebraska? It typically takes a few weeks to several months, depending on the complexity of the organization.
  • How much does it cost to dissolve a Nonprofit in Nebraska? The filing fee is $5, but additional costs may arise from settling debts and legal consultations.
  • What happens to the nonprofit’s assets after dissolution? Remaining assets must be distributed according to state law and the nonprofit's governing documents.
  • Can we distribute the remaining funds to members or board members? No, remaining funds must be transferred to another tax-exempt organization.
  • Are there any tax implications when dissolving a nonprofit? Yes, you must file final tax returns and settle any outstanding tax obligations.