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OFFICIAL CHARTER PAPERWORK

The final steps for opening a new Kiwanis club include completing the official paperwork and submitting fees. At that point, Kiwanis International will assign the new club a key number, issue a charter certificate and present awards to be used at the charter ceremony.

Here are the forms and fees a new club will need to complete or pay. All items — except the information sheet — are due to Kiwanis International within 30 days of the club’s organization date.

New Club info sheet: Report this information online or by fax to the Kiwanis International Office within 24 hours of the organization meeting. That way, our member services department can process your paperwork as quickly as possible to get your club chartered.

Charter gift kit: We offer many great options to set you up for success. The charter gift kit includes charter membership pins, officer pins, charter member certificates and more. Complete the charter gift kit form and return it with the new club charter paperwork and fees.

Permanent organization roster: Fill in the names and complete addresses of those who have joined as of the date of the organizational meeting. An official club roster is sent back once the club is processed.

Standard form for club bylaws: Complete your club’s bylaws and submit them for review and approval to Kiwanis International. Once approved, you will have access to your club bylaws online and can update them at any time.

Employer Identification Number (EIN): Clubs in the United States are required to report an Employer Identification Number to Kiwanis International at the time of opening. Clubs apply for an EIN with the Internal Revenue Service, which provides the number upon approval. Follow the instructions to complete the online application form and then report your EIN to Kiwanis International.

IRS Form 8976: Clubs in the United States must complete IRS Form 8976 (with applicable fee) to comply with notification of the club’s intent to operate as a 501(c)(4) organization.

Incorporation: In most areas of the world, nonprofit organizations must incorporate or register themselves with a governmental authority. Clubs have one year from the date of their charter certificate to complete the appropriate paperwork. Review the standard procedure for incorporation, including Form A and Form C, of a Kiwanis club. Contact your district secretary to learn more about the requirements for your area.

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