The Pa BCO-10 form, also known as the Charitable Organization Registration Statement, is a compulsory document that charities operating within Pennsylvania must file with the Bureau of Charitable Organizations. This form is integral for charities to legally solicit contributions and conduct fundraising activities in the state. It requires detailed information about the organization, including its legal name, contact information, fiscal year-end, Employer Identification Number (EIN), and specifics on solicitation methods and program descriptions for which contributions will be used.
In the realm of charitable organizations operating within Pennsylvania, the Charitable Organization Registration Statement, known as Form BCO-10, emerges as a critical document, mandated by the Bureau of Charitable Organizations under the Pennsylvania Department of State. This comprehensive form serves multiple purposes: it facilitates initial registration, renewal, and amendment of registration details for charities. By meticulously requiring information on an organization's legal name, contact details, fiscal data, and various operational aspects, including the names and addresses of chapters and key personnel across the state, Form BCO-10 ensures transparency and regulatory compliance in charitable activities. Moreover, it delves into the specifics of solicitation activities, detailing the types of solicitation employed, and extends to probe into any relationships with professional solicitors, fundraising counsels, and commercial co-venturers. The form also addresses the organization's tax-exempt status, IRS reporting requisites, governance, and fiscal responsibilities, alongside probing into any potential legal or regulatory issues faced by the organization or its associates. This stringent documentation requirement underscores Pennsylvania’s commitment to maintaining the integrity of its charitable sector, demanding clear disclosures to protect public interest and foster trust in charitable contributions and activities within the Commonwealth.
Bureau of Charitable Organizations
207 North Office Building
Harrisburg, Pennsylvania 17120
Telephone: (717) 783-1720
Commonwealth of
(800) 732-0999 (within PA only)
Fax: (717) 783-6014
Pennsylvania
Website: www.dos.state.pa.us/charities
Department of State
For Official Use Only
Approved: ____________
RF: ____________
AF: ____________
LF: ____________
Fee Received: ____________
Charitable Organization Registration Statement – Form BCO-10
Check if registering voluntarily
(See note under “important information”)
Certificate Number: ____________
(Renewals Only)
Fiscal Year Ended: _____ / _____ / _____
Employer Identification Number (EIN): ___________________
1. Legal name of organization: ___________________________________________________
Check if name change Previous name: _________________________________
2.All other names used to solicit contributions: ___________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________________
3.Contact person: ______________________________________________________________
Contact’s E-mail: _____________________________________________________________
Physical address of organization: (Required) Mailing address: (If different than physical)
__________________________________
___________________________________
City: _____________________________
City: ______________________________
State: ______ Zip code: __________
State: ______ Zip code: ___________
County: __________________________
800 number: ______________________
Phone number: ___________________
Fax number: ______________________
E-mail (If different that Contact’s E-mail):
___________________________________________
Website: _____________________________________________________________________
4. Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all offices, chapters, branches, auxiliaries, affiliates, or other subordinate units located in Pennsylvania: (Attach
separate sheet if necessary)
_______________________________________________________________________________
Form BCO-10 Revised (7/2009)
Page 1 of 6
5.For Organizations described in Section 162.7(a) of the Act, check section that
describes organization: (See footnote #2 of instructions. Volunteer registrants do not
respond.)
162.7(a)(1)
162.7(a)(2)
162.7(a)(3)
162.7(a)(4)
Not Applicable
6. List type of organization (e.g. corporation, association, etc.): _________________________
Where established: ______________________ Date established:** __________________
**(Initial registrants must submit copies of organizational documents such as charter, articles of incorporation, constitution, or other organizational instrument, and by-laws.)
7.Is any person compensated, or do you intend to compensate any person, for soliciting contributions in Pennsylvania, including employees of the organization
and professional solicitors? Yes No (Do not check “Yes” if you only use or intend to
only use a professional fundraising counsel.)
If “Yes”, give date person or entity started or will start soliciting contributions from Pennsylvania residents. ____/____/____
Items 8 and 9 are required to be completed by initial registrants only
8.Date organization first solicited contributions from Pennsylvania residents:
___/___/____
9.If organization solicited Pennsylvania residents and received gross* contributions totaling more than $25,000 during the fiscal year covered by this registration statement, or during its current fiscal year, give date contributions first totaled more than $25,000. ____/____/____
*Includes contributions received both within and outside Pennsylvania
10. Has organization been granted IRS tax-exempt status? Yes No (If “Yes”,
please submit copy of IRS exemption letter if not previously submitted.)
A.If “Yes”, under which IRS code section: ___________________________________
B.Has organization’s tax-exempt status ever been denied, revoked, or
modified? Yes No (If “Yes” attach copy of denial, revocation, or modification.)
11.Was the organization required to file an IRS 990 return and applicable schedules for its most recently completed fiscal year? Yes No
(If “No”, attach explanation of why organization is exempt from filing an IRS 990 return. An organization that is not required to file an IRS 990 return must file a Pennsylvania public disclosure form BCO-23. This includes an organization that files a 990N, 990EZ, or 990PF.)
12.A clear description of the specific programs for which contributions will be used, and a statement whether such programs are planned or in existence:
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13.Manner in which contributions are solicited (e.g. direct mail, telephone, internet, etc.):
14.Is organization registered to solicit contributions in any other state or
municipality? Yes No (If “Yes”, list all states and municipalities. Attach separate
sheet if necessary.)
15.Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all professional solicitors you use or intend to use to solicit contributions from Pennsylvania residents. For each entry, include the beginning and ending dates of all contracts, and dates Pennsylvania residents were first solicited, or will be solicited: (Attach separate
sheet if necessary. Refer to “Definitions” for definition of a professional solicitor)
16.Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all professional fundraising counsels you use or intend to use to provide services with respect to the solicitation of contributions from Pennsylvania residents. For each entry, include the beginning and ending dates of all contracts, and dates services began, or will begin, with respect to soliciting contributions from Pennsylvania residents:
(Attach separate sheet if necessary. Refer to “Definitions” for definition of a fundraising counsel)
17.Names, addresses, and telephone numbers of any commercial coventurers under contract with your organization:
Page 3 of 6
18.If you are a parent organization located in Pennsylvania, do you elect to file a combined registration covering all of your Pennsylvania affiliates?
Yes No Not Applicable (See note under “important information”)
If “Yes”, give all names and certificate numbers of your affiliate organizations:
(For each affiliate whose parent organization files a Form IRS 990 group return, it must file a form BCO-23, in addition to filing a copy of the organization’s Form IRS 990 return.)
____________________________________________________________________________
19.Are you a Pennsylvania affiliate of a parent organization, which elected to file a combined registration on your behalf? Yes No (See note under “important
information”)
If “Yes”, provide the name and, if available, certificate # of your parent
organization. (For each affiliate whose parent organization files a Form IRS 990 group return, it must file a form BCO-23, in addition to filing a copy of the organization’s Form IRS 990 return.)
________________________________________
______________________________
(Legal name of parent organization)
(Certificate #)
20.Does your organization share contributions or other revenue with any other nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association? Yes No (If “Yes”, attach
an explanation listing name, address, type of organization, and relationship to your organization.)
21.Does your organization share formal governance with any other nonprofit corporation or unincorporated association? Yes No (If “Yes”, attach an
explanation listing name, address, type of organization, and relationship to your organization.)
22.Does any other domestic or foreign organization own a 10% or greater interest in
your organization? Yes No (If “Yes”, attach the following information for each other
domestic or foreign organization: name and type of organization, whether organization is for- profit or nonprofit, and relationship of organization to your organization.)
23. Does your organization own a 10% or greater interest in any other domestic or
foreign organization? Yes No (If “Yes”, attach the following information for each other domestic or foreign organization: name and type of organization, whether organization is for-profit or nonprofit, and relationship of organization to your organization.)
24.Provide the names and addresses of all officers, directors, trustees, and principal salaried executive staff officers: (Attach separate sheet if necessary)
______________________________________________________________________________
Page 4 of 6
25.Names and addresses for: (Attach separate sheet if necessary)
A.Individual(s) in charge of solicitation activities:
B.Individual(s) with final responsibility for the custody of contributions:
C.Individual(s) with final responsibility for final distribution of contributions:
D.Individual(s) responsible for custody of financial records:
26.If you answer “Yes” to any of the following, attach a list of related individuals with names, business, and residence addresses of related parties. Are any officers, directors, trustees, or employees related by blood, marriage, or adoption to:
A.Any other officer, director, trustee, or employee? Yes No
B.Any officer, agent, or employee of any professional fundraising counsel or solicitor under contract with organization? Yes No
C.Any supplier or vendor providing goods or services? Yes No
27.If you answer “Yes” to any of the following, attach full written explanations, including reasons for actions, and copies of all relevant documents. Has organization or any of its present officers, directors, executive personnel, trustees, employees, or fundraisers:
A.Been found to have engaged in unlawful practices in the solicitation of contributions or administration of charitable assets or been enjoined from soliciting contributions or are such proceedings pending in this or any other jurisdiction? Yes No
B.Had its registration or license to solicit contributions denied, suspended, or revoked by any governmental agency? Yes No
C.Entered into any legally enforceable agreement such as a consent agreement, an assurance of voluntary compliance or discontinuance with any district attorney, Office of Attorney General, or other local or state governmental agency? Yes No
Page 5 of 6
I certify that the information provided in this registration, including all statements and documentation, is true and correct. I understand that the falsification of any statement or documentation is subject to criminal penalties for unsworn falsifications pursuant to 18 PA. C.S. § 4904.
____________________________________
Date _____________________
Signature of Chief Fiscal Officer
_____________________________________
Type or Print Name and Title of Chief
Fiscal Officer
_______________________________________
Date ______________________
Signature of Another Authorized Officer
Type or Print Name and Title of
Another Authorized Officer
Checklist
Original Registration Statement
Properly Signed and Dated
A Copy of Form IRS 990 Return and
Required Schedules Signed and
Dated by an Authorized Officer
Form BCO-23, if Required
Applicable Financial Statements
Registration Fee and any Late Filing
Fees
Additional Filings, if an Initial
Registrant
Page 6 of 6
Once the PA BCO-10 form is filled out and submitted, it starts a process where the submitted information is reviewed by the Bureau of Charitable Organizations. This review ensures that the charitable organization meets the state requirements for conducting fundraising activities. This is an important step in maintaining transparency and accountability. Depending on the outcome, the organization may be approved to solicit contributions or may need to provide additional information or clarification.
This step-by-step guide is designed to simplify filling out the PA BCO-10 form. Following the instructions carefully helps ensure that the submission process is seamless and efficient.
What is the Pa BCO-10 form and who needs to file it?
The Pa BCO-10 form, officially known as the Charitable Organization Registration Statement, is a document that charitable organizations must file with Pennsylvania's Bureau of Charitable Organizations. It's primarily required for charities operating within Pennsylvania. This includes newly established organizations, those soliciting donations in the state, and organizations that have already been doing so. In short, if your organization plans to solicit charitable contributions from Pennsylvania residents, this form is a must.
What happens if an organization does not voluntarily register with the Pa BCO-10 form?
An organization choosing not to register voluntarily might face legal implications. While the form allows for voluntary registration (implying some organizations might not be strictly obligated to file), non-compliance with required registration could lead to penalties. This could include fines or restrictions placed upon the organization's ability to operate within the state. Not registering could also damage an organization's credibility and reputation with potential donors.
How can an organization determine if it needs to file the Pa BCO-10 form?
Organizations should assess their activities in relation to Pennsylvania laws. If your organization solicits donations from Pennsylvania residents, is based in Pennsylvania, or holds events within the state, you likely need to file the form. Additionally, consulting with legal counsel familiar with charitable registration requirements in Pennsylvania can provide specific guidance.
What information is required when filling out the Pa BCO-10 form?
The Pa BCO-10 form requires comprehensive information about the charitable organization. This includes the legal name, any other names used, contact information, details about where it operates, a list of offices or chapters, the type of organization, whether the organization compensates individuals for soliciting contributions, fiscal details, and information about its tax-exempt status, among other requirements. Accurate and complete answers ensure compliance with state regulations.
Does registering with the Pa BCO-10 form mean an organization is tax-exempt?
No, registering with the Pa BCO-10 form does not grant tax-exempt status. This form is for the purpose of charitable registration within Pennsylvania. Tax-exempt status is granted by the IRS and requires a separate application process through Form 1023 or 1024, depending on the nature of the organization. However, proof of IRS tax-exempt status is required as part of the BCO-10 form submission if applicable.
Are there any fees associated with filing the Pa BCO-10 form?
Yes, there are filing fees associated with the Pa BCO-10 form. The amount can vary based on factors such as the size of the organization and the nature of its solicitations. It's important to review the latest instructions and fee schedules, which can be found on the Bureau of Charitable Organizations' website or by contacting their office directly.
Can an organization file the Pa BCO-10 form electronically?
As of the last update, the Bureau of Charitable Organizations supports electronic filing for some forms, including the BCO-10. Organizations are encouraged to check the official website or contact the Bureau directly for up-to-date information on the filing process. This can be a more convenient and faster way to submit the necessary documentation and payment.
What is the deadline for filing the Pa BCO-10 form?
The filing deadline for the Pa BCO-10 form typically depends on the fiscal year-end of the organization. Instructions accompanying the form should outline specific deadlines. Late filings can result in penalties, so it's crucial to submit all materials on time. Keeping track of these dates ensures your organization remains in good standing.
If an organization's information changes after filing the Pa BCO-10 form, what should be done?
If any of the information provided on the Pa BCO-10 form changes after filing, the organization should notify the Bureau of Charitable Organizations as soon as possible. This may include changes in address, contact information, or organizational structure. Timely updates help maintain accurate records and ensure compliance with state regulations.
Who can organizations contact for help with the Pa BCO-10 form?
Organizations needing assistance with the Pa BCO-10 form can contact the Bureau of Charitable Organizations directly. The Bureau provides support and resources to help organizations understand their filing obligations. Additionally, seeking guidance from a legal professional experienced in nonprofit law can be highly beneficial for navigating the complexities of charitable registration in Pennsylvania.
Filling out the PA BCO-10 form, which is essential for charitable organizations registering in Pennsylvania, can sometimes be a complex process. Common pitfalls can be avoided by paying close attention to the form's details and requirements. Here are nine mistakes that people often make during this process:
Not checking if the organization is registering voluntarily under the section "important information". This oversight could lead to unnecessary registration, subjecting the organization to regulations it might not need to follow.
Omitting previous names the organization operated under. As organizations evolve, they sometimes change names. Neglecting to provide a comprehensive history can create confusion and delay the registration process.
Failing to list all other names used to solicit contributions. Charities often operate or solicit under various aliases or program names; overlooking these can lead to incomplete registration.
Inaccurately providing the fiscal year end date. The fiscal year end date is crucial for ensuring the organization's financial reporting aligns with state requirements.
Forgetting to include contact information for offices, chapters, or affiliated entities located in Pennsylvania. This information is vital for comprehensive oversight and communication.
Not clearly indicating if any person is compensated for soliciting contributions. Transparency in operations is key to trust and legality in charitable solicitations.
Omitting the initial registration items for new registrants. New organizations sometimes skip essential fields required for their first-time registration.
Failure to accurately describe the specific programs for which contributions will be used. Vagueness can lead to mistrust among potential donors and issues with regulatory compliance.
Incorrectly answering or not answering at all whether the organization has been granted IRS tax-exempt status. This status significantly affects charitable registration and operation.
Avoiding these common mistakes can pave the way for a smoother registration process, ensuring that charitable organizations can focus on their mission rather than bureaucratic hurdles.
When embarking on the process of registering a charitable organization in Pennsylvania, it's essential to have a comprehensive understanding of all the paperwork involved. Besides the primary Charitable Organization Registration Statement, known as Form BCO-10, several other documents play a crucial role in successfully navigating the registration process. These documents ensure compliance and transparency, echoing the organization's commitment to its cause and its adherence to legal standards.
In essence, preparing and submitting the BCO-10 form, alongside these vital documents, provides a clear framework for charitable organizations to operate within Pennsylvania lawfully. It symbolizes an organization's dedication to transparency, accountability, and regulatory compliance, principles that are foundational to earning public trust and achieving philanthropic aims. Understanding each document’s role and requirement not only aids in a smoother registration process but also in establishing a robust foundation for the organization's operations.
The Pa BCO-10 form, known officially as the Charitable Organization Registration Statement, bears similarities to various other forms and documents required by organizations in different states or for different purposes. At first glance, its structure and intent might seem unique, yet a deeper dive reveals its commonalities with other documents, illustrating the interconnected web of regulatory compliance that charitable organizations navigate.
One document similar to the Pa BCO-10 form is the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 990. This form, titled "Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax," is an annual reporting return that federally tax-exempt organizations must file with the IRS. It provides information on the filing organization's mission, programs, and finances. The similarity lies in the disclosure of financial information, operational details, and governance structures, which both forms require to ensure transparency and public trust in charitable entities. Additionally, both documents necessitate a detailed accounting of revenues and expenditures, alongside the enumeration of officers, directors, and key employees, fostering a level of operational clarity intended to protect and inform donors and stakeholders.
Another document that shares characteristics with the Pa BCO-10 form is the Unified Registration Statement (URS). The URS is a collaborative effort among several states to simplify the charity registration process, allowing nonprofits to use a single form to register in multiple states. While not all states accept the URS, its core components closely mirror those of the Pa BCO-10 form, such as organizational identification, financial information, and details about fundraising activities. The likeness between these documents underscores the regulatory emphasis on accountability, the accuracy of solicitation materials, and the integrity of fundraising practices, reflecting a collective commitment to ensuring ethical conduct within the philanthropic sector.
When preparing to fill out the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations Registration Statement, Form BCO-10, it is crucial to proceed with attention to detail and adherence to the specified requirements. The following guidelines will help ensure that the process is conducted accurately and efficiently:
Do:
Review the entire form before beginning to fill it out to understand all the requirements and gather necessary information.
Ensure that the legal name of the organization is used consistently throughout the form, reflecting any changes or alternate names used to solicit contributions.
Provide accurate and up-to-date contact information, including the physical and mailing addresses, to facilitate communication.
Attach additional sheets, as needed, to provide complete information for sections requiring extensive details, such as the list of offices, branches, or affiliations within Pennsylvania.
Review the form for accuracy and completeness before submission, ensuring that all required attachments, such as IRS exemption letters or organizational documents, are included.
Don't:
Avoid providing incomplete or inaccurate information which can lead to delays in the approval process or potential legal issues.
Do not overlook the need to indicate whether your organization is voluntarily registering or meets specific criteria requiring registration.
Leave sections blank; if a section does not apply, indicate with "N/A" (Not Applicable) instead of leaving it empty.
Forget to check if your organization's tax-exempt status requires the submission of an IRS exemption letter, particularly if it has not been submitted previously.
Fail to update the contact information for the person responsible for the form, as this can impede critical communications regarding your registration.
Adhering to these guidelines can significantly streamline the registration process, reduce the likelihood of errors, and ensure compliance with Pennsylvania’s regulations governing charitable organizations.
Many people encounter misunderstandings about the Charitable Organization Registration Statement, commonly known as the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations Form BCO-10. Here are six common misconceptions clarified:
Voluntary Registration is Unnecessary: Some believe that if their organization is small, they do not need to bother with voluntary registration. However, registering can provide transparency and build trust with potential donors, irrespective of the organization's size.
All Organizations Must Pay a Fee: The assumption that all organizations have to pay a fee when filing the BCO-10 is incorrect. Fees vary based on revenue, and certain small organizations may be exempt or required to pay a reduced fee.
Only Pennsylvania-based Charities Need to File: If an organization solicits donations from Pennsylvania residents, it needs to file a BCO-10, regardless of where it is based. This includes both physical and online solicitations.
Tax-Exempt Status Automatically Exempts Organizations from Filing: Even if an organization has been granted IRS tax-exempt status, it is not exempt from registering and filing with the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations.
Once Registered, No Annual Updates are Needed: Organizations must renew their registration annually, providing updated information and financial details for the previous fiscal year to remain in compliance.
Financial Information is Publicly Disclosed in Detail: While organizations must provide financial information, including IRS forms and financial statements, the publicly available data focuses on general financial health and the percentage of funds going toward programs, administration, and fundraising costs.
Dispelling these myths is crucial for organizations to ensure compliance with Pennsylvania's regulations on charitable solicitations, maintain public trust, and foster a strong relationship with donors.
Filling out the Pennsylvania Bureau of Charitable Organizations Form BCO-10 is a key step for charitable organizations in the state to ensure compliance and properly manage donations and contributions. Here are four key takeaways about this process:
Overall, the careful completion of the Form BCO-10 is fundamental for charitable organizations operating in Pennsylvania, ensuring they meet state regulations, maintain transparency with the public, and foster trust with current and potential donors.
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