Montana
Updates
What You’ll Learn
The following guidelines provide background information on the most common types of filings and the related exemptions in Montana.
Getting to Know the State Nonprofit Corporation Law
Background
State Nonprofit Corporation Law
Corporate Governance
For Religious Nonprofits
Understanding Religious Liberty in this State
Case Study
Religious Liberty Protections
Other Relevant State Laws and Regulations
Key Employment Laws and Regulations
Conducting Activities or Programs in this State
Understanding the Business Registration Requirement
Depending on the type and volume of activities an organization has in this state, the organization may need to register as an out-of-state business (sometimes called a “foreign business”) with the secretary of state or another state agency. Not every out-of-state organization needs to register. An attorney can assist the organization in determining whether its connections with this state are significant enough to trigger the foreign business registration requirement. Examples of activities which might trigger this requirement include having employees physically located in the state, conducting programs in the state, and having an office in the state. Montana state law also provides examples of activities that do not constitute doing business for purposes of the registration requirement.
Business Registration Statute
Fundraising and Charitable Registration in This State
How to Know (And What to D0) If You're Fundraising In This State
In this state, charitable solicitation registration is no longer required, as of October 16, 2019. Be sure to review other state registration and tax requirements, and stay apprised of updates by visiting the applicable state agency’s website. (Links are provided below in the “Helpful Links” section.)
If You're Fundraising In Multiple States, Make Sure You Understand the URS
Evaluate Whether You'll Need a Registered Agent
Follow the Rules About Communicating with the Public
This state does not require organizations to post specific language when conducting charitable solicitations.
Charitable Registration Statute
Not applicable, but see Charitable Trust Statute Mont. Code Ann. § 72-38-405
Charitable Registration Exemption Statute
Not applicable
Annual Report Requirement
Get Acquainted with State and Local Taxes and Exemptions
State and Local Taxes
In this state, organizations which have received recognition of federal income tax exemption are also exempt from the state income tax. However, to receive this exemption, organizations doing business in the state must apply. The exemption is not automatic. Information on applying for the state income tax exemption is available on the Montana Department of Revenue website. If you aren’t sure if your organization is “doing business in” Montana, you can complete this nexus questionnaire from the Montana Department of Revenue. Although an organization may be exempt, if it has unrelated business taxable income (UBTI) that is subject to federal taxation, that UBTI will be subject to Montana’s income tax. (See Montana Code Ann. § 15-31-102.)
It is also important to consider whether applying for other tax exemptions would be appropriate for your organization. As of January 6, 2021, Montana does not have sales tax. However, Montana does impose a property tax. Information on property tax exemption is available from the Montana Department of Revenue. An accountant or attorney can provide specific answers to questions regarding your organization’s eligibility for exemption.
Corporate Income Tax Statute
Corporate Franchise Tax Statute
This state does not have a corporate franchise tax.
What You Need to Know About Sales Tax
State-Specific Special Requirements
Miscellaneous
Useful Links
Reviewed by
Chase Giacomo, Esq.
Legal Disclaimer
This resource contains general educational information related to legal concepts, but this information does not constitute legal advice. Anyone seeking legal advice is strongly encouraged to consult with a licensed attorney regarding any of the matters discussed herein. Although licensed attorneys work with Napa Legal, Napa Legal is not a law firm and does not undertake legal representation on behalf of any clients. Further, no licensed attorney working with or on behalf of Napa Legal agrees to undertake legal representation on behalf of any client unless the terms of such representation are set forth in a separate, written representation agreement.
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**Please note that the following state profiles are forthcoming and will be published soon:Hawaii and Washington