Tortoise Rescue Q's

[TylerStewart]

Can someone with experience please explain to me the reasons behind going for a "non-profit" status or classification when setting up a tortoise rescue? I assume there's tax benefits, but around that, what's the reasoning? Pros, cons? If I was setting up a rescue with the intent to pay for it myself, what would be the reasons to go after a non-profit status? What are the (honest) drawbacks involving the govt when being a non-profit? Obama gets to come over whenever he wants to kinda thing?

 

[chadk]

I think a big part is donations. People like to donate to a cause, especially if they can use it as a tax write-off. And with employers like mine that will match funds, it is even more enticing...

 

[TylerStewart]

If it requires 3 or more pages of paperwork a year, I think that's reason enough for me not to want non-profit status LOL.

 

[chadk]

Paperwork and $$ to get the status... But if you think you can really generate some donation cash flow, it would pay off in that way...

 

[dmmj]

I am not an expert but I believe you have to have a min. amount of land I think like 5 acres, I would imagine a lot of paperwork , Ask the clovis rescue lady on here she should know

 

[TylerStewart]

Any reason I couldn't get donations anyways? I know some people would only donate to non-profits, but to me, a rescue is a rescue and many of the non profits abuse the system anyways. I don't particularly care what their legal status is as long as they're taking in unwanted animals and finding them homes.

 

[Kristina]

There is no legal reason you can't get donations. I for one will not take cash donations, because I am not non-profit and cash donations are not deductible. If someone wants to donate to the vets office in my name, or donate supplies/food, I'll take it if I need it, otherwise I'll point them towards someone that does.