Articles

Association Tax Primer for CEOs

In order to effectively perform their duties, association CEOs must have a basic understanding of the federal tax laws as they apply to the tax-exempt status, income, meetings, educational programs, publications, lobbying, standard setting, certifica… Read More
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Establishing and Operating Taxable Subsidiaries: A Primer for Associations

One of the most useful planning tools available to associations is the use of taxable subsidiaries to carry on unrelated business activities. Whether it is to preserve tax exemption, generate revenue, limit legal liability, or for other legal, politi… Read More
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UBIT: What Associations Need to Know

Although trade and professional associations are granted a general exemption from federal income tax by the Internal Revenue Code (Code) – for income from activities that are substantially related to the purposes for which the association’s tax-e… Read More
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Hotel and Convention Center Contract Provision Guidelines for Associations

The following is a high-level summary and explanation of the key provisions in most hotel and convention center contracts in connection with association meetings and conferences. Note that while some of the article provides some negotiating tips and… Read More
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Substantiation and Disclosure Requirements for 501(c)(3) Organizations: A Primer on the Charitable Contribution Rules

Contributions made to 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organizations (referred to hereinafter as “charities”) are only deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes if they are made with donative intent and to the extent that… Read More
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The Dual Roles of In-House Corporate Counsel: The Impact on the Attorney-Client Privilege

In-house attorneys are wielding increasing and enormous power in the running of corporate America. Attorneys these days play leading, not just supporting, roles, getting involved in virtually every kind of business decision. Theirs are the minds that… Read More
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Does Your Association Own the Work Product of Your Contractors, Authors, Speakers, Officers, Directors, and Committee Members?

Except for employees acting within the scope of their employment and certain other limited cases, the basic rule under U.S. copyright law is that the creator of an original work is the owner of the copyright in that work (regardless of who paid for t… Read More
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Considerations for Determining Whether Association Chapters Should Incorporate

Following are the general considerations regarding whether a chapter of a hypothetical trade or professional association (“Association”) should incorporate or remain as an unincorporated association. Whether chapter incorporation is requi… Read More
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Federal Tax Treatment of Associations’ Associate Member Dues

Back in 1997, the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS") issued guidance on the tax treatment of the associate member dues income of 501(c)(6) associations (Revenue Procedure 97-12). IRS guidance in this area has not changed since then. This article disc… Read More
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