Understanding Small Organization: Legal Definition and Key Insights

Definition & meaning

A small organization is defined as a not-for-profit entity that is independently owned and operated. It is not considered dominant in its field of operation. This definition may be further refined by specific agencies through public comment and published in the Federal Register.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A local food bank that operates independently and serves its community without generating profit qualifies as a small organization.

Example 2: A community theater group that relies on donations and ticket sales, but does not dominate the local arts scene, is also considered a small organization. (hypothetical example)

State-by-state differences

Examples of state differences (not exhaustive):

State Definition Variance
California Defines small organizations based on specific revenue thresholds.
Texas Focuses on the number of employees and annual revenue for classification.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Key Differences
Nonprofit Organization An organization that operates for a collective, public or social benefit. All small organizations are nonprofits, but not all nonprofits are small.
Large Organization An organization that is dominant in its field and typically has significant revenue and resources. Large organizations have a greater market presence compared to small organizations.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are involved with a small organization, ensure compliance with relevant regulations and consider utilizing US Legal Forms for necessary documentation. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.

Quick facts

  • Typical fees: Varies based on state and organization type.
  • Jurisdiction: Federal and state laws apply.
  • Possible penalties: Noncompliance can lead to loss of nonprofit status.

Key takeaways

FAQs

A small organization is a not-for-profit that is independently owned and not dominant in its field.

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