Unincorporated associations are a common structure for religious organizations that choose not to formally incorporate, formed whenever two or more individuals agree to act together for a common lawful purpose.
Unincorporated Associations in General
Much like other entities, an unincorporated association may adopt rules similar to the bylaws of a corporation. Additionally, the same tax-exemptions available to other entities by the Internal Revenue Code are usually available to most unincorporated associations, provided they meet all of the requirements. In California, an unincorporated association would be considered nonprofit if its governing documents contain the necessary provisions. Under Corporations Code Section 18035, “governing document” means a constitution, articles of association, bylaws, or other writing that governs the purpose or operation of an unincorporated association or the rights and obligations of its members.
Unincorporated associations must maintain the location of their principal office and a designated agent for service of process. In addition, all unincorporated associations, even if organized on a nonprofit basis, are subject to California income tax until the California Franchise Tax Board grants tax-exempt status.
Registering Unincorporated Associations in California
If an unincorporated association has filed a statement with the Secretary of State designating its principal office in California, the proper county for the trial of an action against the unincorporated association is the same as it would be if the association were a corporation. To determine the proper county, the principal place of business of the unincorporated association is deemed to be the principal office listed in that statement.
Drawbacks of Unincorporated Associations
By far the biggest drawback of operating as an unincorporated association is the inability to legally separate the association from its members. This arises from the fact that, by statute, an unincorporated association is liable for its own acts or omissions and for those of its director, officer, agent, or employee acting within the scope of the office, agency, or employment, to the same extent as if the association were a natural person.
Generally, a member of a nonprofit association is not liable for a contractual obligation of the association unless the member expressly assumes personal responsibility for the obligation in a signed writing that specifically identifies the obligation assumed, expressly authorizes or ratifies the specific contract in writing, receives a benefit under the contract with notice of it, executes the contract without disclosing that the member is acting on behalf of the association, or executes the contract without authority to do so. See Corporations Code Section 18610.
In other words, individual members of an association can be held personally liable for the debts and liabilities of the association as a whole. When entering into a contract under the name of the association, for example, whether a member consents to the agreement or not, those who enjoy its benefits may also be liable for performance.
Should Your Unincorporated Association Incorporate?
Many churches begin as unincorporated associations but choose to incorporate as they grow, primarily to shield individual members and leadership from personal liability. If your congregation owns property, employs staff, or enters into contracts regularly, incorporating as a nonprofit religious corporation is often the safer long-term structure. Consult with a real estate or nonprofit attorney to evaluate whether incorporation makes sense for your church’s specific situation.
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Disclaimer: Every situation is different and particular facts may vary thereby changing or altering a possible course of action or conclusion. The information contained herein is intended to be general in nature as laws vary between federal, state, counties, and municipalities and therefore may not apply to any given matter. This information is not intended to be legal advice or relied upon as a legal opinion, course of action, accounting, tax or other professional service. You should consult the proper legal or professional advisor knowledgeable in the area that pertains to your particular situation.
