How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (2024)

by April Ray | nonprofit business | 79 comments

How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (1)

Ask people what it means to be a non-profit business organization and you’re likely to get an array of answers, many of them incorrect. For people who aren’t familiar with the ins and outs of how non-profits work, it can be confusing to hear about executive and employee compensation and earnings.

But, guess what? It’s an actual thing!

Because non-profit organizations provide essential services, it’s important for the people who interact with non-profits to understand how they work and especially, how non-profit business owners get paid. Here’s what you need to know.

So, What Does It Mean to Operate as a Non-Profit Business?

Let’s start at the beginning with an explanation of what it means to be a charitable non-profit organization. According to the IRS, a non-profit charity is:

  • In operation for one or more of the exempt purposes set forth in section 501(c)(3) of the tax code, including charitable, religious, educational, scientific, literary, testing for public safety, fostering natural or international amateur sports competition, or preventing cruelty to children or animals.
  • Of a charitable nature, using the generally accepted legal sense of the word. Examples include relief of the poor, the distressed, or the underprivileged; advancement of religion; advancement of education or science; erecting or maintaining public buildings, monuments, or works; lessening the burdens of government; lessening neighborhood tensions; eliminating prejudice and discrimination; defending human and civil rights secured by law; and combating community deterioration and juvenile delinquency.

The IRS also states that “no part of a section 501(c)(3) organization’s net earnings may inure to the benefit of any private shareholder or individual.”

A non-profit charity takes in money from donations and other sources. The key part of the IRS definition is that the net earnings may not profit any shareholder or individual.

What’s Included in the Net Earnings of a Charitable Organization?

The area of the IRS definition that confuses people is the bit about net earnings. Let’s talk about what is included in net earnings.

For any business, net earnings (sometimes called net income) are calculated by subtracting operating expenses from revenue. Non-profit charities get revenue from donations, grants, and memberships. They may also get revenue from selling branded products.

A non-profit organization’s expenses may include:

  • Rent or mortgage payments
  • Purchase of necessary supplies
  • Transportation/Gas
  • Utilities
  • Money for essential services
  • Employee salaries and compensation

The last item is one that can cause a great deal of confusion, particularly when some charities are in the news for what seem to be unnecessarily high salaries paid to executives.

How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (2)

How Do Non-Profit Business Founders Earn Money?

The number one question people have about running a non-profit is how non-profit owners – who are usually referred to as founders – get paid. If the IRS rules say that the earnings of a non-profit may not “inure to the benefit of any shareholder or individual,”

…how is it possible that non-profit owners and employees can earn a salary for the work they do?

Let me try to break it down for you.

The IRS differentiates between a benefit and fair compensation for work that is done. A non-profit founder may pay themselves a fair salary for the work they do running the organization. Likewise, they can compensate full-time and part-time employees for the work they do.

Non-profit founders earn money for running the organizations they founded. They often put in long work hours and make far less money than executives at for-profit organizations. When running a non-profit is their sole employment, it is reasonable for them to draw a salary for the work they do.

One of the things that can lead to confusion around the issue of compensation for non-profit owners is that there is no hard-and-fast rule about how much they may be paid. However, the IRS can and does penalize organizations that overpay executives or employees.

You may have seen stories in the news about unscrupulous non-profit charities and their mismanagement of money. One of the most infamous cases was the one involving the United Way, whose former CEO was convicted of fraud in 1995.

The bottom line is that non-profit founders and employees are paid from the gross revenues of the organization. These salaries are considered part of the operating costs of the organization.

What is Considered Reasonable Compensation?

The primary guidelines for both executive compensation and employee compensation at non-profit organizations are that the wages paid must:

  1. Meet all local, state, and federal guidelines for the minimum wage; and
  2. Be reasonable, fair, and not excessive; and
  3. Include all benefits as part of the total compensation package.

Non-profit charities must walk a fine line between keeping their operating expenses low and competing with the for-profit sector for qualified employees; not an easy task. It is the responsibility of every charity to navigate the process of determining fair salaries that also manage to be competitive enough to attract the employees they need.

For executives, the road can be very difficult to travel. The recommended best practices from the Council of Non-Profits says that:

  1. Executive salaries must be disclosed to and approved by the non-profit’s executive board on an annual basis.
  2. The compensation voted upon must include all benefits.

In other words, a non-profit founder’s compensation package might include:

  • An annual salary
  • Medical benefits
  • Paid time off
  • A pre-approved bonus structure

Having the board vote on an executive’s compensation package is one of the best ways to ensure that the payment is not excessive and that it allows the bulk of the charity’s revenue to be put toward the organization’s mission.

How to Check on a Non-profit Business

When you interact with a charitable organization, whether it’s as a donor, member, or recipient of goods or services, it’s important to do some research to determine the charity’s status regarding its financial management, including employee compensation.

There are several organizations that track charities and grade them based on how they operate. They are:

These organizations track and rate charities based on criteria that may include:

  • The charity’s classification
  • Its descriptions of its activities and financial management
  • In-depth review of financial statements
  • In-depth review of tax returns

The goal with the ratings is to provide the public with a tangible way to measure a charity’s financial status and management of funds. The drawback is that in most cases, a charity must have at least seven years’ worth of financial reporting and tax returns to get a rating. That means that newer charities may not yet be rated as in the case with Blue Heart.

Although Blue Heart has been around for 10 years, it’s only been in the last 2-3 years that we have actually been receiving help from grant monies.

If a charity is not rated, there are still some ways to get a feeling for how a charity operates. One popular method is to examine the charity’s overhead percentage. On average, charities spend about 20% of their revenue on overhead.

However, the percentage of overhead being high is not necessarily an indication that the charity is misusing funds or even overspending. In fact, charities that skimp on overhead may not operate as efficiently as they could – and that inefficiency can have a negative impact on their ability to deliver services to the people who need them.

What’s The Point

Before you start coming up with speculative assumptions about how a Non-profit business should get paid, understand that both executives and employees of charitable organization must receive fair compensation for the work they do. Volunteers play a role as well, but people who are employed by non-profit organizations in an official capacity are paid according to their experience and responsibilities. That includes executives and owners, many of whom put in long hours to ensure that the charities they work for meet their obligations to the communities they serve.

How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (3)

How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (4)

Together We Rise!

The Blue Heart Foundation

Our Mission

“Building community equity by providing an inclusive and secure path to higher education, emotional wellness, and personal development for underserved male youth.”

Email
support@theblueheartfoundation.org

Location
San Diego CA 92154

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  1. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (5)

    Ishmael I.on November 28, 2020 at 5:14 pm

    I have to say this was one of the better websites that I came up on and looking for information regarding compensation founders of nonprofit charities. I am in the process of deciding whether to start a business or a nonprofit charity. And my main concern is the compensation structure for myself and for employees. Thanks.

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (6)

      K. Rileson October 30, 2021 at 5:47 am

      Yes I totally agree. It truly answered all of my questions and in details and in the way in which anyone can understand it. It made u finally feel as if you have found many if not all of your answers in a very clear manner and finally in one place and without having to fill out 3 forms, purchase 2 items, give all of your personal information & then pay a small 1x fee to get the information lmbo (I’m over exaggerating but you get the point) It was very informative & refreshing.

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (7)

        K.Bee*on February 17, 2022 at 7:54 am

        I agree. I found this article very useful.

        Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (8)

        Susan Freedon March 4, 2022 at 3:19 pm

        I am wondering if my Facebook support group would be considered a non profit. Anyone know? I am the administer of a private group. We treat with medications via a on profit and I have over 450 members. New one eaxmch day asking to come in.

        Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (9)

          Cecilia Brumfieldon October 24, 2023 at 7:00 pm

          I started a non profit for Homelessness disabled mental and or abused. Rental assistance resources utility and Internet transitional housing let’s work something so we both can get donations and start an event for holiday youths in christ.

          Reply

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (10)

            Kevinon November 10, 2023 at 5:27 am

            I totally agree! I’m here looking for information to start a non profit. I spend most nights just driving around looking to share the love of Christ. Anything form food, rides in the rain, blankets and coats to simple prayers gas money (alot of people sleeping in cars these days). I really don’t know what direction to go. I was hoping to start a group Called the Sleepless Nights only because that’s normally when I’m out. Pin pointing the best way to help is hard.. well not really because God’s word and salvation does it all but the world is a hard thing to let go of especially when you have very little. Convincing them they are half way there seems like crazy talk at times. I pray you get up and running and share the word on the way!

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (11)

            Luke Dommeon December 4, 2023 at 1:05 pm

            I am haveing a difficult time finding any amount or resources to be able and get my non profit programs going for our youth..somone, anyone help me out

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (12)

        Latasha R Allenon January 17, 2023 at 4:52 pm

        I need help with a program to help felony not to go back to jail but don’t know who to talk to get it started

        Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (13)

          April Goretcki-Combson May 1, 2023 at 12:17 am

          I’m interested in seeing what if anything that you have come up with.
          Great idea!
          Anything that I can do to help.
          I’m good at research.

          Anxiously Awaiting to hear from you Latasha R Allen.

          Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (14)

          Cecilia Brumfieldon October 24, 2023 at 7:04 pm

          Cecilia Brumfield here I have transitional housing placement for cons as well as transitional housing for pedophiles to be set in one area. Away from children with their own job placement. No one needs to be repeat offender. We want to help these folks stay out safe alive and well. Everyone makes mistakes. Up to them to move on and make up with their inner selves

          Reply

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (15)

            Ashleyon January 5, 2024 at 1:57 pm

            Hi Cecilia! Is your transitional housing a nonprofit? I’m extremely interested in starting a transitional house of my own. Any help will be GREATLY appreciated:)

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (17)

      Cle Rayon October 4, 2022 at 11:51 am

      This was very informative. Thank you I’m considering starting a non profit for seniors. I was let go from my job after running it for four years. I was forced to leave behind so man seniors., I’m in the development stages now.

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (18)

        Angela Masonon October 6, 2022 at 2:03 pm

        I just want to thank you for all your advice it really helped put in perspective some things for me and my nonprofit And thank you for your kind heart and taking the time to help others

        Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (19)

        Johntanggoon July 18, 2023 at 6:08 pm

        I’m not a rich person that can effort joining nonprofit and wait for 7 years to get something back and waste my time on my phone for charity I create fb account for to earn some earning but it goes otherway as charity account join Google llc toto earn from youtube its also goes wrong as none profit account joint to guide star I check with irs no information about my details how can this happen I don’t understand but donation collected by noneprofit org 6 years ready by now but I’m not a US resident excepted account as nonprofit for US with guidestar how can I solve this matter I don’t mind to become as charity if I can also earn for my self how to help someone if you got nothing that’s the main thing irs or nonprofit never thought of The person who really can bring good value to org big profits to irs my real name not the same which I fill down here

        Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (20)

          Johnon October 20, 2023 at 5:13 am

          Step number 1: Go to school and learn how to spell and write

          Reply

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (21)

            Charleson December 27, 2023 at 6:30 am

            @John

            Making fun of people in such a manner just shows how immature amd unintelligent you are.

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (22)

            Charleson December 27, 2023 at 6:32 am

            I know how to spell and, it was a typo. So come at me if you feel the need to empower yourself…

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (23)

            Regina L Powellon February 9, 2024 at 5:41 am

            Yes John, you are absolutely correct! No pun intended.

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (25)

      cweigandon December 15, 2022 at 1:19 am

      I work for a non profit hospital and am the lowest paid in my field. The company has a ridiculous salary cap. I’ll never make any more money. I don’t know how much the COO makes but he seems pretty clueless. I wonder if he is even qualified for the job. I’m not impressed with this “faith based” hospital.

      Reply

  2. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (26)

    Christinaon December 10, 2020 at 4:17 am

    Wow. This information was very beneficial. It is much appreciated.🙏🏽

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (27)

      Glenciaon June 9, 2022 at 5:02 am

      Helpful information indeed. Thank you🤝

      Reply

  3. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (28)

    Greyon January 7, 2021 at 7:19 pm

    Blue Foundation. Got it. I make lists of people or organizations that help me so that I may return the favor in the future. Thank you.

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (29)

      Glentonon September 25, 2021 at 2:40 pm

      Informative, would like to grow our business and develop our community ,that’s the way to go.
      Thanks and keep on giving.

      Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (30)

      Tammy Ackermanon December 13, 2021 at 4:44 am

      Yes thank you it is difficult as a founder to figure out compensation fairly .. how do I find out more info on how to benchmark salaries packages and what rules help to be sure it is fair

      Reply

  4. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (31)

    Keren-Esther Harpon January 11, 2021 at 4:15 pm

    Yes, this article was very helpful.

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (32)

      Chaplain Patrick Whiteon September 20, 2021 at 11:38 pm

      It was a blessing to read and gave me not only the information that I was looking for but at almost 80 years old I am going ahead with my non profit project.

      Thank you so much and may others who have read and considered this for yourself, go ahead. Believe like I fo that if.i can do it at my age and health situation so can you. Blessings be upon everyone who has the courage to start.

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (33)

        Flashon October 8, 2021 at 1:01 am

        Thank you for your wonderful and most inspirational message. I have been considering whether or not to make my new business a for profit or non for profit business.

        Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (34)

          Simphiweon March 17, 2022 at 6:50 pm

          Thanks for wonderful work. Am founder NPO khula Nathi community org, our object agriculture, education, sports infrastructure. It possible to help us to find department who’s willing to pay our volunteers members

          Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (35)

          Cassandra Claiborneon March 9, 2023 at 2:44 am

          HIV prevention facility and awareness program for this local area.

          Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (36)

        Ben Torreson October 12, 2021 at 7:05 pm

        Blessings to you and may the Lord bless you with good health. May you succeed in your in your non profit project

        Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (37)

        Michael Escardoon October 23, 2021 at 1:44 pm

        I’m part of organization of best buddies that can bring younger kids with disabilities and downsyndrom for there help to support them on a write path and I believe community service

        Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (38)

          Lisa Harris Hamptonon January 29, 2023 at 4:58 pm

          Thanks so much for this information. I’m restarting my nonprofit. I quit my job before to run the company when I founded it but couldn’t sustain myself. I’m working again but want to position myself to run the company full time when I retire from teaching. And truth be told, I really need to get paid to do it. IJS

          Reply

        • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (39)

          Bon March 31, 2023 at 10:06 am

          Great article!! Very helpful! I would love to create a non profit that operates like a crowd funded lottery. As far as I know, there is a lot of laws in place that prevent it but I think it’s one of the single best ways to empower a community by giving someone within it the financial resources to develop effective habits and achieve their dreams

          Reply

          • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (40)

            Susan Garrison Beavenon February 27, 2024 at 11:52 am

            I’m not sure what a crowd funded lottery is but it sounds interesting.

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (42)

        Corinaon March 29, 2022 at 8:19 pm

        Thank you I will take that blessing as I begin my journey in creating my non profit organization.

        Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (43)

        Roody Auponton October 4, 2022 at 4:53 am

        Great read, very informative. Am also in the process of obtaining my 501 3c and gathering solid board members to launch. This was very useful info. @80 that is a miracle. Keep on being awesome and express yourself with your NPO. May God bless you.

        Reply

  5. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (44)

    Luckeeon February 2, 2021 at 6:43 pm

    Thank you

    That was exactly what I was looking for

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (45)

      Hamzaon September 4, 2021 at 6:53 pm

      What the pay as a social media Director in non profit.?

      Reply

  6. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (46)

    Michael Colemanon February 24, 2021 at 1:00 pm

    Excellent content. I love the image in your logo “He ain’t heavy” by Gilbert Young.

    I’m looking to start a non-profit.

    Reply

  7. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (47)

    Dr. Broussard, DNPon February 24, 2021 at 2:33 pm

    Very resourceful and well written. Thank you for taking time to share this information!

    Reply

  8. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (48)

    Lashun Sanderferon April 14, 2021 at 11:53 am

    Thank you for this information. It’s very helpful and greatly appreciated.

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (49)

      Nichole Greenon July 28, 2021 at 3:43 pm

      Very informative and helpful article re: compensation for founders and employees of non-profit organizations.

      Content is exactly what I was looking for!

      Will share article with founder and fellow employees of our new non-profit organization in the Lowcountry of South Carolina.

      Thank you!

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (50)

        Marthaon March 26, 2022 at 10:23 pm

        Thank you so much this was very much so informative. God bless

        Reply

  9. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (51)

    Keith Hoganon May 1, 2021 at 8:12 pm

    Thank you Blue Heart Foundation for this Outstanding article about maintaining a non-profit organization the right way. I am the Founder of a 501c3 in Louisiana that I started in 2004 and there is still a lot to learn about being a public charity. Amen.

    Reply

  10. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (52)

    Denis Kleinon July 16, 2021 at 12:26 am

    Very good information. Lucky me I recently found your blog by accident (stumbleupon). I’ve saved it for later!

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (53)

      Rachel S Griffinon December 4, 2021 at 5:03 pm

      Yes the same here. My husband founded a non-profit 30 years ago and I was always the behind the scene wife. He now suffers from Dementia and I’m front and center. It’s a lot to take on but I am determined to keep his legacy alive.

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (54)

        Davidon May 21, 2022 at 12:12 am

        That’s an incredibly touching story. Best of luck to you.

        Reply

  11. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (55)

    Carla L Williamson August 19, 2021 at 6:03 am

    How do you start a non profit? Are they considered/labelled an LLC or INC or does it really matter? How does one get started if they have the desire to found a NPO? TIA & Sincerely, Carla Louise (Williams) aka Carly Black 🙂

    Reply

  12. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (56)

    Roderick Q. Howardon November 6, 2021 at 3:20 am

    Thank you for the information, it was very helpful and I hope to connect with you at some point on my venture with my 501(c)(3) nonprofit business.

    Reply

  13. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (57)

    KEWONon December 1, 2021 at 3:22 am

    Yes, I have to agree, thank you for the information provide. Very well detailed!

    Reply

  14. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (58)

    justiceon December 3, 2021 at 6:22 pm

    I am the CEO/Founder of a company. It is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization. Can my husband receive a % from the company that I am the founder of .

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (59)

      Paton January 17, 2022 at 8:03 pm

      I need an answer to this question also. We are founders. I am compensated. I need my husbands continual expertise and time in our 501c3 non profit. Can we both be compensated legally.

      Reply

  15. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (60)

    Peaceon December 3, 2021 at 6:23 pm

    I am the CEO/Founder of a company. It is a non-profit 501(C)3 organization. Can my husband receive a % from the company that I am the founder of .

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (61)

      Nick Grahamon October 4, 2022 at 7:14 am

      Your husband can be a paid employee of your nonprofit. If you are on the board, then your husband cannot legally be on the board with you.

      Reply

      • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (62)

        CELOKUHLE NTSHABAon March 1, 2024 at 7:38 pm

        I am one of the people who are interested to come up with something new different in my community, by creating a non profit organization. My problem is that I am very young and I do not have enough knowledge to where can I start. For example, what is the first step to take my plans into action since I want to build a NPO in my village.

        Reply

  16. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (63)

    Apeletey Amentoron December 27, 2021 at 12:05 pm

    It’s awesome with the kind of information published here.
    I had the opportunity to learn more than I expected.

    Reply

  17. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (64)

    Cicely Eversonon January 29, 2022 at 1:59 am

    This was a great article and one of only a few that break down such a tricky topic. I finally feel comfortable with the decision to pay myself fairly once we start bringing in revenue. Thank you!

    Reply

  18. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (65)

    Franklin Miamenon February 12, 2022 at 10:27 pm

    I am wishing to establish an NGO in entrepreneurship development program. How do I go about doing it?

    Reply

  19. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (66)

    Sunset Allenon March 12, 2022 at 11:25 pm

    This article was very enlightened and understandable. I’m happy I was lead to read this one.

    Reply

  20. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (67)

    Jacquelineon March 31, 2022 at 5:37 am

    This was very helpful..

    Reply

  21. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (68)

    Jacquelineon March 31, 2022 at 5:38 am

    Thank You…..

    Reply

  22. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (69)

    Jacquelineon March 31, 2022 at 5:38 am

    Thanks

    Reply

  23. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (70)

    Yolanda Bowmanon June 5, 2022 at 8:44 pm

    Great Information! This is what I was seeking. Thanks!

    Reply

  24. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (71)

    Rosalind Maxwellon November 7, 2022 at 4:43 pm

    Thank you for the information, it was greatly appreciated. Just what I needed

    Reply

  25. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (72)

    Kanyaon January 25, 2023 at 11:32 am

    Wonderful insight received. Much appreciated.

    Reply

  26. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (73)

    Steve Johnsonon March 7, 2023 at 1:57 pm

    Non-profit organizations use mobile apps to do a lot of different things. From fundraising to awareness-raising, mobile apps are a powerful tool for nonprofits. Much more knowledge about how to make money through mobile apps for your nonprofit. Keep writing this type of blogs.

    Reply

  27. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (74)

    Carolaon March 12, 2023 at 5:44 am

    Is a non-profit founder or director obliged to pay tax on its income from the stipend it gets?

    Reply

  28. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (75)

    Cindy Mileson April 18, 2023 at 2:34 pm

    There are no nonprofit business owners. Nonprofit organizations are governed by a board of directors who are legally and financially responsible for the organization. The title of the article gives people the impression that they can own a nonprofit, something we as an association are working very hard to debunk that myth.

    Reply

  29. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (76)

    Lehlogonolo Maponyaon June 16, 2023 at 6:30 am

    Very informative and easy to understand. Please continue with this great work that you are doing.

    Love from South Africa

    Reply

    • How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (77)

      Andres Cabreraon July 6, 2023 at 3:47 am

      The article is very appropriate, interested in stepping into the world of charity and this was an informative article. Will be passing website/information on.

      Reply

  30. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (78)

    Jenniferon December 18, 2023 at 2:23 am

    I agree with some of the previous comments in that the topic is clear, thorough, and concise. Many people are knowledgeable about a topic but they lack the talent for imparting knowledge to others. That said, we live in a culture where people learn how things work, acquire subject matter experitse, then continue to walk the well-worn path without ever questioning the way the system works.

    As I was in the process of trying to get a nonprofit advocacy org off the ground, I learned how the sysem works and concluded that the way the system works is defective. IRS policies that have the force of law are problematic and wrong. I think the notion of what a nonprofit is and how it should be structured and governed is sterotyped and outdated. For example, a handful of states permit a nonprofit to form as a standalone LLC. The IRS does not recognize that type of entiry (the Members must be a 501c3) and they regulate beyond their vested authority (there was a great book written about how the IRS lacks both the jurisdiction and authority in connection with nonprofit governance). The IRS dictating entity form and governance creates a preposterous situation in which a founder can lose control of their mission and be discharged altogether. They are also fixated on “control” creating risk of noncompliance. These are ideas, notions, presumptions, biases, and at worse, the mechanics of agendas – not based on the real world where out-of-the-box solutions and tight mission control are needed to effect change.

    Yet, A NPLLC with an owner, with an operating agreement that creates airtight controls, essentially conscribing “ownership” to stewardship and prohibiting a drawing acct but permitting compensation is beyond to grasp and imagination of the IRS. Consider an LLC owner compensation of 50K vs a NP Corp Board approved 6-figure or even 7-figure compensation pkg for a founder. It may not be inurement tehcnically, but it sure does take effect of inurement. There needs to be a coalition of stakeholders to press for reform. I think a lean structured and managed Nonprofit LLC is superior to a Board Governed NP Corp that the IRS dictates. The status quo is backward, inflexible, irrational, counterproductive, and has spawned an industry of parasitic fiscal sponsors that have exploited the destructive policies of the IRS into a revenue-producing model.

    Reply

  31. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (79)

    ilanon December 26, 2023 at 11:21 am

    I find myself ensconced within the realms of your blog, where intellectual exploration unfolds like an enchanting ballet, with each pirouette of thought and cadaence of expression enthralling the mind and stirring the depths of the intellect.

    Reply

  32. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (80)

    beylikdüzü masaj salonuon December 29, 2023 at 5:21 pm

    Thank you for sharing your unique gifts and talents with the world through your blog.

    Reply

  33. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (81)

    Terry Norwoodon January 3, 2024 at 4:14 pm

    Thank you very much for sharing your knowledge. I have worked for non profits as a volunteer for years then created one recently and want to ensure I develop it legitimately. Your article helped me feel confident I am on the correct path. Appreciatively!

    Reply

  34. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (82)

    Tyler Reberon January 28, 2024 at 7:51 pm

    I’ve been building a website to aid in the learning of all computer science related subjects. I don’t plan on charging, everyone has full free access to the site.

    I’ve been wondering if it qualifies as a non-profit.

    Reply

  35. How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (83)

    Susan Garrison Beavenon February 27, 2024 at 12:03 pm

    I’m not sure what a crowd funded lottery is but it sounds interesting.

    Reply

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  2. How to Find a Grant Writer for Your Non-Profit - The Blue Heart Foundation - […] final step is to build relationships with non-profit organizations in your area. If you already work for a non-profit,…
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How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? (2024)

FAQs

How Do Non-Profit Business Owners Get Paid? ›

For any business, net earnings (sometimes called net income) are calculated by subtracting operating expenses from revenue. Non-profit charities get revenue from donations, grants, and memberships. They may also get revenue from selling branded products.

How do nonprofit owners get paid? ›

The founder is hired by the nonprofit as the executive director (or in a similar leadership role). This way, the founder is paid, but they do give up all their authority to the board of directors, which governs the nonprofit and has hiring/firing authority of the founder's position.

How do you make a non profit successful? ›

Here's what they had to say:
  1. Raise Funds And Save Money.
  2. Speak The Same Language.
  3. Focus On ROI.
  4. Build Models Of Earned Income.
  5. Run Your Nonprofit Like A Startup.
  6. Generate Revenue Through Corporations.
  7. Don't Ignore Expenses.
  8. Match Costs And Benefits.
Mar 7, 2018

How do nonprofit organizations raise most of their money? ›

There are five main ways charities and nonprofits raise funds and stretch their dollars: using volunteers, hosting gala fundraising events, selling products, sponsoring events, and advertising to bring in more donations.

How is a non profit CEO salary determined? ›

A nonprofit will often use financial information from other organizations in its industry to set salary benchmarks. This information is used to determine an appropriate level of compensation for its own CEO.

Can the CEO of a nonprofit be paid? ›

While there is no clear answer as to how much you can pay your CEO, it's generally a good idea to have your board of directors conduct an annual review. This is a good way to see if the salary you created is equivalent to other nonprofits that are similar in size and located in the same area.

How does nonprofit ownership work? ›

Instead of owners, nonprofits have stakeholders. Stakeholders don't own the nonprofit, either, and their position relative to the nonprofit is quite different from, say, a for-profit corporation's shareholders. Stakeholders include everyone who has an interest in the operation of the organization.

What are 2 disadvantages of a nonprofit organization? ›

Disadvantages of forming a nonprofit corporation
  • Expenses. Forming a statutory nonprofit company requires filing documents with the state business entity filing office - which means filing fees. ...
  • Ongoing compliance obligations. ...
  • Management oversight. ...
  • No lobbying or political campaigning.

How do nonprofit businesses operate without seeking profits? ›

Nonprofits may solicit donations from individuals, businesses, and government entities. They use the proceeds to create and maintain programs that benefit their target community or cause. Because they are using their income to further a cause, the U.S. tax code allows nonprofits to be exempt from taxes.

Can you become a millionaire from non profit? ›

An individual can become a billionaire from running a non-profit organization. The money comes through compensation done by the organization in the form of taxable salary, but these do not significantly contribute to the billions. Much of the money comes from investments made by the non-founders.

Can you make a living running a nonprofit? ›

Want to take your nonprofit from your passion project to your full time job? Yes, it's possible to make a living running a nonprofit organization that you started from the ground up—but keep in mind these important considerations before taking the leap.

What do nonprofits need most? ›

Above all, nonprofits depend on one key resource to fulfill their missions: qualified, skilled, and talented board members, staff, and volunteers.

Which non profit gives the most money? ›

Largest charities in the United States in 2023, by total revenue (in billion U.S. dollars)
CharacteristicRevenue in billion U.S. dollars
The Arc5.14
Feeding America4.36
United Way Worldwide3.51
American National Red Cross3.42
9 more rows
Mar 12, 2024

Can a founder of a nonprofit be fired? ›

The board of directors are the owners of the nonprofit. They hire, or fire, the Executive Director. Even if the founder is the Executive Director, he or she can be fired from that nonprofit. If you wanted to keep control, then you should have been on the board (unpaid) instead...

Does the president of a nonprofit get paid? ›

As of Apr 6, 2024, the average annual pay for a Nonprofit President in the United States is $186,961 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $89.89 an hour. This is the equivalent of $3,595/week or $15,580/month.

What is the pay ratio for a nonprofit CEO? ›

The median ratio was 2.7:1, meaning the CEO was paid 2.7 times as much as the median employee at the same grantmaking organization. The reported ratios are as low as 0.2:1 (where the median employee makes more than the CEO) and climb to 9.5:1 (where the CEO makes almost 10 times as much in salary alone).

Can the founder of a nonprofit be the CEO? ›

In general, it is legal for a nonprofit founder to serve as the CEO and receive a salary for their work. However, it is important to note that the nonprofit's board of directors is responsible for approving the CEO's compensation and ensuring that it is reasonable and in line with industry standards.

How much of a nonprofit budget should be salaries? ›

Salaries are a large part of a nonprofit's program expenses, as it cannot run without a staff. The Better Business Bureau's Charity Accountability Standards state that nonprofits should spend at least 65% of their operating budget on program expenses. About 75% to 90% of this 65% should go toward paying employees.

Do nonprofits have to publish salaries? ›

Nonprofits that file Form 990 or 990-EZ are required to report the compensation of its highest paid staff members. Since this information is public record, potential donors can look to see if staff salaries are reasonable and compare how much the nonprofit spends for programs versus salaries.

What non profit company has the highest paid CEO? ›

In 2022, the nonprofit organization in the U.S. with the highest paid CEO was Sentara Health, with an estimated salary of 33.22 million U.S. dollars. That year, seven of the top ten nonprofits with the highest paid CEOs belonged to the healthcare industry.

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