Initial board actions allow your nonprofit to address important matters early on, creating a clear framework for the organization's mission, operations, and management. Initial board actions can include items that have already been completed during other steps of the nonprofit formation process, such as processes outlined when selecting board members or drafting bylaws, that simply need board approval.

At an official board meeting or by unanimous written consent, your nonprofit’s board of directors should take the following actions:

• Adopt the nonprofit’s bylaws and conflict of interest policy

• Set the exact number of individuals authorized to serve as directors for the nonprofit’s board

• Establish the date your nonprofit’s fiscal year will end on

• Approve establishing a bank account for the nonprofit

• Approve applying for the nonprofit’s federal and state tax-exempt status

• Approve reimbursement of any applicable startup expenses for the nonprofit

• Approve the compensation of the nonprofit’s officers and individuals performing the function of officers, such as the Executive Director

Your nonprofit organization should keep detailed records of the actions approved by the board, as well as information about each individual serving as a director. Working with an attorney experienced in California nonprofit law can help ensure the right documentation is collected and stored in accordance with all applicable legal requirements.