[MrTechCenter]

Our team is registered as a 501(c)3. This allows us to have our own bank account (which is registered under the team's legal name, but tied to our teacher advisor's name, meaning he has control over it). When initially registering, it can be a little complicated, but overall it's not too difficult. Find out about how to file in your state. In California, we have to send our legal documents to the state every other year, just to make sure that they change whatever changes in the team. The IRS form, however, is necessary to remain tax-exempt and provide sponsors and donors with tax-deductions. This form (after the first year) is a simple few clicks online. We got started as a non-profit by consulting a tax lawyer, who made the whole process so much easier for us. If this is an option for you, I highly recommend pursuing it. Our only attachment to the school is our legal name which has the school's name in it, and a school bank account for fundraisers that we do at school.