The following attributes are used to differentiate between categories of organizations for managing finances. The majority of organizations will fall under the Standard classification. If you think the unique nature of your group means that you should be in one of the other categories, contact Jennifer.Mendelsohn@yale.eduto to discuss it further.
- Standard Organizations: Standard organizations comprise the majority of graduate student organizations. These organizations do not generate outside revenue and have not been granted 501(c)(3) nonprofit tax-exempt status and do not need a bank account.
- Revenue Generating Organizations: Revenue generating organizations receive funding from outside of GSAS, which may be from another Yale department, or a source external to Yale. Sources of revenue include, but are not limited to fees, contributions, and sponsorships. These organizations will need to consult with the GSAS business office to determine the appropriate mechanisms to manage and control revenue. These organizations have not been granted tax-exempt status by the IRS but may still be responsible for filing a tax return.
- Tax Exempt Organizations :Tax-exempt organizations have applied for and been granted tax exempt status under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. These organizations would need to consult with the GSAS business office for guidance on additional responsibilities that accompany tax exempt status. Graduate student organizations that have been granted tax exempt status are solely responsible for any and all related requirements, including but not limited to, filing an annual tax return (Form 990).
Member Dues and Fees
GSAS Student organizations may determine that organization members are responsible for paying a fee with their membership or ‘Dues’. Dues are considered membership fees that are collected to provide access to perks, opportunities, events, and activities for organization members. It is unethical and not permitted to use dues money towards payment of organization officers or advisors, or for personal gain/profit/use by a member.
Admission charges
Admission charges may be levied for organized social functions only in the event of substantial entertainment costs and never to cover the purchase of alcoholic beverages. No admission charge or any other fee may be levied for private social functions on or off campus.
Sponsorships
If your organization is interested in soliciting sponsorship from individuals or companies to help fund your group and/or an event, you must first get approval of solicitation materials from the Director of the McDougal Center. Materials must clearly communicate sponsorship will be for your organization and not Yale University, and, as a sponsorship, any money given would not be tax deductible. Please email materials, along with a list of potential sponsors, to Jennifer.Mendelsohn@yale.edu.