Bylaws definition

What are Bylaws?

Bylaws are the rules used by an organization for how it conducts business. The rules that may be included in the bylaws address the election of directors, the frequency and nature of board meetings, the types of committees of the board of directors, the types of officers, how the organization can be dissolved, and various corporation policies. Bylaws are not filed with any government agencies.

How to Alter Bylaws

Alterations to the bylaws require a vote of the shareholders or members of the organization. Given the level of difficulty involved, bylaws are rarely altered.

Bylaws vs. Articles of Incorporation

Bylaws are different from the articles of incorporation of a business, which only state how the entity is structured. The articles must be filed with the state government in which an entity is incorporated.

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