Classes are groups of members that have different sets of rights. For example, some non-profits have voting and non-voting classes of members. 

Some of the risks of not having a membership policy are that it might be confusing who is a member and for how long the membership will last. Your non-profit’s bylaws should state how long the membership will last. Ideally it is on an annual basis.

Many non-profits have bylaws that require the board to have the final say on whether an individual can join. However, many non-profits have gotten out of the habit of taking this important step. 

Members of a non-profit are most often defined in the bylaws. They might also be described in its articles. Your non–profit’s bylaws might use a word other than member such as supporter or congregants. 

Remuneration is when a non-profit gives money to its directors for being a director (e.g. wages, honoraria).

Remuneration does not include gifts (i.e. small, irregular tokens of appreciation).

Financial statements are a broad overview of the non-profit’s financial position, presented to members at each AGM. 

Financial statements must include the four following documents: 

A fiscal year  is a one-year period of time that a non-profit  uses for accounting purposes and preparation of its financial statements.

For example, non-profits have their fiscal year aligned with the calendar year (January 1 to December 31) or government year end (March 31).