Good Standing is more than a requirement; it’s a roadmap for a healthy, effective PTA. Explore the resources below to understand key deadlines, responsibilities, and best practices that help your local unit thrive.

To be in good standing your PTA Unit/Council must:

Get the PTA Year Started

Complete these items at the beginning of each PTA year.

1. Set up or update your free Givebacks account and Stripe account to:

  • submit compliance document
  • manage memberships
  • operate your online store

2. Submit your current officer list through Givebacks

DUE SEPTEMBER 15

Membership Responsibilities

Maintain and report memberships throughout the year.

1. Remit State and National PTA dues for at least 15 members through Givebacks (can use new Opt-In feature for automatic processing)

2. Remit State and National PTA dues ($6.25 per member) to Wisconsin PTA by the 15th of each month for all memberships collected during the previous month

15+ Members DUE November 1

Manage Governance & Bylaws

Keep your PTA’s governing documents current by reviewing and updating bylaws every three years (or sooner if desired).

Before adopting revised bylaws:

1. Post the proposed bylaws for member review for 30 days.

2. Bring revised bylaws up for a vote at an association meeting.

3. Obtain a two-thirds (2/3) approval vote from members present.

4. Upload the signed bylaws through the Compliance tab in Givebacks.

Financial Review & IRS Compliance

Complete annual financial and tax reporting requirements.

1. Submit proof of your Annual Financial Review (Audit) through Givebacks.

DUE November 1

2. Submit proof of filing required IRS tax forms through Givebacks (online filing confirmation or completed forms).

DUE November 15

 

 

 

 

Units Not in Good Standing

While Wisconsin PTA is committed to helping units become compliant, failure to meet good standing requirements may result in the following consequences:

Membership Requirements

If a unit or council does not remit dues for at least 15 members by November 1st, the unit may be evaluated for charter withdrawal and may lose its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Bylaws & Financial Review

If a unit or council does not maintain current bylaws or submit a completed financial review within one year of the due date, the unit may be required to work with a Wisconsin PTA Board member for additional support and could be at risk of losing its 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

IRS Filing Requirements

PTAs are required to file annual tax forms with the IRS.

Failure to file may result in IRS penalties or fines.

Failure to file for three consecutive years will result in the IRS revoking the unit’s 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

 

 

A person sitting at a desk with papers flying in the air.

Need Help Getting Back on Track?

Wisconsin PTA is here to help.

If you’re unsure whether your unit is in good standing, or if you’ve fallen behind on a requirement, please email info@wisconsinpta.org as soon as possible. Most good standing issues can be resolved much more easily when addressed early.

Our goal is to support local leaders and help every PTA remain healthy, compliant, and focused on serving students and families.

Don’t wait to ask for help. It’s often much easier to catch up on a missed requirement than to address the loss of nonprofit or tax-exempt status after the fact.