DOCUMENT ID: LODGE-15
TITLE: Escrow, Accounts, and Separation Rules
VERSION: 1.0
STATUS: Active Draft
APPLIES TO: Charity Helpers Foundation (501(c)(3)) and Civic Helpers Network (501(c)(4), planned)

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ESCROW, ACCOUNTS, AND SEPARATION RULES

PURPOSE

This document defines how funds, accounts, and escrow arrangements are handled.
Its purpose is to ensure legal compliance, financial clarity, and protection of all participants.

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SEPARATE ACCOUNTS REQUIRED

Charitable and civic funds must be fully separated.

This means:
- separate bank accounts
- separate accounting records
- separate payment processors where applicable
- no shared wallets or pooled funds

Commingling of funds is prohibited.

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ESCROW USE

Escrow may be used for:
- project-specific funds
- time-limited initiatives
- conditional releases

Escrow arrangements must:
- clearly define purpose
- define release conditions
- identify responsible parties
- allow audit or review if required

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WHO MAY HOLD FUNDS

Funds may be held only by:
- the appropriate legal entity
- an approved fiscal agent
- a documented escrow arrangement

Individuals may not hold funds on behalf of the system unless explicitly authorized.

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NO CROSS-ENTITY SUPPORT

Funds from one entity may not:
- subsidize the other entity
- cover expenses across frameworks
- be used to bypass restrictions

Expenses must align with the entity under which they were incurred.

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PROJECT-LEVEL ACCOUNTABILITY

Projects involving funds must:
- identify a responsible party
- document inflows and outflows
- report completion or termination

Unspent funds must be handled according to stated terms.

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SERVICE FEES AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS

When coordination or escrow services are provided:
- any service or administrative fee must be disclosed in advance
- fees must be reasonable and purpose-based
- fees may not be profit-driven

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NO PERSONAL ENRICHMENT

Funds may not be used for:
- personal enrichment
- unapproved compensation
- undisclosed benefits

Violations are grounds for immediate corrective action.

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SUMMARY

Clear separation protects everyone.

Escrow and account discipline prevent confusion, risk, and misuse.

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END OF DOCUMENT
