What it is
A charter states how a board works: what it is for, who sits on it, what it oversees and how often it meets. It does not replace the articles, bylaws or state law, and counsel should review it before adoption.
The template covers purpose, composition and independence, a table of responsibilities from strategy to whistleblowing, meetings and quorum, committees, director expectations and advisers, with adoption signatures.
When to use it
- Forming a board or formalizing governance after growth.
- Preparing for an audit, financing or sale.
- The board’s yearly governance review.
What’s inside
- Purpose and composition
- Responsibilities table
- Meetings, quorum and executive sessions
- Committees, director expectations and adoption block
Standard cited
This template follows Governance. It is written in our own words, except for phrases the standard requires the document to contain, with [bracketed placeholders] for client details, amounts in USD and dates as MM/DD/YYYY. Check it against the current standard and your firm’s methodology before use.
Questions
Is a charter required?
Not for most private entities. Listed companies and some regulated or grant-funded entities have requirements. A charter helps any board record what it expects of itself.
How does it relate to the bylaws?
The bylaws govern if there is a conflict. The charter adds detail on practice.
How often should it be reviewed?
At least yearly. The charter provides for it.
Related templates
- Audit Committee Charter
- Board Meeting Agenda and Minutes Template
- Communication With Those Charged With Governance (AU-C 260)
- Required Communications with Those Charged with Governance (AU-C 260)
Last updated 11/05/2026. All free templates.