Legal Definitions - benefit association

A benefit association is a type of unincorporated, nonprofit organization that has a philanthropic or charitable purpose. It is also known as a benevolent association, beneficial association, benevolent society, fraternal society, or friendly society.

For example, a benefit association may be formed to provide financial assistance, medical care, or other benefits to its members or their families in times of need. These associations are often formed by groups of people who share a common interest or profession, such as firefighters, police officers, or teachers.

Benefit associations are different from other types of associations, such as trade associations or professional associations, which are formed for mutual protection, the interchange of ideas and statistics, and the establishment and maintenance of industry standards.