The short answer is no. Most people recognize that the vast majority of board members of charitable nonprofits are unpaid volunteers.While it is not a good idea for a nonprofit board to appoint paid employees, there is typically at least one paid employee in the room when the board meets. Nonprofit board members can legally get paid, but most should not be. Learn why you should NOT pay your board. Can nonprofit board of directors get paid? The law may generally allow for a public charity to pay some, but not all, board members, for services offered other than as a board member. It is legal for nonprofit founders and officers to receive a salary for their work for the nonprofit. Let's talk about how much you can pay yourself. Nonprofit: Nonprofit board members usually serve as volunteers.