Most people recognize that the vast majority of board members of charitable nonprofits are unpaid volunteers. 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. Michigan law allows the board of a nonprofit corporation to hold regular or special meetings as needed. 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. Planning to start a nonprofit in Michigan, USA? Read this guide for a comprehensive overview of all the steps you need to take. Another organization that compensates board members is the Detroitbased Skillman Foundation. Nonprofit board members can legally get paid, but most should not be. Learn why you should NOT pay your board.