How to Start a Nonprofit Organization

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Nonprofit Startup Guide
Overview

This page outlines the state filings to incorporate a nonprofit. Click on your state below to access information on the forms and fees.

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Alabama

Our Resources:

Alabama Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Name Reservation Request Form for Domestic Entities
  • Name Reservation Certificate
  • Form SOSDF-5: Domestic Nonprofit Corporation Certificate of Formation template
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form COM-101: Alabama Department of Revenue Combined Registration/Application
  • Alabama Charitable Organizations Registration Statement or Alabama Charitable Organizations Registration Exemption

Cost

  • Name reservation: $28
  • Incorporation: $100 state filing fee + min $50 county filing fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Alabama charitable registration: $25 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Name reservation: 24 hours
  • Incorporation: 4 days to ~6 weeks
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Alaska

Our Resources:

Alaska Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 08-438: Articles of Incorporation Domestic Nonprofit Corporation
  • Initial Report
  • Form 08-4181: New Alaska Business License Application
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Alaska Charitable Organizations Annual Registration Form

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50
  • Alaska business license: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Alaska Charitable Registration: $40

Time

  • Incorporation: ~10-15 business days by mail. Immediately online.
  • Alaska business license: ~10-15 business days by mail. Immediately online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Arizona

Our Resources:

Arizona Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CFCVLR: Cover sheet
  • Form CF0041: Articles of Incorporation
  • Form C082: Director attachment, if applicable
  • Form C084: Incorporator attachment, if applicable
  • Form M002: Statutory Agent Acceptance
  • Form CF0001: Certificate of disclosure
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form JT-1: State Tax Registration, if applicable
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $40 + optional $35 expedite fee
  • Publishing of incorporation: ~$200
  • Arizona state taxes: $12 per license/location
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

Arkansas

Our Resources:

Arkansas Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NPD-01: Articles of Incorporation - Domestic Nonprofit or Form NPD-01-501: Articles of Incorporation - Domestic Nonprofit (501(c)(3) Compliant Language)
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form AR-1R: Combined Business Tax Registration Form
  • Form AR1023CT: Application for Income Tax Exempt Status
  • Form F0003: Streamlined Sales and Use Tax Agreement Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Charitable Organization Application for Registration or the Verification of Exemption From Registr

Cost

  • Incorporation: $45-50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~2-4 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

California

Our Resources:

California Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Articles of Incorporation, either:
    • Form ARTS-MU - Mutual Benefit Corp
    • Form ARTS-PB - Public Benefit Corp
    • Form ARTS-RE - Religious Corp
    • Form ARTS-CID - CID Corp
  • Form SI-100: Statement of Information
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form FTB-3500: Exemption Application or Form FTB-3500a: Submission of Exemption Request
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30 by mail or $45 in-person + optional $250-$500 preclearance service + optional $350-$500 expedited filing service
  • Statement of information: $20
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • California FTB exemption: $25 ($0 for exemption request)
  • California charitable registration: $25

Time

Colorado

Our Resources:

Colorado Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form ARTINC_NPC: Articles of Incorporation for a Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form CR-0100: Colorado Sales Tax Withholding Account Application
  • Form UITL-100: Application for Unemployment Insurance Account and Determination of Employer Liability, if applicable
  • Form DR-0715: Application for Sales Tax Exemption for Colorado Organizations
  • Form DR-0716: Statement of Non-Profit - Church, Synagogue, or Organization
  • Colorado Charitable Registration (onlin

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Colorado charitable license: $8
  • Colorado charitable registration: $10

Time

  • Incorporation: Immediately
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Connecticut

Our Resources:

Connecticut Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CIN-1-1.0: Certificate of Incorporation Nonstock Corporation
  • Form COS-1-1.0: Organization and First Report - Stock or Non-Stock Corporations
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form REG-1: Business Tax Registration Application
  • CERT-119: Purchases of Tangible Personal Property and Services by Qualifying Exempt Organizations
  • Connecticut Initial Charitable Organization Registration Application

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50 + optional $50 expedite fee
  • First Report: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Connecticut charitable registration: $50 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-5 business days. ~24 hours for $50 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Delaware

Our Resources:

Delaware Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Certificate of Incorporation cover letter (recommended by Delaware Division of Corporations)
  • Form INCNSTK09: State of Delaware Certificate of Incorporation for Non-Stock Corporation or Form INC-Exempt: State of Delaware Certificate of Incorporation for Exempt Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form CRA: Combined Registration Application for State of Delaware Business License and/or Withholding Agent
  • Form UC-1: Report to Determine Liability, if applicable
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Submit copy of F

Cost

  • Incorporation: $89 + $9 for extra pages + optional $50-$1000 expedite fee
  • Delaware Form CRA: Varies based on applicable licenses/accounts
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3 weeks. ~24 hours for $50 state expedite fee. Same-day for $100 state expedite fee. ~2 hours for $500 state expedite fee. 1 hour for $1000 state expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

District Of Columbia

Our Resources:

District Of Columbia Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form DNP-1: D.C. Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form FR 500: D.C. Tax Registration
  • Form FR 164: D.C. Tax Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Business license:
    • D.C. Basic Business License for the Charitable Solicitation Category, or
    • D.C. General Business License
  • D.C. Charitable Gaming License, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $80 + optional $50-100 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • D.C. Basic Business License for the Charitable Solicitation Category ($412.50) or D.C. General Business License ($324.50)
  • Charitable gaming license: $10-500, if applicable

Time

  • Incorporation: ~15 business days. ~3 business days for $50 expedite fee. Same-day for $100 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months
  • Licenses: Immediate to ~3 weeks

Florida

Our Resources:

Florida Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CR2E006: Florida Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form DR-1: Florida Business Tax Application
  • Form DR-5: Florida Application for Consumer's Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form FDACS-10100: Solicitation of Contributions Registration Application, or Form FDACS-10110: Exempt Charitable Organizations/Sponsors Application.

Cost

  • Incorporation: $70
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Florida sales tax license: $5, if applicable
  • Florida Charitable registration: $10-$400 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1-3 days online. ~8-17 days by mail.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Georgia

Our Resources:

Georgia Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • GA Articles of Incorporation
  • GA Data Transmittal Form 227
  • GA Notice of Incorporation
  • GA Initial “Annual” Registration
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 3605: Application for Recognition of Exemption (optional)
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form C-100: Charitable Organization Registration

Cost

  • GA Articles of Incorporation: $100
  • GA Notice of Incorporation: $40
  • GA Initial “Annual” Registration: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Georgia Charitable registration: $35

Time

  • Incorporation: ~5-12 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Hawaii

Our Resources:

Hawaii Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form DNP-1: Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form BB-1: State of Hawaii Basic Business Application
  • Form G-6: Application for Exemption from General Excise Tax
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Hawaii Charitable Organization Registration or Exemption Application

Cost

  • Incorporation: $26 + optional $25 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Form BB-1: $20

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7-14 business days by mail. ~3-5 business days by fax, in-person, or online. ~1-3 business days if you file online and pay the $25 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Idaho

Our Resources:

Idaho Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 201: Domestic Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Idaho State Tax Registration (online)
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30 + optional $20 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1 week. ~1 business day with $20 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Illinois

Our Resources:

Illinois Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NFP 102.10: Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form REG-1: Illinois Business Registration Application
  • Illinois Sales Tax Exemption letter of request
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form CO-1: IL Charitable Registration Statement

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50 by mail or $77.75 online + optional $100 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Form REG-1: varies based on state tax accounts
  • Illinois Charitable Registration: $15

Time

  • Incorporation: ~2 weeks by mail or fax. ~1-5 business days if you file online and pay the $100 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Indiana

Our Resources:

Indiana Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 4162: Articles of Incorporation for a Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form BT-1: Indiana Business Tax Application
  • Form NP-20A: Nonprofit Application for Sales Tax Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form CG-QA: Indiana Charitable Gaming Qualification Application, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Form BT-1: $25 for sales tax license, if required

Time

  • Incorporation: ~15 minutes online. ~24 hours in-person. ~5-7 business days by mail.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months
  • Indiana Gaming Qualification: 120 days

Iowa

Our Resources:

Iowa Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 78-005a: Iowa Business Tax Registration
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $20
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Iowa Business Tax Registration: varies based on tax accounts/licenses

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1-2 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Kansas

Our Resources:

Kansas Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CN: Not-For-Profit Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form CR-16: Kansas Business Tax Application
  • Kansas Sales Tax Exemption Certificate
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form SC: Kansas Registration Statement for Solicitations

Cost

  • Incorporation: $20 + optional $20 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Kansas business tax registration: varies based on tax accounts/licenses
  • Kansas Charitable Registration: $35

Time

  • Incorporation: Immediately online. ~4 business days by paper. ~1 business day by paper with $20 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Kentucky

Our Resources:

Kentucky Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NAI: Non-profit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 10A100: Kentucky Tax Registration Application
  • Form 51A125: Application for Purchase Exemption - Sales and Use Tax
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Kentucky Charitable Registration

Cost

  • Incorporation: $8
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-5 business days by mail or online. While you wait if you file in-person.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Louisiana

Our Resources:

Louisiana Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 395: Non-profit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Initial report with recorder of mortgages
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form R-16019: Application for Louisiana Revenue Account Number
  • Form R-1048: Application for Exemption from Collection of Louisiana Sales Tax at Certain Fund-Raising Activities
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Louisiana Charitable Registration, if required

Cost

  • Incorporation: $75 + optional $30-$50 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Louisiana Charitable Registration: $25 (no filing if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1 week. ~24 hours for $30 expedite fee. While-you-wait with in-person filing for $50 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Maine

Our Resources:

Maine Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form MNPCA-6: Maine Domestic Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Maine Application for Tax Registration
  • Maine Sales Tax Exempt Organization Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Maine Charitable Organization Application

Cost

  • Incorporation: $40 + optional $50-$100 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Maine Charitable Registration: $50

Time

  • Incorporation: ~14 business days. ~24 hours for $50 expedite fee. Immediately for $100 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Maryland

Our Resources:

Maryland Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Maryland Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form CRA: Maryland Combined Registration Application
  • Maryland Income Tax Exemption Application
  • Maryland Property Tax Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form COR-92: Charity Registration, or Maryland Exempt Organization Fund-Raising Notice

Cost

  • Incorporation: $100 filing fee + $20 organization & capitalization fee + $50 development center fee if applying for 501(c)(3),(4), or (6) + optional $5 return mail fee + optional $50 expedite fee. The expedite fee is required to file online, by fax, or in-person.
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Maryland Charitable Registration: $0 - $300

Time

  • Incorporation: ~10+ weeks. ~7 business days with expedite fee online or by fax. Same-day if filed in-person with expedite fee by 4:15pm.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Massachusetts

Our Resources:

Massachusetts Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Massachusetts Articles of Organization
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Massachusetts Form TA-1: Application for Registration (WebFile)
  • Massachusetts Corporate Excise Tax Exemption Application
  • Massachusetts Property Tax Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Massachusetts Form PC or Short Form PC: Charitable Registration

Cost

  • Incorporation: $35
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Massachusetts Charitable Registration: usually $150

Time

  • Incorporation: ~2-3 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months
  • Massachusetts Charitable Registration: 6-8 weeks

Michigan

Our Resources:

Michigan Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CSCL/CD-502: Articles of Incorporation for use by Domestic Nonprofit Corporations or Form CSCL/CD-503: Articles of Incorporation for use by Ecclesiastical Corporations
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 518: Registration for Business Taxes
  • Form 3372: Michigan Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Michigan Initial Solicitation Registration Form

Cost

  • Incorporation: $20 + optional $50-1,000 expedite service
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~5-7 business days with returned documents in ~4 weeks. ~24 hours for $50. Same day for $100. 2 hours for $500. 1 hour for $1,000.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Minnesota

Our Resources:

Minnesota Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Minnesota Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form ABR: Minnesota Revenue Application for Business Registration
  • Form ST16: Minnesota Revenue Application for Sales and Use Tax Exempt Status
  • Minnesota Charitable Organization Initial Registration & Annual Report Form, if required

Cost

  • Incorporation: $70 by mail. $90 online or expedited in-person.
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Minnesota charitable registration: $25

Time

  • Incorporation: ~5-7 business days by mail. ~24hrs online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Mississippi

Our Resources:

Mississippi Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form F0001: Mississippi Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Mississippi Taxpayer Access Point (TAP) Registration
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Mississippi Charitable Organization Registration or Mississippi Charitable Notice of Exemption

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Mississippi Charitable Registration or Exemption: $50

Time

  • Incorporation: ~2-3 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Missouri

Our Resources:

Missouri Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form Corp-52: Articles of Incorporation of a Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Missouri Online Business Registration or Form 2643: Missouri Tax Registration Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Missouri Charitable Organization - Initial Registration Statement

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Missouri Charitable Registration: $15

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1-7 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Montana

Our Resources:

Montana Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 54: Articles of Incorporation for Domestic Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Montana Tax Registration, if applicable
  • Montana Tax-Exempt Status Request Form
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $20
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~10 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Nebraska

Our Resources:

Nebraska Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Nebraska Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 20: Nebraska Tax Application, if required
  • Form 4: Nebraska Exemption Application for Sales and Use Tax
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $10 + $5/page
  • Nebraska tax application: usually $0
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1-2 business days online
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Nevada

Our Resources:

Nevada Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Certificate of Acceptance of Appointment by Registered Agent
  • Initial/Annual List of Officers and Directors
  • Nevada State Business License Application (or Exemption)
  • Nevada Charitable Solicitation Registration, if required
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form APP-01.00: Nevada Common Business Registration
  • Form APP-02.01: Application for Sales/Use Tax Exemption for Charitable/Religious/Educational Organizations
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Nevada Nonprofit Corporation Registration Information (Campaigns), if required

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50 + optional $125-$1,000 expedite fee
  • Initial list: $50
  • Nevada business license: $200 ($0 if exempt)
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: Immediately online
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

New Hampshire

Our Resources:

New Hampshire Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NP-1: Articles of Agreement of a New Hampshire Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form NHCT-1: Application for Registration

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • New Hampshire charitable registration: $25

Time

  • Incorporation: ~10-14 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

New Jersey

Our Resources:

New Jersey Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Public Records Filing for New Business Entity
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form NJ-REG: Business Registration Form
  • Form REG-1E: Sales Tax Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • New Jersey Charitable Registration (Form CRI-200 or Form CRI-300R, depending on gross contributions)

Cost

  • Incorporation: $75
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • New Jersey charitable registration: $30 - $250

Time

  • Incorporation: ~4 weeks. Expedited processing available for a fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

New Mexico

Our Resources:

New Mexico Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form DNP: Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Domestic Nonprofit Corporation Initial Report
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form ACD-31015: Application for Business Tax Identification Number
  • Form ACD-31050: Application for Nontaxable Transaction Certificates
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • NM-COROS Charitable Registration

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25 + optional $100-150 expedite fee
  • Initial Report: $10
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • New Mexico charitable registration: $0

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3 months. ~2 business days for $100 expedite fee. ~1 business day for $150 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

New York

Our Resources:

New York Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • New York Agency Approval of Purpose, if required
  • Form DOS1511-f-l: New York Not-for-Profit Certificate of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • NYS Tax Registration, if required
  • NYC Tax Registration, if required
  • Form CT-247: Application for Exemption from Corporation Franchise Taxes by a Not-for-Profit Organization
  • Form ST-119.2: Application for an Exempt Organization Certificate
  • NYS Property tax exemption form(s)
  • NYC Property tax exemption, if required
  • Form CHAR 410: Registration Statement for Charitable Organizations

Cost

  • Incorporation: $75 + optional $25-150 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • NYS charitable registration: $25 to solicit contributions ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~14 business days. Within 24 hours for $25 expedite fee. On the same day for $75 expedite fee. Within 2 hours of receipt for $150 expedite fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

North Carolina

Our Resources:

North Carolina Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form N-01: Articles of Incorporation for Nonprofit
  • Form N-14: Tax Exempt Status Information
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form NC-BR: Business Registration Application for Income Tax Withholding, Sales and Use Tax, and Machinery and Equipment Tax, if applicable
  • Form CD-345: Corporate Franchise and Income Tax Questionnaire for Nonprofits
  • NC Solicitation License Application - Charitable or Sponsor Organization, if required

Cost

  • Incorporation: $60 + optional $100-200 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • North Carolina charitable registration: $0-$200 depending on gross contributions ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~5-7 business days. 24 hours for $100 expedite fee. Same day for $200 expedite fee (submit by noon).
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

North Dakota

Our Resources:

North Dakota Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form SFN-13003: North Dakota Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Apply for EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: Application for 501(c)(3) Exemption
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form ACD-31015: Application for Business Tax Identification Number
  • Form ACD-31050: Application for Nontaxable Transaction Certificates
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form SFN-11300: Charitable Organization Registration Statement

Cost

  • Incorporation: $40
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • North Dakota charitable registration: $25

Time

  • Incorporation: ~30 days. No expedite options available.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Ohio

Our Resources:

Ohio Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 532B: Initial Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Ohio Business Gateway Tax Registration
  • Form STEC-B: Sales and Use Tax Blanket Exemption Certificate
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Ohio Charitable Organization Registration (online)

Cost

  • Incorporation: $99
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Ohio Charitable Registration: $50 - $200

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-7 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Oklahoma

Our Resources:

Oklahoma Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form SOS 0009-07/12: Certificate of Incorporation (Oklahoma Not for Profit Corporation)
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form 40001: Oklahoma Business Registration Application
  • Form 13-16-A: Application for Sales Tax Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form SOS 101A-01/13: Registration Statement of Charitable Organization

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Oklahoma Business Registration: fees for needed licenses
  • Oklahoma Charitable Registration: $15 - $65

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1 business day online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Oregon

Our Resources:

Oregon Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 30: Articles of Incorporation - Nonprofit
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form RF-C: Registration for Charitable Organizations

Cost

  • Incorporation: $50
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1-2 business days by fax. Instantly online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Pennsylvania

Our Resources:

Pennsylvania Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form DSCB:15-5306/7102B-2: Articles of Incorporation - Nonprofit
  • Pennsylvania docketing statement
  • Pennsylvania incorporation publishing
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form PA-100: Enterprise Registration Form
  • Form REV-72: Sales Tax Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form BCO-10: Charitable Organization Registration Statement, if not exempt

Cost

  • Incorporation: $125
  • Incorporation publishing: ~$200
  • EIN: $0
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • PA-100: $0 + fees for needed licenses
  • Pennsylvania Charitable Registration: usually $0 due to exemption

Time

  • Incorporation: ~14 business days
  • EIN: Immediately online
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months
  • PA-100: varies based on needed tax accounts/licenses

Rhode Island

Our Resources:

Rhode Island Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 200: Non-Profit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form BAR: Business Application and Registration, if required
  • Application for Certificate of Exemption for an Exempt Organization from the Rhode Island Sales and Use Tax
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Charitable Trust Registration Statement, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $35
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Rhode Island Form BAR: varies based on taxes/licenses/permits required
  • Rhode Island sales tax exemption: $25
  • Rhode Island charitable trust registration: $50, if applicable

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7 business days by mail or online. Same day for in-person filings.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

South Carolina

Our Resources:

South Carolina Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NP: Non-Profit Corporation Domestic Articles of Incorporation
  • Articles of Incorporation 501(c)(3) Attachment
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form SCDOR-111: South Carolina Department of Revenue Tax Registration Application
  • Form ST-387: Application for Sales Tax Exemption for Exempt Organizations
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • South Carolina Registration Statement for a Charitable Organization or Application for Registration Exemption

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • South Carolina Form SCDOR-111: varies based on taxes/licenses/permits required
  • South Carolina charitable registration: $50 (or $0 if filing exemption)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7-10 business days by mail. ~1-2 business days online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

South Dakota

Our Resources:

South Dakota Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Articles of Incorporation Domestic Non-Profit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • South Dakota Tax License Application (online), if required
  • Form SD EForm-1932-V10: South Dakota Streamlined Sales Tax Agreement Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30 + optional $50 expedite fee
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • South Dakota Tax License Application: varies based on taxes/licenses/permits required

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-5 business days. Expedited service is available for a $50 fee and is defined as completion sooner than the normal course of business upon request.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Tennessee

Our Resources:

Tennessee Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form SS-4418: Charter Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form RV-F1300501: Tennessee Department of Revenue Application for Registration
  • Form RV-F1306901: Application for Registration - Sales and Use Tax Exempt Entities
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Charitable Registration: Form SS-6001: Application for Registration of a Charitable Organization and Form SS-6002: Summary of Financial Activities of a Charitable Organization OR Form SS-6042: Exemption Request

Cost

  • Incorporation: $100
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Tennessee charitable registration: $50 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~4 business days by mail. ~2 days online. Immediately in-person.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Texas

Our Resources:

Texas Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 202: Certificate of Formation - Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Texas Tax Forms, if required
  • Texas Application for Exemption - Charitable Organizations (or similar form)
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-5 business days by mail or fax.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Utah

Our Resources:

Utah Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form SS-4418: Charter Nonprofit Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form TC-69: Utah State Business and Tax Registration
  • Utah Business License Registration
  • Form TC-160: Application for Sales Tax Exemption Number for Religious or Charitable Institutions
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Utah Charitable Organization Permit Application Form or Request for Exemption pursuant to Charitable Solicitations Act

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Utah charitable registration: $100 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~14 business days by mail or fax. ~1 business day online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Vermont

Our Resources:

Vermont Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Articles of Incorporation Form - Nonprofits and Cooperatives
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form S-1: Vermont Application for Business Tax Account
  • Form S-3: Vermont Sales Tax Exemption Certificate for Resale and Exempt Organizations
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $125
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~5-7 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Virginia

Our Resources:

Virginia Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form SCC819: Articles of Incorporation of a Virginia Nonstock Corporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form R-1: Virginia Department of Taxation Business Registration Form
  • Form NPO: Retail Sales and Use Tax Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form 102: Charitable Organization Registration or Form 100: Virginia Exemption Application for a Charitable or Civic Organization

Cost

  • Incorporation: $75
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Virginia charitable registration: $100 + $30-$325 depending on contributions ($10 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~7 business days by mail. ~3-7 business day online. Expedited options available for a fee.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Washington

Our Resources:

Washington Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Washington Nonprofit Corporation - Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form BLS-700-028: Washington Business License Application, if applicable
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Washington Charitable Organization Registration

Cost

  • Incorporation: $30 by mail. $80 expedited by mail. $50 online.
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Washington Business License Application: $19, if applicable
  • Washington Charitable Organization Registration: $60 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~2 months by mail. ~2-3 business days expedited by mail or online.
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

West Virginia

Our Resources:

West Virginia Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form CD-1NP: West Virginia Articles of Incorporation with Non-Profit IRS Attachment
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form WV/BUS-APP: West Virginia Office of Business Registration
  • Form F0003: Certificate of Exemption
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form CHR-1: West Virginia Registration Statement of Charitable Organizations, if not exempt

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • West Virginia charitable registration: $15-50 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~1-2 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Wisconsin

Our Resources:

Wisconsin Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form 102: Articles of Incorporation - Nonstock Corporations
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Form BTR-101: Application for Business Tax Registration
  • Form S-103: Application for Wisconsin Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exempt Status (CES)
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable
  • Form 296: Charitable Organization Registration Statement

Cost

  • Incorporation: $35
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee
  • Wisconsin business tax registration: $20
  • Wisconsin charitable registration: $15 ($0 if exempt)

Time

  • Incorporation: ~4-7 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months

Wyoming

Our Resources:

Wyoming Startup Guide

Paperwork

  • Form NP-ArticlesIncorporation: Nonprofit Corporation Articles of Incorporation
  • Bylaws
  • IRS Form SS-4: Obtain an EIN
  • IRS Form 1023: 501(c) Tax Exempt Application
  • IRS Determination Letter
  • Wyoming SSUTA Certificate of Exemption Application
  • URS Charitable Registration, if applicable

Cost

  • Incorporation: $25
  • 501(c): $275 or $600 IRS fee

Time

  • Incorporation: ~3-5 business days
  • 501(c): 2 weeks to 3 months
Continue reading “Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation”
Revised November 08, 2017. Complete data last reviewed November 08, 2017.
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