Community Heroes
Start a Nonprofit
Start your nonprofit with confidence
We can help by preparing all of your required documents - OR - we can help you do this for yourself!
Why start a nonprofit?
Social Good
Nonprofits embody the best of America. They exist to improve conditions in the world!
Access Grants
There are donors all around the world that reserved funds just to help nonprofits do good in their community!
Tax Exemption
501(C)(3) organizations are exempt from federal (and most often state) income taxes. They also attract more donors!
Steps to start a nonprofit?
Make sure to check the state-by-state information on the various laws that apply to naming a nonprofit in your state.
Select a diverse board of directors (people) that are passionate about the nonprofit mission and have the time and resources to commit to the organization.
Draft your bylaws with guidance from your Board of Directors. These are the operating rules for your nonprofit.
Nonprofit corporations are formed at the state level. Contact your Secretary of State (or Department of State) to form the corporation in accordance with current state laws. There are fees associated with forming a nonprofit corporation that varies from state to state.
An Employer Identification Number (EIN) is issued for the purpose of tax administration. If you believe your organization qualifies for tax exempt status (whether or not you have a requirement to apply for a formal ruling), be sure your organization is formed legally before you apply for an EIN.
According to most State Nonprofit Corporation Acts, nonprofit corporations must hold their first meeting of the Board of Directors within 30 days of the date of its incorporation. During the first meeting of the board, bylaws are adopted and board members are elected to their positions.
Nonprofit corporations that plan to solicit charitable contributions and grants usually apply for tax exemption first. Section 501(c)(3) is the portion of the US Internal Revenue Code that allows for federal tax exemption of nonprofit organizations. There are many variables associated with becoming a 501(c)(3) organization including qualifying under 1 of 8 charitable purposes including: Charitable, Religious, Educational, Scientific, Literary, Testing for public safety, Fostering national or international amateur sports competition, and Preventing cruelty to children or animals.
Let's Work Together!
No hidden charges!
- State Incorporation is typically $20-$100, depending on your state.
- IRS application fee for Form 1023-EZ is $275.
- Our fee for most states is $950, which can be made in 2 payments. (There’s a deposit of $475 to start services and $475 once the State has approved your nonprofit corporation)
- New York small nonprofits: The fee is $1200. (Deposit $600)
- California small nonprofits: The fee is $1500. (Deposit $750)
- *Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation are $360.
- State Incorporation is $20-$100, depending on your state.
- IRS application fee for Form 1023-EZ is $600.
- Our fee is $2,400, which can be made in 3 payments. (There’s a deposit of $800 to start services)
- New York large nonprofits: The fee is $2,500.
- California large nonprofits: The fee is $2,800.
- *Hospitals, Schools, Churches, add $500.
- *Amendments to the Articles of Incorporation are $360.
- We complete your Articles of Incorporation.
- We prepare your IRS application, including helping you refine your mission and activities statement.
- We help you secure an EIN for your nonprofit organization.
- We develop your Bylaws. These are governing documents for you and your board.
- We develop your Conflict of Interest Policy.
- We will help you with BOIR registration with FinCen.
- California and New York, we will help you prepare your initial report and franchise tax exemption application within your state.
- Private Consultations. You will receive private consultations to help you establish your nonprofit and understand how to remain compliant and how nonprofits are funded. If you are establishing a small nonprofit, you will have 3 private consultations with Cheryl Smith. If you are establishing a large nonprofit, you will have 4 private consultations with Cheryl Smith.
- Forms Pack. You will receive a forms packet containing 10 forms and templates to support the development of your organization.
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