CHECKLIST: Steps to Forming a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Organization
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19 Key Steps to Forming a New Nonprofit
Benjamin Takis (Attorney) authored this 4-page guide sheet to provide a brief overview of the basic initial steps required to form a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
This guide sheet outlines key steps that apply to most new organizations in order to form a nonprofit corporation, apply for 501(c)(3) status, and stay in compliance with the rules governing tax-exempt organizations. The topics covered include:
Deciding where the organization will be located and incorporated;
Drafting governing documents including Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and basic corporate policies;
Holding the first Board meeting;
Obtaining a tax ID number (also known as an “employer identification number” or “EIN”);
Establishing the organization’s fiscal year;
Submitting the Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ application for 501(c)(3) status;
Complying with ongoing federal, state, and local filing and registration requirements, such as the Form 990, corporation registrations, charitable solicitation registrations, and more.
