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Serve the public good as a nonprofit
Starting off right is the first step in getting donor support.
Many people finish in 15 minutes
Reasons to incorporate as a nonprofit
You're eligible for state, federal and certain other income tax exemptions.
Contributions to certain types of nonprofits are tax deductible.
Members and directors are shielded from personal liability for the nonprofit's actions.
What is a 501c3 organization?
The term 501(c)(3) refers to a specific IRS tax code. To qualify, the nonprofit must meet IRS requirements. If your organization qualifies, we'll help complete and file your application.
Learn more about nonprofits
Eligibility for grants and donations
Only qualified nonprofits can receive grants from other nonprofits and government agencies. Also, contributions to qualified nonprofits are deductible on the donor's income tax returns.
Ways to raise money for your nonprofitGet Started
Economy
$99+ state fee
Preliminary name clearance
More details
We'll check your state's database to make sure your name is available.
Articles of incorporation filingWe’ll create your corporate formation documents and file them with your state.
Peace of Mind Review™A document specialist makes sure your work is consistent and complete.
20 membership certificatesCustom-printed with your organization's name and state information.
FREE nonprofit how-to book from NoloHow to Form a Nonprofit Corporation is a useful guide to help you get underway.
Standard
$239+ state fee
Everything from Economy plus:
Deluxe nonprofit kit
Includes customized membership certificates, binder and official seal.
Corporate minutes formsMaintain official records of your formal meetings and actions taken.
Best Value
Express Gold
$359+ state fee
Everything from Standard plus:
Rush processing
Have your nonprofit set up in 7–10 business days or less.
Expedited federal tax ID (EIN)We'll do the work to get your required tax identification number.
2-day delivery of your final packageWe'll ship your final package to you for arrival on the second business day.
30-day trial of attorney advice*Speak with an independent attorney on an unlimited number of new legal matters.
See what's included
Included features:
Preliminary name clearance
We'll check your state's database to make sure your name is available.
Articles of incorporation filing
We’ll create your corporate formation documents and file them with your state.
A document specialist makes sure your work is consistent and complete.
20 membership certificates
Custom-printed with your organization's name and state information.
FREE nonprofit how-to book from Nolo
How to Form a Nonprofit Corporation is a useful guide to help you get underway.
Deluxe nonprofit kit
Includes customized membership certificates, binder and official seal.
Corporate minutes forms
Maintain official records of your formal meetings and actions taken.
Rush processing
Have your nonprofit set up in 7–10 business days or less.
Expedited federal tax ID (EIN)
We'll do the work to get your required tax identification number.
2-day delivery of your final package
We'll ship your final package to you for arrival on the second business day.
30-day trial of attorney advice*
Speak with an independent attorney on an unlimited number of new legal matters.
Economy
$99 + state fee
Standard
$239 + state fee
Express Gold
$359 + state fee
Common questions
Who qualifies for 501c3 status?
In order to qualify for tax-exempt status, the organization must operate for charitable, educational, religious or scientific purposes, among others.
What's the difference between a public charity and private foundation?
They're both 501(c)(3) organizations, but the difference is their source of funding. Public charities generally get their funding from the general public. Private foundations are usually supported by a few individuals, a family or corporation.
What nonprofits don't qualify for 501c3 status?
Civic leagues, homeowner's associations and groups endorsing a political candidate are common types of nonprofits that don't qualify for 501(c)(3) status.
How do I obtain 501c3 status?
After filing your nonprofit's articles of incorporation with the state, you'll need to file an application with the IRS. If it's approved, your nonprofit will be a qualified 501(c)(3)organization.
Is the formality of incorporation necessary?
Incorporating your nonprofit provides liability protection for the directors and officers of the organization. If your group is concerned about credibility, having an official nonprofit corporate structure can improve your organization's status in the eyes of potential donors and the public.
Didn't find the answer you need?
Speak with an attorney
No fees, no hourly ratesGet legal advice from an independent attorney at a price you can afford.
Find out moreCreate your nonprofit starting at $99+fees
Filing is fast and easy – get started today.
Learn more about nonprofits*Telephone consultations with a participating firm, during normal business hours, of up to one half (1/2) hour each, limited to one consultation for each new legal matter. After the 30-day trial period, benefits to the Business Legal Plan (also Business Advantage Pro or Business Advisory Plan) continue automatically at the plan rate (currently $39.99 per month). Cancel online or by calling (877) 818-8787. For full details, see the Legal Plan Contract and Subscription Terms.
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