{"id":5347,"date":"2024-12-20T10:37:44","date_gmt":"2024-12-20T15:37:44","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-colorado.html"},"modified":"2025-05-29T13:05:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T18:05:00","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-colorado","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-colorado.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Start a Nonprofit in Colorado"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<section data-testid=\"fl-simple-hero\"  class=\"fl-simple-hero\">\n    <div class=\"fl-simple-hero-container fl-container fl-flex fl-items-center\">\n                    <img decoding=\"async\" class=\"fl-simple-hero-image\" src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1746118870\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/voting-states-maps-Colorado\/voting-states-maps-Colorado.png?_i=AA\" alt=\"\" data-testid=\"fl-simple-hero-image\">\n                <div class=\"fl-simple-hero-title\" data-testid=\"fl-simple-hero-title\">How To Start a Nonprofit in Colorado<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/section>\n    <div class=\"fl-container\">\n        <div class=\"updated-breadcrumb-list\">\n            <ol>\n                        <li>\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\">FindLaw <\/a>\n                <span class=\"breadcrumb-separator\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\/<\/span>\n            <\/li>\n                                <li aria-current=\"page\">How To Start a Nonprofit in Colorado<\/li>\n            <\/ol>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30  wp-container-core-columns-is-layout-9d6595d7 fl-sectionWithSidebar fl-container fl-flex fl-flex-wrap fl-gap30\">\n<div class=\"fl-section-main fl-page-articles fl-section-main fl-section-main-full-width\"><h1 class=\"fl-no-margin-top\">How To Start a Nonprofit in Colorado<\/h1>\n\n<section class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline\">\n    <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-content\">\n                    By <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/natalie-moritz\/\">Natalie Moritz<\/a> | Legally reviewed by <a\n                href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/amber-sheppard-esq\/\">Amber Sheppard, Esq.<\/a>\n                | Last updated\n        <time>\n                            May 29, 2025\n                    <\/time>\n    <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-editorial-note fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>Editorial Note: We earn a commission from affiliate partner links on FindLaw. Commissions do not affect the editorial integrity of our legal content.<\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    \n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-legally-reviewed\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Legally Reviewed\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>This article has been written and reviewed for legal accuracy, clarity, and style by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team.html\">FindLaw\u2019s team of legal writers and attorneys<\/a> and in accordance with <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/company-history\/editorial-policy.html\">our editorial standards<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n\n    <details class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle fl-gutenberg-byline-fast-checked\">\n        <summary>\n            <i class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-icon\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            Fact-Checked\n        <\/summary>\n\n        <div class=\"fl-gutenberg-byline-toggle-content\">\n            <p><em>The last updated date refers to the last time this article was reviewed by FindLaw or one of our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/company\/our-team\/contributing-authors.html\">contributing authors<\/a>. We make every effort to keep our articles updated. For information regarding a specific legal issue affecting you, please <a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/?fli=bylinelink\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">contact an attorney in your area<\/a>.<\/em><\/p>\n\n        <\/div>\n    <\/details>\n<\/section>\n\n\n    <div class=\"fl-callout-text article-blockquote\">\n        <p>There are many legal steps to starting a nonprofit organization in Colorado, including choosing a name, appointing a board of directors, filing incorporation paperwork, and applying for federal and state tax-exempt status.<\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><b><i>Form your nonprofit with confidence.\u202f<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-co-in-content\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Callout\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $99 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"tableOfContent\">\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents\">\n        <span role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" class=\"table-of-contents__title\">Twelve Steps To Create a Colorado Nonprofit<\/span>\n                <ul class=\"table-of-contents__list\">\n                        <li><a href=\"#One\" title=\"1. Choose the Name for Your Organization\">1. Choose the Name for Your Organization<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Two\" title=\"2. State the Purpose of Your Nonprofit\">2. State the Purpose of Your Nonprofit<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Three\" title=\"3. Appoint a Registered Agent\">3. Appoint a Registered Agent<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Four\" title=\"4. Draft the Nonprofit Bylaws\">4. Draft the Nonprofit Bylaws<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Five\" title=\"5. File Articles of Incorporation\">5. File Articles of Incorporation<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Six\" title=\"6. Have Your First Board of Directors Meeting\">6. Have Your First Board of Directors Meeting<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Seven\" title=\"7. Get Business Licenses\">7. Get Business Licenses<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eight\" title=\"8. Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)\">8. Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Nine\" title=\"9. Apply for 501(c)(3) Status\">9. Apply for 501(c)(3) Status<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Ten\" title=\"10. Apply for Colorado State Tax Exemptions\">10. Apply for Colorado State Tax Exemptions<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eleven\" title=\"11. File Periodic Reports\">11. File Periodic Reports<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Twelve\" title=\"12. Charitable Registrations\">12. Charitable Registrations<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Many steps for&nbsp;starting a nonprofit&nbsp;are uniform across states. But <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-colorado&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">starting a nonprofit in Colorado<\/a> involves some state-specific guidelines, forms, and procedures.<\/p>\n<p>Starting a&nbsp;nonprofit&nbsp;may be a good idea if you have a passion for goodwill. But a nonprofit is still a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/first-steps.html\">small business<\/a>, requiring thorough business planning and preparation to start and sustain.<\/p>\n<p>Continue reading for a step-by-step guide on launching a successful Colorado&nbsp;nonprofit&nbsp;corporation.<\/p>\n<p>You can also use FindLaw&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-organizations.html\">Nonprofit Organizations<\/a>&nbsp;section for more information on starting and running a&nbsp;nonprofit.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta fl-flex fl-items-center\">\n    <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-icons fl-flex fl-flex-column\">\n        <img decoding=\"async\"\n            src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745900043\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_129163c1e\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_129163c1e.png?_i=AA\"\n            alt=\"\"\n            loading=\"lazy\"\n            class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-icon-main\"\n        \/>\n        <img decoding=\"async\"\n            src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745857465\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_text_1294fc38a\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_text_1294fc38a.png?_i=AA\"\n            alt=\"\"\n            loading=\"lazy\"\n            class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-icon-bottom\"\n        \/>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-text\">\n        <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-subtitle\"><p>Meet FindLaw&#8217;s <b>trusted partner LegalZoom<\/b>, an industry leader in online business formations<\/p>\n<\/div>\n        <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-content fl-flex fl-items-center\">\n            <div>\n                <h2 class=\"fl-title-H2 fl-legal-zoom-cta-title\">Let&#8217;s start your nonprofit!<\/h2>\n                <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-cta-description\"><p>Join the millions who launched their businesses with LegalZoom. <b>Nonprofit registration starts at $99 + filing fees.<\/b><\/p>\n<\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <a class=\"fl-button fl-link-button primary fl-legal-zoom-cta-button diy-biz-affiliate\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - StateLaws Banner\" aria-disabled=\"false\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-co-mcta\" target=\"_blank\">\n                <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Get Started<\/span>\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2>Twelve Steps To Create a Colorado Nonprofit<\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"general-step-component\">\n    <div class=\"steps-container\">\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            1\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"One\">Choose the Name for Your Organization<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You will need to choose a name for your nonprofit. Colorado requires that every business operating in the state have a unique name. You can ensure your name is available by conducting a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/biz\/NameCriteria.do\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">business search on the Colorado Secretary of State website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>You can reserve your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/choosing-your-business-name.html\">business name<\/a>\u00a0if you&#8217;re not ready to file your articles of incorporation and legally begin the organization. To reserve a business name, you must file a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/pubs\/business\/helpFiles\/RS_HELP.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Statement of Reservation of Name<\/a>\u00a0with the Colorado Secretary of State. The filing fee is $25.<\/p>\n<p>After filing the Statement of Reservation of Name, your potential name will be reserved for 120 days. Your name won&#8217;t be officially yours until you file your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            2\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Two\">State the Purpose of Your Nonprofit<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0will only be eligible for federal tax exemptions (501(c)(3) status) if you state your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-mission-statement-for-a-nonprofit.html\">nonprofit&#8217;s purpose<\/a>\u00a0in the articles of incorporation. The IRS only grants 501(c)(3) status to organizations falling into one of the following categories:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Charitable<\/li>\n<li>Religious<\/li>\n<li>Educational<\/li>\n<li>Scientific<\/li>\n<li>Literary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If you&#8217;re unsure, reach out to a nonprofit attorney to help walk you through the process.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            3\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Three\">Appoint a Registered Agent<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every nonprofit organization must have a registered agent. A\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-registered-agent-.html\">registered agent<\/a>\u00a0is a person or a service responsible for accepting legal documents on behalf of an organization. Your registered agent must be at least 18 years old and have a physical street address in Colorado.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            4\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Four\">Draft the Nonprofit Bylaws<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>The nonprofit&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/bylaws.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">bylaws<\/a>\u00a0are a set of rules that are in place to regulate the organization. Colorado law requires that every nonprofit have bylaws.<\/p>\n<p>Your bylaws and your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-and-filing-the-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>\u00a0should be consistent with each other. They should also address the roles of each director or officer.<\/p>\n<p>You should also draft and adopt your nonprofit&#8217;s conflict of interest policy. A conflict of interest policy is a plan about how your organization will act if one or more directors&#8217; interests conflict with the nonprofit&#8217;s purpose.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            5\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Five\">File Articles of Incorporation<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>In addition to your bylaws, Colorado requires that\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/pubs\/business\/helpFiles\/ARTINC_CS_HELP.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">every nonprofit organization file articles of incorporation<\/a>\u00a0with the Colorado Secretary of State. Filing the articles of incorporation legally starts your business.<\/p>\n<p>Your nonprofit will have to name at least one incorporator. An incorporator is a person responsible for signing and filing the articles of incorporation with the secretary of state.\u00a0Incorporators\u00a0don&#8217;t have to be members of the nonprofit. The filing fee is $50.<\/p>\n<p>Your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>\u00a0must include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Name and address of the nonprofit organization<\/li>\n<li>Name and address of the registered agent or the name and address of the registered agent service<\/li>\n<li>Statement affirming the registered agent has agreed to serve as the nonprofit&#8217;s agent for service of process<\/li>\n<li>Name and address of each incorporator<\/li>\n<li>Comment about whether the corporation will have voting members<\/li>\n<li>Statement of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-mission-statement-for-a-nonprofit.html\">purpose of the nonprofit<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Date when the articles of incorporation will become effective if they become effective after filing<\/li>\n<li>Statement showing the nonprofit agrees that it won&#8217;t operate in a way contrary to its stated purpose<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            6\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Six\">Have Your First Board of Directors Meeting<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your nonprofit organization must have an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporate-structure-directors-to-shareholders.html\">initial organizational meeting<\/a>\u00a0of the board of directors. Your board of directors will include specific officers like:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>President<\/li>\n<li>Vice president<\/li>\n<li>Treasurer<\/li>\n<li>Secretary<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You must have at least three board members who aren&#8217;t related to each other. You will want to create a record for the nonprofit by taking minutes for the initial meeting.<\/p>\n<p>Your first board meeting must accomplish certain administrative objectives, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Adopting a conflict of interest policy<\/li>\n<li>Approving the nonprofit&#8217;s bylaws<\/li>\n<li>Electing the board of directors<\/li>\n<li>Appointing the nonprofit&#8217;s officers<\/li>\n<li>Approving resolutions (like opening a bank account)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The board of directors ensures the nonprofit&#8217;s actions always align with the purpose stated in the articles of incorporation. The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/liability-and-insurance\/why-purchase-directors-and-officers-insurance.html\">board of directors has legal responsibilities<\/a>, including the duties of care, loyalty, and obedience.<\/p>\n<h3>Duty of Care<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/duty-of-care.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">duty of care<\/a>\u00a0refers to the board of directors&#8217; responsibility to act in their own best interests. Because of the board of directors&#8217; legal obligation to the nonprofit, the board of directors must work with the utmost care when making decisions for the nonprofit.<\/p>\n<h3>Duty of Loyalty<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/duty-of-loyalty.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">duty of loyalty<\/a>\u00a0includes each director&#8217;s responsibility to not act in their self-interest if acting in that way will harm the nonprofit.<\/p>\n<h3>Duty of Obedience<\/h3>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-laws-and-regulations\/breach-of-fiduciary-duty.html\">duty of obedience<\/a>\u00a0refers to the board of directors&#8217; responsibility to ensure the organization follows federal and\u00a0state law\u00a0and focuses on its purpose.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            7\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Seven\">Get Business Licenses<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Colorado may require that your nonprofit have additional\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/licenses-and-permits-overview.html\">business licenses<\/a>. The need for a business license depends on your nonprofit&#8217;s work.<\/p>\n<p>You may also need a permit for the property you use. Local municipalities manage\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/commercial-leases-and-zoning.html\">commercial zoning<\/a>\u00a0permits, so you will need to apply through the appropriate city or county.<\/p>\n<p>You can also contact your city hall or county clerk to see what special licenses or permits you may need for your nonprofit.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            8\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Eight\">Get an Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>A business in the United States must have an EIN assigned by the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Internal Revenue Service<\/a>\u00a0(IRS). This number is for identification and tax purposes.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/how-to-apply-for-an-ein\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Applying for an EIN<\/a>\u00a0is easy and free. The most convenient option is to apply online on the IRS website. Be sure to use the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">official IRS website<\/a> to file for an EIN.<\/p>\n<p>Use <a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/fss4.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form SS-4<\/a> if you choose to file by mail.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            9\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Nine\">Apply for 501(c)(3) Status<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>The IRS grants nonprofit organizations and donors 501(c)(3)\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">federal tax-exempt status<\/a>. You can apply for 501(c)(3) status on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/application-for-recognition-of-exemption\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRS website<\/a>. You will typically use the IRS\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023-EZ<\/a>\u00a0application series unless you&#8217;re filing three years after you form or expect more than $50,000 your first year.<\/p>\n<p>Eligible types of organizations include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Religious<\/li>\n<li>Educational<\/li>\n<li>Scientific<\/li>\n<li>Literary<\/li>\n<li>Testing for public safety<\/li>\n<li>Fostering national or international amateur sports competition<\/li>\n<li>Preventing cruelty to children or animals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/exempt-organizations-form-1023-ez-approvals\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Approved nonprofit organizations<\/a>\u00a0receive 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            10\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Ten\">Apply for Colorado State Tax Exemptions<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your nonprofit will be automatically exempt from\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/state-and-local-taxes-introduction.html\">state income tax<\/a>\u00a0once you apply and are approved for 501(c)(3) federal tax-exempt status. The IRS will notify you with a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/eo-operational-requirements-obtaining-copies-of-exemption-determination-letter-from-irs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">determination letter<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>But your nonprofit must still send a state tax registration application to receive state sales tax exemption. You can apply online on the Colorado Department of Revenue website.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/co\/title-39-taxation\/co-rev-st-sect-39-26-718\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Colorado Revised Statutes 39-26-718<\/a>\u00a0governs what charitable organizations are eligible for sales tax exemption.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            11\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Eleven\">File Periodic Reports<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every nonprofit operating in Colorado must file a periodic report every year. You will update your nonprofit&#8217;s status in this periodic report, also called an\u00a0annual report.<\/p>\n<p>For your organization to stay in good standing with the Secretary of State, your periodic report must state the name and address of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-become-a-registered-agent.html\">registered agent<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Your incorporators<\/li>\n<li>Your nonprofit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You must state these facts even if they haven&#8217;t changed since you filed the articles of incorporation.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            12\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Twelve\">Charitable Registrations<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every Colorado nonprofit must register with the Colorado Secretary of State before engaging in charitable solicitations. You must officially register your organization before you can do any\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/how-to-use-your-nonprofit-website-to-fundraise.html\">fundraising<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Along with registering in Colorado, you will need to register with each state where the nonprofit has an office and is\u00a0incorporated.<\/p>\n<p>Learn more about completing registration as a Colorado charitable organization <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/pubs\/charities\/instructions\/charity\/registration.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">here<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Resources for Colorado Nonprofit Business Owners<\/h2>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.co.us\/pubs\/business\/businessChecklist.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Checklist for New Businesses<\/a>\u00a0through the Colorado Secretary of State outlines the federal, state, and local requirements for starting a business in Colorado.<\/p>\n<p>Entrepreneurs can also visit a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.coloradosbdc.org\/who-we-are\/locations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Small Business Development Center<\/a>\u00a0(SBDC) for free business consultations. There are 15 office locations and 70 satellite sites throughout the state.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/district\/colorado\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Colorado district office of the U.S. Small Business Administration<\/a>\u00a0(located in Denver) serves all 64 counties in Colorado. Startup owners can find information on funding programs and other small business resources.<\/p>\n<h2>Need More Help Forming a Colorado Nonprofit?<\/h2>\n<p>Nonprofit formation can be a complex process. Navigating the forms and legal requirements can be overwhelming, especially filing articles of incorporation, applying for tax exemptions, and securing the proper licenses and permits.<\/p>\n<p>Working with a Colorado\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">small business attorney<\/a>\u00a0can ease some of this burden. An experienced attorney can oversee the legal side of things, leaving you to focus on your organization&#8217;s mission.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Talk to an attorney<\/a>\u00a0in your area today.<\/p>\n<p><b><i>Or you can let <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-co-custom\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Txt\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">our\u00a0trusted partner LegalZoom<\/a>\u00a0handle your nonprofit creation starting at $99 plus filing fees.<\/i><\/b><\/p>\n<p><i><b>Disclaimer:\u00a0<\/b>The information presented here does not constitute legal advice or representation. It is general and educational in nature, may not reflect all recent legal developments, and may not apply to your unique facts and circumstances. Consider consulting with a qualified business attorney if you have legal questions.<\/i><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"was-this-helpful\">\n    <div\n            class=\"was-this-helpful__question-container\"\n            aria-labelledby=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n            role=\"group\"\n    >\n        <span\n                id=\"was-this-helpful__question\"\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__question fl-text-lg-bold\"\n        >Was this helpful?<\/span>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"Yes\"\n                value=\"yes\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">Yes<\/span>\n            <i class=\"was-this-helpful__button-icon\">\n                <svg width=\"22\" height=\"22\" viewBox=\"0 0 22 22\" fill=\"none\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\">\n                    <g id=\"thumbs-up\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3418)\">\n                        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3.76965 1.16359 3.40212 1.47599C3.0346 1.78839 2.79235 2.22309 2.72003 2.7L1.34003 11.7C1.29652 11.9866 1.31586 12.2793 1.39669 12.5577C1.47753 12.8362 1.61793 13.0937 1.80817 13.3125C1.99842 13.5313 2.23395 13.7061 2.49846 13.8248C2.76297 13.9435 3.05012 14.0033 3.34003 14H9.00003Z\"\n                              stroke=\"#666666\" stroke-width=\"2\" stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\"\/>\n                    <\/g>\n                    <defs>\n                        <clipPath id=\"clip0_604_3423\">\n                            <rect width=\"22\" height=\"22\" fill=\"white\"\/>\n                        <\/clipPath>\n                    <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n    <\/div>\n    <span class=\"was-this-helpful__taken-action fl-text-sm-bold\"><\/span>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-container\">\n        <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n            <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <form class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form\">\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--positive\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Easy to understand\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--understandable\"\n                        >Easy to understand<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Solved my problem\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--solved-problem\"\n                        >Solved my problem<\/label>\n                    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class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\" tabindex=\"0\">Why was this not helpful?<\/legend>\n                    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message\" role=\"status\">\n                        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__choose-option-message-text\"><\/p>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Missing Information\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--missing-info\"\n                        >Missing the information I need<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Too complicated\"\n                        >\n                        <label\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-label fl-text-sm was-this-helpful__radio-label\"\n                                for=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--complicated\"\n                        >Too complicated \/ too many steps<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div 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href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes.html\">\n                        Business Tax Law\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                                                <li class=\"fl-list-item fl-flex\">\n                    <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n                    <a class=\"fl-list-item-link\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/closing-a-business.html\">\n                        Closing a Business\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/li>\n                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Business 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href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/employment-law-employer\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Employment Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                            <\/ul>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<section\n    class=\"fl-next-steps\"\n    data-testid=\"fl-next-steps-legal-zoom\"\n>\n    <div class=\"fl-next-steps-content\" data-testid=\"fl-next-steps-content\">\n        <div class=\"fl-next-steps-column fl-next-steps-column-legal-zoom\" data-testid=\"fl-next-steps-column-left\">\n            <div\n                class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help fl-legal-zoom-help-with-icons\"\n                data-testid=\"fl-legal-zoom-help\"\n            >\n                <div\n                    class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-icons fl-flex fl-flex-column fl-items-center fl-justify-center\"\n                >\n                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745900043\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_129163c1e\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_129163c1e.png?_i=AA\"\n                        alt=\"\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                        class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-icon-main fl-desktop\"\n                    \/>\n                    <img decoding=\"async\"\n                        src=\"https://www.findlaw.com/static/c/images\/images\/w_1200,c_limit,dpr_auto\/f_auto,q_auto:eco\/v1745857465\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_text_1294fc38a\/general-components-legal-zoom-legal_zoom_text_1294fc38a.png?_i=AA\"\n                        alt=\"\"\n                        loading=\"lazy\"\n                        class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-icon-bottom\"\n                    \/>\n                <\/div>\n                <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-text\">\n                    <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-subtitle\">\n                        <p>Meet FindLaw&#8217;s\u00a0<b>trusted partner LegalZoom<\/b>, an industry leader in online business formations<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                    <h2 class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-title fl-callout-md\">\n                        Need Help Forming a Nonprofit?\n                    <\/h2>\n                    <div class=\"fl-legal-zoom-help-description fl-text-lg-medium\">\n                        <p>FindLaw&#8217;s trusted partner, LegalZoom, provides a straightforward process to help you set up your nonprofit. Join the millions who launched their organizations with\u00a0LegalZoom<b style=\"background-color: transparent;\">. Nonprofit plans start at $99 + state fees.<\/b><\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                    <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-co-footer\" class=\"fl-button fl-link-button primary fl-legal-zoom-help-button diy-biz-affiliate\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - StateLaws Ft Banner\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" aria-disabled=\"false\" target=\"_blank\">\n                        <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Start My Nonprofit<\/span>\n                        <i\n                            class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                            aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                        ><\/i>\n                    <\/a>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"fl-next-steps-column\">\n            <div\n                class=\"fl-help-links\"\n                data-testid=\"fl-help-links\"\n            >\n                <h2 class=\"fl-help-links-title fl-callout-sm\">\n                    Related Resources\n                <\/h2>\n                <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin fl-text-lg\">\n                                            <li class=\"fl-help-links-list-item\">\n                            <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                            ><\/i>\n                            <a title=\"Filing LLC Taxes\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/filing-llc-taxes.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\" data-testid=\"fl-list-item-link\">Filing LLC Taxes<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-help-links-list-item\">\n                            <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                            ><\/i>\n                            <a title=\"LLC Member Tax FAQs\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/llc-member-tax-faqs.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\" data-testid=\"fl-list-item-link\">LLC Member Tax FAQs<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                            <li class=\"fl-help-links-list-item\">\n                            <i\n                                    class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                                    aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                            ><\/i>\n                            <a title=\"Starting a Limited Liability Company Checklist\" href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/starting-a-limited-liability-company-llc-checklist.html\" class=\"fl-list-item-link\" data-testid=\"fl-list-item-link\">Starting a Limited Liability Company Checklist<\/a>\n                        <\/li>\n                                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/section>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Starting a Colorado nonprofit involves some state-specific regulations, laws, and forms. Find the various steps for forming a nonprofit in CO at FindLaw.com.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":5123,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleDIYConversionController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-5347","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-smallbusiness"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5347","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/41135"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=5347"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5347\/revisions"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5123"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=5347"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5347"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5347"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=5347"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=5347"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}