{"id":5354,"date":"2025-01-06T08:45:47","date_gmt":"2025-01-06T13:45:47","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-illinois.html"},"modified":"2025-05-29T11:58:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-29T16:58:00","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-illinois","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-illinois.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Start a Nonprofit in Illinois"},"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\/v1746197041\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/voting-states-maps-Illinois_1323742c9\/voting-states-maps-Illinois_1323742c9.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 Illinois<\/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 Illinois<\/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 Illinois<\/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>Starting an Illinois nonprofit organization requires choosing a name, filing articles of incorporation, naming a board of directors, and applying for tax-exempt status among other things. Learn the steps for creating a legal nonprofit organization in Illinois.<\/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-il-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\">Ten Steps To Start an Illinois Nonprofit<\/span>\n                <ul class=\"table-of-contents__list\">\n                        <li><a href=\"#One\" title=\"1. Pick a Unique Business Name for Your Nonprofit\">1. Pick a Unique Business Name for Your Nonprofit<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Two\" title=\"2. Incorporate Your Nonprofit\">2. Incorporate Your Nonprofit<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Three\" title=\"3. Appoint a Registered Agent and Office\">3. Appoint a Registered Agent and Office<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Four\" title=\"4. Prepare and File Your Articles of Incorporation\">4. Prepare and File Your Articles of Incorporation<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Five\" title=\"5. Name Directors and Hold an Organizational Meeting\">5. Name Directors and Hold an Organizational Meeting<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Six\" title=\"6. Secure Necessary Licenses and Permits\">6. Secure Necessary Licenses and Permits<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Seven\" title=\"7. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)\">7. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eight\" title=\"8. Apply for an IRS Tax Exemption\">8. Apply for an IRS Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Nine\" title=\"9. Apply for State Sales Tax Exemption\">9. Apply for State Sales Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Ten\" title=\"10. Register With the Illinois Attorney General\">10. Register With the Illinois Attorney General<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Starting and operating an Illinois nonprofit organization can be rewarding but challenging. Just like opening a for-profit startup,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/checklist-starting-a-non-profit-corporation.html\">establishing a nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0requires extensive business planning and legal consideration.<\/p>\n<p>While there are many similarities across states in\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-illinois&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">opening a nonprofit<\/a>, there isn&#8217;t a true one-size-fits-all approach. Starting a nonprofit in Illinois requires some state-specific forms, processes, and legal requirements.<\/p>\n<p>While many consider all\u00a0nonprofits\u00a0tax-exempt organizations, not all nonprofits are exempt. The federal government and the state of Illinois\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">only grant tax-exempt status<\/a>\u00a0to eligible nonprofit organizations that qualify.<\/p>\n<p>The following steps outline how to start a tax-exempt Illinois\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0that complies with state and federal rules.<\/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-il-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>Ten Steps To Start an Illinois 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\">Pick a Unique Business Name for Your Nonprofit<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your first step should be <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/chronology-choosing-a-business-name.html\">choosing a name<\/a>\u00a0that best represents your organization. The name must be unique\u2014Illinois will not let you register your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-illinois&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0using a name already in use. Business owners can use\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilsos.gov\/departments\/business_services\/business_searches.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">this tool<\/a>\u00a0on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilsos.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois Secretary of State<\/a>\u00a0website to see if their selected name is available.<\/p>\n<p>Illinois also restricts the words you can include in the name of your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-corporation-faq.html\">nonprofit corporation<\/a>. No corporate name can include the name of any established political party like Democrats or Republicans. You would need consent from the party&#8217;s state central committee.<\/p>\n<p>The name also must end with the letters NFP (not for profit) if it contains any words that give the impression the organization was incorporated for any purpose other than a nonprofit.<\/p>\n<p>If you have selected an unclaimed name but aren&#8217;t ready to file the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-and-filing-the-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>, you may reserve the name for 90 days. You can reserve your name by filing a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilsos.gov\/publications\/pdf_publications\/nfp10410.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form NFP-104.10, Application for Reservation of Name<\/a>. Or, you can file a written request with the name and a short description of your nonprofit&#8217;s purpose with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilsos.gov\/departments\/business_services\/home.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Secretary of State Department of Business Services<\/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\">Incorporate Your Nonprofit<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Incorporation\u00a0refers to creating a legal business entity like a corporation or limited liability corporation (<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/llc-definition.html\">LLC<\/a>). It&#8217;s a separate entity from its incorporators. Incorporation protects you and those working with your nonprofit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/what-to-expect-business-liability.html\">from liability<\/a>\u00a0for its debts and obligations.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Internal Revenue Service<\/a>\u00a0(IRS) will grant a tax exemption to corporations, trusts, and unincorporated associations. But unincorporated nonprofits may have\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/benefits-and-drawbacks-of-different-types-of-business-entities.html\">unlimited personal liability<\/a>\u00a0if a party sues for damages.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/top-five-reasons-to-incorporate-a-non-profit-organization.html\">Incorporating your nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0has other advantages besides protecting your personal assets as the founder. It can also help\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-organization-with-no-money.html\">attract grants<\/a>\u00a0from private donors and access subsidized funding only available to incorporated nonprofits.<\/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 and Office<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Illinois requires every corporation to <a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-registered-agent-.html\">appoint a\u00a0registered agent<\/a> and a registered office. Your registered agent is responsible for receiving legal notices, tax documents, and other government notices on behalf of your nonprofit.<\/p>\n<p>Your registered office is the address for your nonprofit on public record with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilsos.gov\/departments\/business_services\/agent_change\/corpagentchange.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois Secretary of State<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>The registered agent must be either an Illinois resident or a corporation with an office in the state. The office address must include a street or a road address\u2014it can&#8217;t be a P.O. box number.<\/p>\n<p>Any communication to the corporation from the Secretary of State will also be sent to this address. For this reason, it&#8217;s important that your\u00a0registered agent\u00a0is available during business hours to sign for legal documents.<\/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\">Prepare and File Your Articles of Incorporation<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Articles of incorporation are the documents that create an Illinois corporation. You must file\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-and-filing-the-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>\u00a0with the Secretary of State.<\/p>\n<p>The Secretary of State provides a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/apps.ilsos.gov\/nfparticles\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">fillable form<\/a>\u00a0you can use to form a nonprofit corporation. But you can&#8217;t file articles online. The form doesn&#8217;t include some specific language the IRS needs to consider your nonprofit&#8217;s tax-exempt status. So, you must add that information.<\/p>\n<p>You must state the name and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-mission-statement-for-a-nonprofit.html\">purpose of your nonprofit<\/a>. Illinois requires this statement to list a specific purpose. It will not accept any statement that is too broad or vague. The Secretary of State also won&#8217;t accept language implying the nonprofit may have a for-profit purpose.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/il\/chapter-805-business-organizations\/il-st-sect-805-105-103-05.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois General Not-For-Profit Corporation Act<\/a>\u00a0lists 35 acceptable purposes for nonprofit formation.<\/p>\n<p>Suppose you&#8217;re planning on seeking\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">tax-exempt status from the IRS<\/a>. In that case, you should limit your organization&#8217;s purposes to one of the following (which are also acceptable for Illinois nonprofits):<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Charitable<\/li>\n<li>Educational<\/li>\n<li>Religious<\/li>\n<li>Prevention of cruelty to children or animals<\/li>\n<li>Fostering sports competition<\/li>\n<li>Testing for public safety<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The IRS also requires a statement of purpose declaring the organization will not:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Engage in activities unrelated to its exempt purpose<\/li>\n<li>Pursue prohibited political or legislative activity<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) also has some requirements for a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/closing-a-business\/terms-of-dissolution-glossary.html\">dissolution clause<\/a>. A dissolution clause outlines how an organization terminating its operations will distribute assets and settle liabilities. A nonprofit&#8217;s dissolution clause must specify the nonprofit will donate any assets to another 501(c)(3) or turn over the assets to the government upon dissolution. Members can&#8217;t keep any nonprofit&#8217;s assets.<\/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\">Name Directors and Hold an Organizational Meeting<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Illinois nonprofit corporations must have at least\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporate-structure-directors-to-shareholders.html\">three directors<\/a>. They don&#8217;t need to be state residents or corporation members. The articles of incorporation or bylaws may include restrictions or qualifications for serving as a director.<\/p>\n<p>The initial organizational meeting of your nonprofit corporation&#8217;s board of directors is a significant event. This is because\u00a0board members should vote\u00a0on two things necessary to corporate governance and nonprofit status:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Adoption of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-corporate-bylaws.html\">corporate bylaws<\/a>\u00a0that set forth the rules regarding operations<\/li>\n<li>Adoption of a conflict-of-interest policy<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The IRS usually requires nonprofits to have both to determine tax-exempt eligibility.<\/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                            6\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Six\">Secure Necessary Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>While the state of Illinois doesn&#8217;t require nonprofits to obtain a business license, you may need local&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/licenses-and-permits-overview.html\">business licenses and permits<\/a>. This depends on the type of work your nonprofit does and its location.<\/p>\n<p>Illinois does require a license if you plan to fundraise through games of chance, like pull tabs. You can find a list of permitted games and the application form on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/tax.illinois.gov\/research\/taxinformation\/charitygaming\/charitable.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois Department of Revenue website<\/a>. The charitable gambling license fee is $400 and is valid for two years. This license permits four charitable gambling events per year.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.ilga.gov\/commission\/jcar\/admincode\/086\/08600435sections.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Part 435 of the Illinois Charitable Games Act<\/a>&nbsp;outlines the specific laws and statutes for charitable gambling.<\/p>\n<p>You may also need a zoning permit if you have a brick-and-mortar location. Local municipalities handle&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/realestate\/land-use-laws\/land-use-and-zoning-basics.html\">zoning and land use regulations.<\/a>&nbsp;Check with the appropriate city or county to see what your building needs.<\/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\">Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You must get an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/getting-an-employer-identification-number-ein.html\">Employer Identification Number<\/a>\u00a0(EIN) before applying for an IRS exemption, even if you don&#8217;t plan on hiring employees. The IRS uses this federal tax identification number for tracking purposes. It tracks nonprofits applying for federal tax exemptions, too.<\/p>\n<p>Corporations also need an EIN to open a\u00a0bank account.<\/p>\n<p>Applying for an EIN is free. You can\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">apply online<\/a>\u00a0or by filing an IRS Form<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-ss-4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0Form SS-4<\/a>\u00a0application by mail or fax. If you apply online, 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>. Some commercial websites charge a fee for an EIN.<\/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\">Apply for an IRS Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>While you may have registered your nonprofit corporation with the state of Illinois, you will not be a tax-exempt organization until&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/run-a-non-profit-keeping-your-tax-exempt-status.html\">granted an exemption<\/a>&nbsp;from the IRS.<\/p>\n<p>Designation as an exempt nonprofit organization&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">under Section 501(c)(3)<\/a>&nbsp;of the Internal Revenue Code awards two significant benefits:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>An exemption from paying the federal income tax<\/li>\n<li>Donors can deduct contributions to your nonprofit from their income on their&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/tax\/federal-taxes\/individuals-and-income-tax.html\">federal income tax returns<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Your organization must file a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023 or a streamlined Form 1023-EZ<\/a>&nbsp;with the IRS to apply for exempt status. To use Form 1023-EZ, your nonprofit must meet the following conditions:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Not had gross receipts of more than $50,000 in the three prior years<\/li>\n<li>Not expect to have gross receipts of more than $50,000 in the next three years<\/li>\n<li>Have assets valued at less than $250,000<\/li>\n<li>Meet other specific qualifications<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The filing fee for Form 1023-EZ is $257, and $600 for the standard Form 1023.<\/p>\n<p>The IRS will issue a determination letter if your nonprofit qualifies as an exempt organization. The IRS will also add the name of your nonprofit to its searchable list of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/tax-exempt-organization-search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">exempt organizations<\/a>. Potential donors can use this database to verify if a charitable organization has tax-exempt status.<\/p>\n<p>Although exempt from paying federal income taxes, exempt organizations must file a Form 990 informational return. Organizations that fail to file Form 990s for three consecutive tax years will&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/exempt-organizations-annual-reporting-requirements-filing-procedures-late-filing-of-annual-returns\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">automatically lose their tax-exempt status<\/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                            9\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Nine\">Apply for Sales Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Corporations receiving federal tax exemptions are&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/do-nonprofits-pay-taxes-.html\">automatically exempt<\/a>&nbsp;from Illinois income tax. The organization also isn&#8217;t required to file any informational returns with the state. But if your nonprofit corporation doesn&#8217;t receive a federal exemption, it must file state income tax returns yearly.<\/p>\n<p>Some Illinois nonprofit corporations may also receive an exemption from paying&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/sales-and-use-tax.html\">sales tax<\/a>&nbsp;on goods purchased for the use of organizations formed exclusively for charitable, educational, or religious purposes or to benefit senior citizens.<\/p>\n<p>To receive sales tax exemption, your organization must send a request to the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/tax.illinois.gov\/research\/taxinformation\/sales\/rot.html#:~:text=Organizations%20%E2%80%94%20Qualified%20organizations%2C%20as%20determined,make%20certain%20purchases%20tax%E2%80%91free.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois Department of Revenue, Sales Tax Division<\/a>. Your request should include copies of the following:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>IRS determination letter<\/li>\n<li>Articles of incorporation<\/li>\n<li>Bylaws<\/li>\n<li>Constitution<\/li>\n<li>Any other document that may help determine your organization&#8217;s status<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>It&#8217;s a good idea to keep these documents in a folder for easy access, as many grants and financial institutions will require them.<\/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\">Register With the Illinois Attorney General<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Illinois law requires all charitable organizations or fundraisers to register with the Attorney General&#8217;s office using <a href=\"https:\/\/illinoisattorneygeneral.gov\/Page-Attachments\/Form%20CO-1_Registration%20Statement.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form CO-1<\/a>. Charitable organizations will also need to file an annual\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/illinoisattorneygeneral.gov\/Page-Attachments\/ag990-instructions.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form AG 990-IL<\/a>\u00a0that includes the following information:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>How much the organization has collected in donations<\/li>\n<li>How the organization spent the gifts it received, including spending on professional fundraisers<\/li>\n<li>How much the organization paid its three highest-paid employees<\/li>\n<li>The value of the organization&#8217;s assets and liability at the end of the fiscal year<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Both the initial registration and the annual reports are available to the public.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Resources for Illinois Nonprofit Business Owners<\/h2>\n<p>There are some helpful resources for Illinois entrepreneurs pursuing nonprofit ownership.<\/p>\n<p>Business owners can visit one of Illinois&#8217; many Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offices. On-site business professionals provide help with business, financing information, and other resources.<\/p>\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/district\/illinois\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has offices in Chicago and Springfield<\/a>. Learn how to register your business, find funding opportunities, and access other resources.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/myforefront.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Forefront<\/a>\u00a0(an affiliate of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.nonprofitimpactmatters.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">National Council of Nonprofits<\/a>) provides support and business services to nonprofits and charitable organizations across Illinois.<\/p>\n<h2>Need More Illinois Nonprofit Help?<\/h2>\n<p>Starting a nonprofit comes with much of the same business planning and legal considerations as a for-profit business. While you may be able to do it all on your own, some business owners benefit from the help of an attorney.<\/p>\n<p>An experienced\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/illinois\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Illinois business organization attorney<\/a>\u00a0can guide you through some of the most complex aspects of your nonprofit formation. Creating your business plan and writing your articles of incorporation and bylaws is not easy. A lawyer can also help apply for tax exemptions.<\/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-il-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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class=\"generalCard\">\n            <div class=\"disclaimer--newLegalZoom general-card--newLegalZoom__disclaimer fl-text-sm\">\n            <p>FindLaw will earn a commission if you purchase business formation products through these affiliate links.<\/p>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card general-card--newLegalZoom\">\n        <div class=\"general-card__header\">\n            <div class=\"general-card__header-image-container\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"general-card__header-image--newLegalZoomText\"\n                     src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/ability-law\/resources\/images\/legal-zoom\/legal_zoom_text.png\"\n                     alt=\"\">\n                <img decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"general-card__header-image--newLegalZoom\"\n                     src=\"\/wp-content\/themes\/ability-law\/resources\/images\/legal-zoom\/legal_zoom.png\"\n                     alt=\"\">\n            <\/div>\n            <span class=\"general-card__header-title fl-text\"><p>Meet FindLaw&#8217;s <b>trusted partner LegalZoom<\/b>, an industry leader in online business formations<\/p>\n<\/span>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card__body\">\n            <div class=\"text section\">\n                <div class=\"cmp-text\">\n                    <h2 class=\"general-card__h2--newLegalZoom fl-h3-landing\">Kickstart your nonprofit in minutes!<\/h2>\n                    <div>\n                        <p>LegalZoom\u2019s simplified registration process helps you get your nonprofit off to the right start.<\/p>\n<p><b>Nonprofit plans start at $99 + state fees.<\/b><\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/div>\n        <div class=\"general-card__footer\">\n            <a class=\"general-card__footer-link fl-text-lg diy-biz-affiliate\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL ESum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-il-es\">\n                <p class=\"general-card__footer-link-text fl-no-margin fl-text-lg-medium\">Get started<\/p>\n                <i class=\"general-card__footer-link-icon fa fa-angle-right\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"general-card--newLegalZoom__bottom\">\n        <p>Prefer to work with a lawyer?<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/?fli=state_biz:dir:lz_esum\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Find one right now.<\/a><\/p>\n\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n<div class=\"general-list\">\n    <h3>Helpful Links<\/h3>\n    <ul class=\"fl-list fl-no-margin\">\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\/starting-a-business.html\">\n                        Starting a Business\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\/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                        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                               <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/franchising\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Franchising Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-commercial-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Business &#038; Commercial Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a 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-il-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 nonprofit in Illinois has some state-specific considerations and legal requirements. FindLaw details the steps for opening an Illinois nonprofit.<\/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":[10],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-5354","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-smallbusiness","tag-aff-nonprofit"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5354","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=5354"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5354\/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=5354"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5354"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5354"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=5354"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=5354"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}