{"id":5365,"date":"2025-01-06T11:28:20","date_gmt":"2025-01-06T16:28:20","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-michigan.html"},"modified":"2025-05-30T14:37:00","modified_gmt":"2025-05-30T19:37:00","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-michigan","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-michigan.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Start a Nonprofit in Michigan"},"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\/v1746220373\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/voting-states-maps-Michigan\/voting-states-maps-Michigan.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 Michigan<\/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 Michigan<\/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 Michigan<\/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 30, 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 several steps to create a Michigan nonprofit organization including choosing a name for your nonprofit, incorporating your nonprofit, appointing a board of directors, applying for tax-exempt status, and registering your nonprofit with the state. Learn more about forming a nonprofit in Michigan.<\/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-mi-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\">Nine Steps to Start a Michigan Nonprofit<\/span>\n                <ul class=\"table-of-contents__list\">\n                        <li><a href=\"#One\" title=\"1. Name Your Nonprofit Corporation\">1. Name Your Nonprofit Corporation<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Two\" title=\"2. Create Your Nonprofit&#039;s Board of Directors\">2. Create Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Board of Directors<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Three\" title=\"3. Name a Registered Agent\">3. Name a Registered Agent<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Four\" title=\"4. File Articles of Incorporation\">4. File Articles of Incorporation<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Five\" title=\"5. Hold an Initial Meeting of the Board of Directors\">5. Hold an Initial Meeting of the Board of Directors<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Six\" title=\"6. Obtain an Employer Identification Number\">6. Obtain an Employer Identification Number<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Seven\" title=\"7. Apply to the IRS for a 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption\">7. Apply to the IRS for a 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eight\" title=\"8. Confirm Automatic State Tax Exemptions\">8. Confirm Automatic State Tax Exemptions<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Nine\" title=\"9. Register To Solicit Donations in Michigan\">9. Register To Solicit Donations in Michigan<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-michigan&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">startup process for a nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0can be just as complex and intimidating as starting a for-profit business. While many aspects of starting a nonprofit are consistent across states, Michigan has some unique laws and guidelines for\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0formation.<\/p>\n<p>While you aren&#8217;t required to\u00a0incorporate your nonprofit, doing so will protect your officers, directors, and members from\u00a0personal liability\u00a0for the organization&#8217;s debts and obligations. Conversely, if you structure your nonprofit as an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/what-is-an-unincorporated-organization-.html\">unincorporated association<\/a>, you and others who run the nonprofit may be liable should a party sue the organization.<\/p>\n<p>Because of this, it&#8217;s usually beneficial for Michigan small business owners to set up their nonprofit organizations as\u00a0corporations\u00a0and write bylaws. The following steps explain how to set up a Michigan\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-corporation-faq.html\">nonprofit corporation<\/a>\u00a0that is compliant with state and federal law.<\/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-mi-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>Nine Steps to Start a Michigan 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\">Name Your Nonprofit Corporation<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/choosing-a-business-name.html\">Choosing a name for your corporation<\/a>\u00a0is essential to establish your nonprofit&#8217;s identity. Your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/chronology-choosing-a-business-name.html\">business name<\/a>\u00a0should be both distinct and memorable. Your name must be unique because Michigan will not register any corporation with a name conflicting with any other organization registered in the state.<\/p>\n<p>Fortunately, the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/lara\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Department of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs<\/a>\u00a0(LARA) makes it easy\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cofs.lara.state.mi.us\/SearchApi\/Search\/Search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">to search registered names on its website<\/a>. If your name is available but you aren&#8217;t yet ready to register with the state, you can reserve it for six months. To do this, file an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/-\/media\/Project\/Websites\/lara\/cscl\/Folder5\/Name_Reservations.pdf?rev=0fb1f939b4ac4c038b08a29f170add65\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Application for Reservation of Name<\/a>\u00a0with LARA. There is a $10 filing fee for reserving a name.<\/p>\n<p>Make sure you have adequately researched your nonprofit&#8217;s name before registering it. This includes checking whether it&#8217;s subject to a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/trademarks-and-business-names.html\">state or federal trademark<\/a>. It&#8217;s unlikely for a trademark holder to sue a\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0for\u00a0monetary damages. But it could force you to change the name of your business if your nonprofit grows enough to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/enforcing-trademark-rights.html\">cause brand confusion<\/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\">Create Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Board of Directors<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/what-is-corporate-governance-.html\">board of directors<\/a>\u00a0oversees the operations of your nonprofit corporation. It&#8217;s responsible for establishing and maintaining your organization&#8217;s mission, vision, and\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/strategic-planning-for-nonprofit-organizations.html\">strategic planning<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Your board needs to consist of at least three unrelated directors to meet IRS requirements. Board members don&#8217;t have to reside in Michigan. You can appoint\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mi\/chapter-450-corporations\/mi-comp-laws-450-2501a.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">one board member who is 16 or 17 years old<\/a>\u00a0if you have a board of three. If you have a larger board, the total number of board members who are 16 or 17 can&#8217;t be more than half of the total number of directors.<\/p>\n<p>Your board\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/mi\/chapter-450-corporations\/mi-comp-laws-450-2531.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">must include the following officers<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>President<\/li>\n<li>Secretary<\/li>\n<li>Treasurer<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>An individual officer may hold more than one of the roles above.<\/p>\n<p>When recruiting your board members, consider the skills and contributions they would bring to your organization. Look for the following qualities in potential board members:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Fundraising experience<\/li>\n<li>Grant writing background<\/li>\n<li>Networking skills and community connections<\/li>\n<li>Passion for your organization&#8217;s mission<\/li>\n<li>Leadership skills<\/li>\n<li>Adaptability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Reference FindLaw&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-organizations.html\">Nonprofit Organizations<\/a>\u00a0section for more resources and information for your\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0business venture.<\/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\">Name a Registered Agent<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-registered-agent-.html\">Registered agents<\/a>\u00a0are responsible for receiving legal notices on behalf of a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115291\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-michigan&amp;auto-aff-c-corp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">corporation<\/a>. The agent must have a physical address in Michigan\u2014courts can&#8217;t serve legal papers to a post office box. The agent must also be available during business hours to receive legal documents.<\/p>\n<p>Most new nonprofits name the incorporator, director, or another officer as their registered agent. This person often has a legal background, but it isn&#8217;t required. If you can&#8217;t find someone to serve as your\u00a0registered agent, you can hire a registered agent service.<\/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\">File Articles of Incorporation<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your nonprofit corporation will become a separate legal entity when you\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-articles-of-incorporation.html\">file the articles of incorporation<\/a>\u00a0with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/lara\/bureau-list\/cscl\/corps\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Corporations Division at LARA<\/a>. To file, fill out, and submit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/documents\/lara\/502_08-15_527692_7.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form CSCL\/CD-502<\/a>, Articles of Incorporation for use by\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/lara\/bureau-list\/cscl\/corps\/corporations\/types\/domestic-nonprofit-corporation\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Domestic Nonprofit Corporations<\/a>. You will need to include the following information:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your corporation&#8217;s name<\/li>\n<li>Whether your corporation is issuing stock (the state of Michigan is one of the few that allow nonprofit corporations to issue stock)<\/li>\n<li>If issuing stock, it must list the number of shares issued<\/li>\n<li>If your corporation isn&#8217;t issuing stock, it will need to list the value of its assets and financing details<\/li>\n<li>Whether the nonprofit formation is on a membership or directorship basis (if it&#8217;s a membership corporation, members can vote on corporate action; if it&#8217;s a directorship corporation, the board of directors determines the organization&#8217;s actions)<\/li>\n<li>Names and addresses of the incorporator(s)<\/li>\n<li>The specific purpose for your corporation&#8217;s formation<\/li>\n<li>Name and address of the registered agent<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) usually requires detailed information when considering an application for a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">federal exemption<\/a>. This includes how the corporation will govern its internal affairs. It also includes information on how the corporation will distribute its assets in the event of\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/closing-a-business\/necessary-steps-to-dissolve-your-company.html\">dissolution<\/a>, which refers to a business shutting down.<\/p>\n<p>The IRS also requires language restricting the corporation&#8217;s activities to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-purposes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">one or more of the following purposes<\/a>:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Charitable<\/li>\n<li>Educational<\/li>\n<li>Religious<\/li>\n<li>Scientific<\/li>\n<li>Fostering amateur sports competition<\/li>\n<li>Preventing cruelty to children or animals<\/li>\n<li>Testing for public safety<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>There is a $20 filing fee.<\/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\">Hold an Initial Meeting of the Board of Directors<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>The first organizational meeting of the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporate-structure-directors-to-shareholders.html\">board of directors<\/a>\u00a0is essential. This meeting must accomplish several key business objectives, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Approving corporate\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-corporate-bylaws.html\">bylaws<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Electing directors and appointing officers<\/li>\n<li>Adopting a conflict of interest policy<\/li>\n<li>Opening a\u00a0bank account<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The IRS will only accept your corporation&#8217;s application for tax-exempt status\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-organizations\/exempt-purposes-internal-revenue-code-section-501c3\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code<\/a>\u00a0if board members have adopted corporate bylaws or a conflict of interest policy by the time you file the application.<\/p>\n<p>A conflict of interest policy will help your organization avoid situations where the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/why-directors-must-dissent-from-objectionable-board-decisions.html\">personal interests of any board member<\/a>\u00a0could compromise the nonprofit&#8217;s mission.<\/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\">Obtain an Employer Identification Number<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You must request a federal&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/getting-an-employer-identification-number-ein.html\">employer identification number<\/a>&nbsp;(EIN) from the IRS after you file your nonprofit&#8217;s articles of incorporation. An EIN is a unique identifying number that operates like your corporation&#8217;s Social Security number. You will need an EIN to apply for 501(c)3 tax-exempt status from the IRS and to open a corporate bank account.<\/p>\n<p>You can apply for an EIN for free on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRS website<\/a>. Watch out for commercial sites charging for an EIN. Some of these sites look like the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">official IRS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>You can also request a free EIN by filing a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-ss-4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form SS-4<\/a>&nbsp;by mail or fax.<\/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 to the IRS for a 501(c)(3) Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your new nonprofit isn&#8217;t automatically exempt from federal income tax.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/applying-for-tax-exempt-status\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">You need to apply for this through the IRS<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">Receiving 501(c)3 designation<\/a>\u00a0from the IRS grants several important benefits for a nonprofit corporation, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Your nonprofit has exemption from paying federal income taxes<\/li>\n<li>Donors may deduct contributions to the organization on their federal income tax returns<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>File\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ<\/a>\u00a0to complete your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/application-for-recognition-of-exemption\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Application for Recognition of Exemption<\/a>\u00a0from the IRS. Your organization can file using the streamlined Form 1023-EZ if it:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Has projected gross receipts of less than $50,000 for the next three years<\/li>\n<li>Has not earned $50,000 in any of the previous three years<\/li>\n<li>Does not have assets valued at more than $250,000<\/li>\n<li>Meets\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/i1023ez.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">certain additional qualifications<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Other organizations need to file using the standard Form 1023. The filing fee is $275 for IRS Form 1023-EZ and $600 for Form 1023.<\/p>\n<p>The IRS will issue a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-organizations\/exempt-organizations-rulings-and-determinations-letters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">determination letter<\/a>\u00a0once it grants your nonprofit corporation exempt status. Donors considering donating to your organization can verify your exempt status through the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/tax-exempt-organization-search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tax Exempt Organization Search Tool<\/a>\u00a0on the IRS website.<\/p>\n<p>Your nonprofit&#8217;s relationship with the IRS doesn&#8217;t end with the issuance of the determination letter. You must file a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-990\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">990 Series Form<\/a>\u00a0informational return each year for your organization. There are a few different templates of this form:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Nonprofits with gross receipts of less than $50,000 annually can file with the IRS electronically using\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/annual-electronic-filing-requirement-for-small-exempt-organizations-form-990-n-e-postcard\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 990-N<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Organizations with less than $200,000 in gross receipts and less than $500,000 in assets can file using the streamlined Form\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/f990ez.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">990-EZ<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>All other exempt organizations must file the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/f990.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">standard Form 990<\/a>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Exempt organizations that don&#8217;t file a Form 990 for two consecutive years will\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/run-a-non-profit-keeping-your-tax-exempt-status.html\">lose their federal 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                            8\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Eight\">Confirm Automatic State Tax Exemptions<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Nonprofit corporations operating in Michigan are automatically exempt from the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/taxes\/business-taxes\/cit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Corporate Income Tax (CIT)<\/a>. Since this state income tax exemption is automatic, you don&#8217;t need to file with the state.<\/p>\n<p>Michigan nonprofit corporations no longer need to apply for an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/taxes\/business-taxes\/sales-use-tax\/information\/exemptions-faq#:~:text=How%20do%20I%20obtain%20a,Michigan%20Sales%20and%20Use%20Tax.\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">exemption to the state&#8217;s sales and use tax<\/a>. Any organization granted a federal tax exemption under section 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) and those previously issued an exemption letter by the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/treasury\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Department of Treasury&nbsp;<\/a>are eligible for the exemption. But you must file&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/mi-aimh.org\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/01\/Michigan-Sales-and-Use-Tax-Certificate-of-Exemption-copy.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 3372, Michigan Sales and Use Tax Certificate of Exemption<\/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\">Register To Solicit Donations in Michigan<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.legislature.mi.gov\/(S(vkbimk3gsagbyqqk1zluneht))\/mileg.aspx?page=getobject&amp;objectname=mcl-act-169-of-1975\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan law<\/a>\u00a0requires organizations soliciting charitable donations in the state to register with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/ag\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Office of the Attorney General<\/a>. But your organization may be exempt from the registration requirement if both of the following are true:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>Your organization received less than $25,000 in a 12-month period<\/li>\n<li>Your organization doesn&#8217;t employ anyone whose primary responsibility is fundraising<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Other organizations exempt from the registration requirement include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Churches and religious organizations<\/li>\n<li>Michigan educational institutions<\/li>\n<li>Licensed Michigan hospitals and associated organizations<\/li>\n<li>Governmental entities<\/li>\n<li>Solicitations only for the benefit of a named individual, so long as there is compensation<\/li>\n<li>Organizations that Congress has chartered to benefit veterans<\/li>\n<li>Private foundations only receiving contributions from individuals who are members, directors, or incorporators of the foundation and their family members<\/li>\n<li>Children and family services organizations licensed by the state<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>If your organization doesn&#8217;t qualify for one of the exemptions above, you will need to file an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/documents\/ag\/Fillable_Initial_App_2-9-09_266590_7.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">initial solicitation form<\/a>\u00a0with the Michigan Attorney General&#8217;s Office. There is no registration fee, and you can submit your application by mail, email, or e-filing. To register, submit the following information:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A complete financial statement (usually an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-990\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRS Form 990<\/a>)<\/li>\n<li>Names of officers and directors<\/li>\n<li>Types of charitable solicitation<\/li>\n<li>A financial purpose statement explaining how your organization uses the donations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Charities receiving more than $275,000 annually in contributions must also provide financial statements that a certified public accountant has reviewed. Charities receiving more than $525,000 in contributions must provide audited financial statements.<\/p>\n<p>Once your organization has submitted its initial filing to the state, you must file a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/consumerprotection\/-\/media\/Project\/Websites\/AG\/charities\/registration-forms\/Renewal-Form-2022-Final3.pdf?rev=dca06bf54a8a4ef7ad1ec332a3e66637\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">renewal solicitation form<\/a>\u00a0each year.<\/p>\n<p>Most nonprofit organizations soliciting donations are also required to register with the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michigan.gov\/consumerprotection\/charities\/charitable-organizations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Charitable Trust Section<\/a>. This service allows potential donors\u00a0to find information on charities, nonprofits, and fundraisers\u00a0they wish to support financially.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Resources for Michigan Nonprofit Owners<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>The\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.mnaonline.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Nonprofit Association<\/a>\u00a0serves the diverse nonprofit sector through advocacy, programming, resources, and more.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/mi-community.org\/nonprofits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Community Resources<\/a>\u00a0provides legal and organizational development services to nonprofit and community-based organizations.<\/li>\n<li>Michigan entrepreneurs can visit a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/michigansbdc.org\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Small Business Development Center<\/a>\u00a0(SBDC) location near them for free business development tools, resources, and expert guidance.<\/li>\n<li>Find small business funding resources on the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michiganbusiness.org\/services\/small-business\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan Economic Development Corporation website<\/a>. Use the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.michiganbusiness.org\/services\/small-business\/resource-finder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Small Business Resource Finder<\/a>\u00a0to discover resources and help near you. Have corporate bylaws or a conflict of interest policy by the time you file the application.<\/li>\n<li>A conflict of interest policy will help your organization avoid situations where the\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/why-directors-must-dissent-from-objectionable-board-decisions.html\">personal interests of any board member<\/a>\u00a0could compromise the nonprofit&#8217;s mission.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>If You Need More Help With Your Nonprofit Formation<\/h2>\n<p>Forming a new nonprofit corporation in Michigan complying with all the state and federal rules for exempt organizations is complex. Some business owners can feel overwhelmed by this process and benefit from professional legal help.<\/p>\n<p>Contact an experienced\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/michigan\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Michigan business organization attorney<\/a>\u00a0to learn how they can help you with your new business. A local attorney can take charge of the intricate legal elements of your nonprofit, such as incorporation, the registration process, tax-exempt status, and more.<\/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-mi-in-content\" 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                    <\/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--other\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"positive-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Other\"\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--other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback was-this-helpful__feedback--negative\">\n                <fieldset>\n                    <legend 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 class=\"fl-radio-button-field fl-flex was-this-helpful__feedback-form-title\">\n                        <input\n                                id=\"was-this-helpful__radio-button--dated\"\n                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-feedback\"\n                                value=\"Out of date\"\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--dated\"\n                        >Out of date<\/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--negative-other\"\n                           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class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--cancel fl-button primary disabled\"\n                    type=\"reset\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Cancel<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        class=\"fa fa-times-circle medium\"\n                        aria-hidden=\"true\"\n                    ><\/i>\n                <\/button>\n            <\/div>\n        <\/form>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message\" role=\"status\">\n        <i class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-icon fa fa-check\"><\/i>\n        <p class=\"was-this-helpful__thank-you-message-text\" aria-live=\"polite\"><\/p>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div class=\" fl-section-sidebar  \"><div 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-mi-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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           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-mi-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>Follow these steps to learn how to start a Michigan nonprofit. Learn about tax-exempt status, incorporation, and state-specific rules and laws at FindLaw.<\/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-5365","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\/5365","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=5365"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5365\/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=5365"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5365"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5365"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=5365"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=5365"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}