{"id":5400,"date":"2025-01-08T11:05:12","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T16:05:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-texas.html"},"modified":"2025-06-02T14:23:00","modified_gmt":"2025-06-02T19:23:00","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-texas","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-texas.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Start a Nonprofit in Texas"},"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\/v1745900060\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/voting-states-maps-Texas\/voting-states-maps-Texas.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 Texas<\/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 Texas<\/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 Texas<\/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                            June 02, 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><i><b>Creating a nonprofit in Texas requires several steps such as naming the nonprofit, assembling a board of directors, filing articles of incorporation, applying for an employer identification number (EIN), and applying for tax-exempt status. Learn all the steps to make your Texas nonprofit legal and tax-exempt.<\/b><\/i><\/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-tx-in-content\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Callout\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $99 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"tableOfContent\">\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents\">\n        <span role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" class=\"table-of-contents__title\">Twelve Steps To Create a Texas Nonprofit<\/span>\n                <ul class=\"table-of-contents__list\">\n                        <li><a href=\"#One\" title=\"1. Describe Your Nonprofit&#039;s Purpose\">1. Describe Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Purpose<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Two\" title=\"2. Choose and Register Your Business Name\">2. Choose and Register Your Business Name<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Three\" title=\"3. Incorporate Your Nonprofit\">3. Incorporate Your Nonprofit<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Four\" title=\"4. Write Your Nonprofit&#039;s Bylaws\">4. Write Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Bylaws<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Five\" title=\"5. Choose Your Board of Directors and Hold the Initial Organizational Meeting\">5. Choose Your Board of Directors and Hold the Initial Organizational Meeting<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Six\" title=\"6. Get a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)\">6. Get a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Seven\" title=\"7. Appoint a Registered Agent\">7. Appoint a Registered Agent<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eight\" title=\"8. Apply for a Federal Tax-Exempt Status\">8. Apply for a Federal Tax-Exempt Status<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Nine\" title=\"9. Apply for State Tax Exemption\">9. Apply for State Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Ten\" title=\"10. Complete Charitable Solicitation Registration\">10. Complete Charitable Solicitation Registration<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eleven\" title=\"11. Get Local Business Licenses and Permits\">11. Get Local Business Licenses and Permits<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Twelve\" title=\"12. File Periodic Reports With the State of Texas\">12. File Periodic Reports With the State of Texas<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Starting a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/what-is-a-nonprofit-.html\">nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0involves much of the same planning and preparation as opening a for-profit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business.html\">small business<\/a>. Nonprofits also have unique legal considerations due to their charitable nature and eligibility for tax exemptions.<\/p>\n<p>The process for\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/how-to-form-a-non-profit.html\">forming a nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0is similar regardless of state, but there are some unique regulations, guidelines, and laws for launching a nonprofit in Texas.<\/p>\n<p>This article will guide you through starting a Texas\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-texas&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nonprofit<\/a>\u00a0corporation. It also outlines how\u00a0incorporation\u00a0will protect you and other nonprofit members from the organization&#8217;s liabilities and debts.<\/p>\n<p>See 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 information and resources for starting and operating a successful\u00a0nonprofit.<\/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-tx-mcta\" target=\"_blank\">\n                <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Get Started<\/span>\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2>Twelve Steps To Create a Texas 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\">Describe Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Purpose<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>The first step in starting a Texas nonprofit is to explain its purpose. Once you&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-mission-statement-for-a-nonprofit.html\">define the purpose<\/a>&nbsp;of your organization, you can determine whether your organization qualifies for tax-exempt status and whether your donors qualify for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/tax\/federal-taxes\/charitable-contributions.html\">tax deductions for charitable contributions<\/a>&nbsp;to your organization.<\/p>\n<p>A nonprofit&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115291\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-texas&amp;auto-aff-c-corp\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">corporation<\/a>&nbsp;differs from others because every nonprofit has a specific purpose. A nonprofit&#8217;s primary goal is to serve a predetermined mission rather than generate profits for owners or shareholders. Any&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-do-nonprofits-make-money-.html\">extra capital<\/a>&nbsp;generated gets reinvested into the organization&#8217;s mission.<\/p>\n<p>There are several types of nonprofits, but they all share a commitment to a social, cultural, environmental, or charitable purpose.<\/p>\n<p>Because of this, some&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/overview-non-profit-benefits.html\">nonprofit organizations<\/a>&nbsp;and donors enjoy certain tax exemptions.<\/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\">Choose and Register Your Business Name<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/choosing-your-business-name.html\">Choose a unique name<\/a>&nbsp;for your organization and register the name with the secretary of state. This requires some research before you are ready to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/registering-the-name-of-your-business.html\">register your nonprofit&#8217;s name<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Start by brainstorming several&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/business-names-do-s-and-don-ts.html\">potential names<\/a>&nbsp;for your business. Choose a memorable name that accurately describes the nature of your nonprofit.<\/p>\n<p>Then, you have to confirm the name you selected is available and not already in use. Your nonprofit&#8217;s name must be unique and not conflict with any other business name registered in Texas. Check your name&#8217;s availability on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/sosda\/index.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SOSDirect section<\/a>&nbsp;of the Texas Secretary of State website.<\/p>\n<p>You should also check for federal trademarks if you plan to operate nationally or across several states. You can use the federal&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.uspto.gov\/trademarks\/search\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">trademark database tool<\/a>&nbsp;on the United States Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) website to do this. It is essential to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/how-to-search-for-trademarks.html\">avoid accidental infringement<\/a>&nbsp;\u2014 this can force you to disrupt your branding by changing your business name or even land you&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/intellectual-property\/trademark-infringement-law-q-a.html\">in a lawsuit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Find FAQ for business name filing and registration on the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/namefilingsfaqs.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Texas Secretary of State website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Once you are ready, register your business name with the Texas Secretary of State. You can do this online through&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/sosda\/index.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">SOSDirect<\/a>&nbsp;or by filing&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/forms\/502_boc.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 502<\/a>&nbsp;in person or via mail or fax. This requires a $25 registration fee.<\/p>\n<p>The Secretary of State office aims to process business name registrations within five to seven business days.<\/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\">Incorporate Your Nonprofit<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Unlike an unincorporated nonprofit association, incorporating your nonprofit&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/small-business-corporation-faq.html\">provides liability protection<\/a>&nbsp;for yourself and other members. This means your assets are safe from the organization&#8217;s debts and liabilities. Going through the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-corporation-faq.html\">incorporation process<\/a>&nbsp;also provides a formal legal structure for your organization.<\/p>\n<p>You will start this process by naming an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/incorporator.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">incorporator<\/a>. An incorporator handles signing your organization&#8217;s&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/state-guide-articles-of-incorporation.html\">articles of incorporation<\/a>. They will also file the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/forms\/202_boc.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nonprofit certificate of formation<\/a>&nbsp;with the Texas Secretary of State. You only need one person to serve as your incorporator, but you can have more.<\/p>\n<p>The certificate of formation must include the names of the initial directors and incorporators.<\/p>\n<p>The incorporation process is complete once your incorporator files the&nbsp;certificate of formation.<\/p>\n<p>Note that simply filing a certificate of formation will not&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/chronology-choosing-a-business-name.html\">protect the name of your nonprofit corporation<\/a>. You must register your business name separately.<\/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\">Write Your Nonprofit&#8217;s Bylaws<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You will need to create bylaws and a conflict of interest policy.<\/p>\n<p>Think of your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/writing-corporate-bylaws.html\">bylaws as the governing documents<\/a>&nbsp;for your nonprofit. They also outline how your business operates. Your bylaws should:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>List rules and procedures for making decisions<\/li>\n<li>Establish the roles and responsibilities of company officers and directors<\/li>\n<li>Address meeting protocols and voting procedures<\/li>\n<li>List the procedure for amending the articles of incorporation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Depending on the needs of your nonprofit, you may include other details in your bylaws.<\/p>\n<p>Your&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/what-is-corporate-governance-.html\">conflict of interest policy<\/a>&nbsp;outlines the procedure your nonprofit will follow should a board member&#8217;s interests conflict with the organization&#8217;s best interests.<\/p>\n<p>You must have both your bylaws and conflict of interest in policy in place before you can file for&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-organizations\/exemption-requirements-501c3-organizations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">501(c)(3) tax-exempt status with the Internal Revenue Service<\/a>&nbsp;(IRS).<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            5\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Five\">Choose Your Board of Directors and Hold the Initial Organizational Meeting<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>You must form the rest of your board once you name the initial directors and incorporators. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/codes.findlaw.com\/tx\/business-organizations-code\/bus-org-sect-22-204.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Texas Business Organizations Code<\/a>&nbsp;describes who must be on a nonprofit organization&#8217;s board of directors.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporate-structure-directors-to-shareholders.html\">Board members<\/a>&nbsp;must include at least three directors, including one president and one secretary.<\/p>\n<p>The same person can&#8217;t serve as president and secretary. People are officers and directors, not businesses or other corporations.<\/p>\n<p>Board members should formally adopt the bylaws and conflict of interest policy during the first organizational meeting.<\/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\">Get a Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every business in the United States must have an Employer Identification Number (EIN) issued by the IRS. An&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/what-is-an-ein-.html#:~:text=Employer%20Identification%20Numbers%20(EINs)%2C,EIN%20is%20a%20sole%20proprietorship.\">EIN is like a Social Security number for your business<\/a>&nbsp;and is for identification purposes.<\/p>\n<p>It is easy and free to apply for an EIN through the IRS. The fastest way to get your EIN is to&nbsp;<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 through the IRS website<\/a>. Watch out for commercial sites that charge a fee for an EIN \u2014 many of them mimic the appearance of the official IRS website. If a website asks you to pay for an EIN, it is not the IRS.<\/p>\n<p>You can also apply by fax, mail, or phone by filing&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-ss-4\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRSForm SS-4<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>You will need an EIN to apply for a corporate&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-finances\/the-basics-of-accounting-for-small-businesses.html\">bank account<\/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                            7\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Seven\">Appoint a Registered Agent<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>A&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-registered-agent-.html\">registered agent<\/a>&nbsp;is a person or company responsible for receiving legal documents on behalf of a nonprofit organization. Any adult can be your registered agent, but they should have a physical address in Texas.<\/p>\n<p>If your business operates in several states, you must have a registered agent in each state.<\/p>\n<p>You may choose to hire a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-become-a-registered-agent.html\">registered agent<\/a>&nbsp;service. These companies typically operate in many states, which is convenient if you operate nationally or across states.<\/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 a Federal Tax-Exempt Status<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Eligible nonprofit organizations and donors enjoy&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">501(c)(3) tax-exempt status<\/a>&nbsp;from the IRS. To apply,&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/applying-for-tax-exempt-status\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">complete the application on the IRS website<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>You will use either&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023<\/a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023-ez\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023-EZ<\/a>. Form 1023-EZ is a streamlined form for smaller nonprofits. The filing fee for Form 1023 is $600. The cost for Form 1023-EZ is $275.<\/p>\n<p>IRS grants 501(c)(3) status to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/exempt-organization-types#:~:text=Organizations%20organized%20and%20operated%20exclusively,501(c)(3).\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">approved organizations<\/a>, including nonprofits. 501(c)(3) organizations include the following types of charitable organizations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Religious<\/li>\n<li>Educational<\/li>\n<li>Scientific<\/li>\n<li>Literary<\/li>\n<li>Testing for public safety<\/li>\n<li>Fostering national or international amateur sports competition<\/li>\n<li>Preventing cruelty to children or animals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>With a determination letter, the IRS will notify you of its decision for your federal income tax exemption.<\/p>\n<p>You must keep up with several ongoing requirements to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/run-a-non-profit-keeping-your-tax-exempt-status.html\">keep your federal tax-exempt status<\/a>. This includes filing an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/annual-filing-and-forms\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">annual report (Form 990)<\/a>&nbsp;with the IRS annually.<\/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 State Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>In Texas, nonprofit organizations can apply for exemption from state sales taxes. Your organization does not have to pay sales taxes on purchases to further your nonprofit&#8217;s purpose. This exemption is not automatic. You must apply using&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/comptroller.texas.gov\/taxes\/exempt\/forms\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form AP-204<\/a>&nbsp;or Form AP-205 on the Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts website.<\/p>\n<p>Nonprofit organizations eligible for the Texas&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/comptroller.texas.gov\/taxes\/publications\/96-1045.php\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">sales tax exemption<\/a>&nbsp;include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>A Chamber of Commerce \u2014 this is the only nonprofit organization in Texas that doesn&#8217;t need to apply for the exemption<\/li>\n<li>Homeless shelters and soup kitchens<\/li>\n<li>Tourist promotion agencies, if sponsored by a city or county in the state<\/li>\n<li>Private elementary schools and parent-teacher associations or parent-teacher organizations<\/li>\n<li>Religious organizations<\/li>\n<li>Rural volunteer fire departments<\/li>\n<li>Little league sports teams<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            10\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Ten\">Complete Charitable Solicitation Registration<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Unlike some states, Texas does not make all&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/divisions\/charitable-trusts\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">charitable organizations<\/a>&nbsp;register with the state before soliciting donations or fundraising. But organizations raising money for law enforcement, public safety, or veterans organizations must register.<\/p>\n<p>Three bodies of law explain the registration requirements for these types of charitable solicitations in Texas:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/statdoc\/faqs3200.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Public Safety Solicitation Act<\/a>&nbsp;(PSSA)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/statdoc\/faqs3500.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Veterans Solicitation Act<\/a>&nbsp;(VSA)<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/divisions\/charitable-trusts\/registration-and-filings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Law Enforcement Telephone Solicitation Act<\/a>&nbsp;(LETSA)<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sos.state.tx.us\/corp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Texas Secretary of State<\/a>&nbsp;accepts registration documents for compliance with the PSSA and VSA. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.texasattorneygeneral.gov\/divisions\/charitable-trusts\/registration-and-filings\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Texas Office of the Attorney General<\/a>&nbsp;takes registration documents to follow the LETSA requirements.<\/p>\n<p>Filing fees range from $50 to $500.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            11\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Eleven\">Get Local Business Licenses and Permits<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Texas does not require a general business license. But, you may need&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/local-businesses-licenses.html\">local licenses or permits<\/a>&nbsp;depending on your nonprofit&#8217;s scope and where it operates.<\/p>\n<p>The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) website has a&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.sba.gov\/business-guide\/launch-your-business\/apply-licenses-permits\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">business license and permit lookup tool<\/a>. This tool allows entrepreneurs to find the state and federal license requirements for their types of business.<\/p>\n<p>You can also use the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/gov.texas.gov\/uploads\/files\/business\/Texas_Licenses_Permits_Guide.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Texas Business Licenses and Permits Guide<\/a>, published by the Texas&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/gov.texas.gov\/business\/page\/business-permits-office\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Business Permit Office<\/a>. This comprehensive guide provides a list of permits for different types of businesses operating in Texas.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            12\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Twelve\">File Periodic Reports With the State of Texas<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>A nonprofit organization must file a periodic report every four years. This report must include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Business name<\/li>\n<li>Name of the state or county where the company is incorporated<\/li>\n<li>The registered office address and the name of the registered agent<\/li>\n<li>Principal office address<\/li>\n<li>Names and addresses of the directors of the corporation<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You will use&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/direct.sos.state.tx.us\/help\/web%20filing%20instructions%20form%20802(0711).pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 802<\/a>&nbsp;for your periodic report, which requires a $5 filing fee. Remember to&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/form-990-resources-and-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">file your annual 990 tax return<\/a>&nbsp;with the federal government.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Need More Help With Your Texas Nonprofit? Get Legal Advice<\/h2>\n<p>It takes much time and effort to complete the various legal steps to ensure your nonprofit qualifies as a tax-exempt organization. You&#8217;ll want to get it right the first time. An experienced attorney can take on the complicated legal aspects of your nonprofit formation and ensure your organization complies with Texas state laws and federal policies.<\/p>\n<p>Contact a Texas\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">business organization lawyer<\/a>\u00a0to learn how they can help with your nonprofit corporation formation.<\/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-tx-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-tx-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-tx-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>FindLaw explains how to start a nonprofit in Texas, covering incorporation, tax exemptions, and legal protections. Learn the steps to create a Texas 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-5400","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\/5400","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=5400"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5400\/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=5400"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5400"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5400"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=5400"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=5400"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}