{"id":5404,"date":"2025-01-08T12:55:04","date_gmt":"2025-01-08T17:55:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/content.findlaw-admin.com\/ability-law\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-virginia.html"},"modified":"2025-06-03T13:06:00","modified_gmt":"2025-06-03T18:06:00","slug":"how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-virginia","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-virginia.html","title":{"rendered":"How To Start a Nonprofit in Virginia"},"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\/v1746570226\/ability-law\/wp-prod\/voting-states-maps-Virginia\/voting-states-maps-Virginia.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 Virginia<\/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 Virginia<\/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 Virginia<\/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 03, 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>To create a Virginia nonprofit organization you must name your organization, gather a board of directors, file articles of incorporation, apply for an employer identification number (EIN) and register for tax-exemptions. Learn all the necessary steps to start a nonprofit in Virginia.<\/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-va-in-content\" rel=\"sponsored noopener\" data-cta=\"Biz LZ - LATL Callout\" data-cta-url=\"legalzoom.com\" target=\"_blank\">Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $99 + filing fees.<\/a><\/i><\/b><\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"tableOfContent\">\n    <div class=\"table-of-contents\">\n        <span role=\"heading\" aria-level=\"2\" class=\"table-of-contents__title\">Ten Steps To Start a Virginia 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. Register Your Organization&#039;s Name\">2. Register Your Organization&#8217;s Name<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Three\" title=\"3. Incorporate Your Organization\">3. Incorporate Your Organization<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Four\" title=\"4. Hold Your First Organizational Meeting for the Board of Directors\">4. Hold Your First Organizational Meeting for the Board of Directors<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Five\" title=\"5. Obtain an EIN\">5. Obtain an EIN<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Six\" title=\"6. Appoint a Registered Agent\">6. Appoint a Registered Agent<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Seven\" title=\"7. Apply for a Federal Tax Exemption\">7. Apply for a Federal Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Eight\" title=\"8. Apply for State Tax Exemption\">8. Apply for State Tax Exemption<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Nine\" title=\"9. Register for Charitable Solicitation\">9. Register for Charitable Solicitation<\/a><\/li>\n                        <li><a href=\"#Ten\" title=\"10. File Periodic Reports\">10. File Periodic Reports<\/a><\/li>\n                    <\/ul>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<p>Starting a nonprofit in Virginia requires much of the same business planning as a for-profit startup. You&#8217;ll also need to navigate the legal requirements unique to nonprofits.<\/p>\n<p>A\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/non-profit-corporation-faq.html\">nonprofit corporation<\/a>\u00a0is a legal entity formed for a charitable, social, or public benefit. Unlike for-profit corporations,\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-va&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nonprofits<\/a>\u00a0reinvest revenue to further their mission rather than turning a profit. Because of their charitable nature, some nonprofits enjoy benefits like\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">federal income tax exemption<\/a>. But these benefits aren&#8217;t easy to obtain. It requires time, money, and rigorous planning.<\/p>\n<p>In the following sections, you will learn how to create a nonprofit in Virginia. You&#8217;ll also learn how and why to\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/the-basics-of-small-business-incorporation.html\">incorporate your nonprofit<\/a>.<\/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-va-mcta\" target=\"_blank\">\n                <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Get Started<\/span>\n                <i class=\"fa fa-angle-right medium\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><\/i>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2>Ten Steps To Start a Virginia 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 Internal Revenue Service (IRS) requires\u00a0nonprofit\u00a0organizations to have a purpose statement.<\/p>\n<p>Nonprofit organizations with\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-purposes\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">the following purposes<\/a>\u00a0can receive tax-exempt status:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Charitable<\/li>\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 competitions<\/li>\n<li>Preventing cruelty to children or animals<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Clearly defining your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/how-to-write-a-mission-statement-for-a-nonprofit.html\">nonprofit&#8217;s purpose<\/a>\u00a0will help you apply for grants and determine your eligibility for federal and state 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\">Register Your Organization&#8217;s Name<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>A business must have a unique name. Virginia requires that your\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/choosing-a-business-name.html\">business name<\/a> is not identical to any other registered or reserved business name in the state.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/scc.virginia.gov\/pages\/Business-Entity-Names\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia law<\/a>\u00a0also states a business name may not contain misleading information. For example, if your company isn&#8217;t a registered limited liability company (LLC) in Virginia, you cannot use &#8220;LLC&#8221; or &#8220;limited liability company&#8221; as part of your organization&#8217;s name.<\/p>\n<p>Virginia requires you to register your nonprofit&#8217;s name with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). <a href=\"https:\/\/cis.scc.virginia.gov\/Account\/NameCheckAvailability\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Check the availability of your preferred business name<\/a> on their website. The SCC database also includes the names of all registered or reserved Virginia businesses.<\/p>\n<p>From a branding and marketing perspective, you should choose a name that:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Resonates with your target audience<\/li>\n<li>Is easy to remember<\/li>\n<li>Accurately describes the nature of your nonprofit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>You can also\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/cis.scc.virginia.gov\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">reserve your business name<\/a>\u00a0for up to 120 days using the SCC&#8217;s Clerk&#8217;s Information System.<\/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 Organization<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Structuring your nonprofit\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/small-business-corporation-faq.html\">as a corporation<\/a>\u00a0protects yourself and other members from the organization&#8217;s\u00a0liabilities and debts. It also provides a formal legal structure for your nonprofit and streamlines the process of applying for federal tax-exempt status.<\/p>\n<p>You&#8217;ll\u00a0incorporate your nonprofit\u00a0organization with the state. In Virginia, business owners formally incorporate any company (including a nonprofit) by<a href=\"https:\/\/www.scc.virginia.gov\/pages\/Virginia-Nonstock-Corporations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">\u00a0filing articles of incorporation with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC)<\/a>. The application fee is $75, with an approximate processing time of 3-7 business days.<\/p>\n<p>Some states allow a nonprofit to organize as a limited liability company (LLC). But,\u00a0forming a nonprofit as an LLC\u00a0instead of a corporation is uncommon. It can complicate applying for tax exemptions and securing funding from private donors or grants.<\/p>\n<p>Specifically, the IRS will not grant an LLC tax-exempt status unless each member is a corporation recognized as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. The IRS requires LLCs to meet\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-drop\/n-21-56.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">several other conditions<\/a>\u00a0to qualify for 501(c)(3) status.<\/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\">Hold Your First Organizational Meeting for the Board of Directors<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Your nonprofit&#8217;s\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/corporate-structure-directors-to-shareholders.html\">board of directors<\/a>\u00a0provides overall governance and leadership for your organization.<\/p>\n<p>You will need to have an initial meeting with your board of directors. Your board will accomplish several key business objectives at this meeting, including:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Approving your nonprofit&#8217;s\u00a0corporate bylaws<\/li>\n<li>Adopting a conflict of interest policy<\/li>\n<li>Finalizing various\u00a0financial matters, like opening a corporate bank account<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your board will oversee strategic and financial oversight and make key decisions for your nonprofit.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            5\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Five\">Obtain an EIN<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every business must have a federal\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-taxes\/what-is-an-ein-.html\">employer identification number<\/a>\u00a0(EIN) through the IRS.\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/businesses\/small-businesses-self-employed\/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Applying on the IRS website<\/a>\u00a0is the fastest and easiest way to get your EIN. The IRS issues these numbers for free. Commercial sites will charge a fee for an EIN\u2014they look similar to the official IRS website.<\/p>\n<p>You can apply for an EIN by phone, online, or mail. Response time differs depending on how you apply:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Apply by phone or online and get a response immediately<\/li>\n<li>Apply by mail and get a response in 4-5 weeks<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Your nonprofit will need an EIN before you can apply for 501(c)(3) status, open a bank account, or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/employment-law-and-human-resources\/what-to-do-when-you-hire-an-employee-for-the-first-time.html\">hire employees<\/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                            6\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Six\">Appoint a Registered Agent<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every business entity in Virginia must have a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/what-is-a-registered-agent-.html\">registered agent<\/a>. A registered agent is an organization&#8217;s designated party for\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/dictionary.findlaw.com\/definition\/service-of-process.html\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">service of process<\/a>. &#8220;Service of process&#8221; is the legal procedure of officially delivering legal documents, such as lawsuits or other legal notices.<\/p>\n<p>Every state has its own rules for registered agents. In Virginia, a registered agent must have a physical address in the state. They also must maintain an office open during regular business hours.<\/p>\n<p>If you can&#8217;t find a qualified individual to serve as your\u00a0registered agent, you can hire a <a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-va&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">registered agent service<\/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\">Apply for a Federal Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Some nonprofits are eligible for tax-exempt status\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-organizations\/exemption-requirements-501c3-organizations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code<\/a>. 501(c)(3) status is a legal designation allowing eligible organizations an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/becoming-a-tax-exempt-organization.html\">exemption from federal income tax<\/a>. Donors can also deduct\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/tax\/federal-taxes\/charitable-contributions.html\">charitable contributions<\/a>\u00a0to 501(c)(3) organizations from their federal tax returns.<\/p>\n<p>Organizations seeking exempt status from the IRS must apply by filing\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-1023\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 1023-EZ or Form 1023<\/a>. Most small nonprofits can use the simplified Form 1023-EZ. To use the simplified form, a nonprofit must:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Have gross receipts of no more than $50,000 in any of the previous three years<\/li>\n<li>Expect to have less than $50,000 in receipts for the next three years<\/li>\n<li>Have assets valued at less than $250,000<\/li>\n<li>Meet\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/pub\/irs-pdf\/i1023ez.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">other qualifications<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The filing fee is $275 for IRS Form 1023-EZ and $600 for the standard IRS Form 1023.<\/p>\n<p>You will receive an\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/charitable-organizations\/exempt-organizations-rulings-and-determinations-letters\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRS determination letter<\/a>\u00a0after approval. The IRS will also add your organization to its\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/charities-non-profits\/search-for-tax-exempt-organizations\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Tax Exempt Organization Search Tool<\/a>\u00a0on its website. Potential donors may use this list to confirm they can deduct financial contributions to your nonprofit before donating.<\/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 State Tax Exemption<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>After receiving your\u00a0determination letter\u00a0from the IRS for federal income tax exemption, you&#8217;ll automatically receive a state of Virginia income tax exemption. There is no need to apply or notify the state.<\/p>\n<p>Your nonprofit may also be eligible for a state sales and use tax exemption on eligible purchases. This isn&#8217;t automatic like the sales income tax exemption. You must apply through the Virginia Department of Taxation using Form NP-1 or\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.npo.tax.virginia.gov\/VTOL_External_Entity\/NPOLogin.xhtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Nonprofit Online<\/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 for Charitable Solicitation<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Every charitable organization soliciting charitable donations must register with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdacs.virginia.gov\/food-charitable-solicitation.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs<\/a>. Your organization must meet the office&#8217;s filing requirements before any fundraising activities.<\/p>\n<p>Charitable solicitation includes phone calls, texts, social media, and using Venmo and PayPal&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/how-to-use-your-nonprofit-website-to-fundraise.html\">to fundraise<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Some charitable organizations (including ones that solicit less than $5,000 in donations annually) are exempt from the registration requirement. Use&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdacs.virginia.gov\/pdf\/oca100exemption.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Form 100<\/a>&nbsp;to apply and see a full list of exempt organizations.<\/p>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"steps-container-item\">\n                <div class=\"category-overview category-overview-item-steps\">\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-heading category-overview-heading-steps\">\n                        <div class=\"category-overview-steps\">\n                            10\n                        <\/div>\n                        <h2 class=\"category-overview-steps-title\" id=\"Ten\">File Periodic Reports<\/h2>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"category-overview-content-steps\">\n                        <p>Once your startup nonprofit is operating with the proper exemptions and registrations, you want to ensure you remain in good standing and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/incorporation-and-legal-structures\/run-a-non-profit-keeping-your-tax-exempt-status.html\">maintain your tax-exempt status<\/a>. There are a few ongoing obligations you will need to stay on top of:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>File&nbsp;<\/b>an&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/scc.virginia.gov\/pages\/Annual-Registration-Fees\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">annual report<\/a>&nbsp;with the Virginia SCC annually. The filing fee for the report is $25.00.<\/li>\n<li><b>File&nbsp;<\/b>the appropriate template of&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.irs.gov\/forms-pubs\/about-form-990\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">IRS Form 990<\/a>&nbsp;annually with your federal tax return. The filing fee depends on the specific form your organization must use.<\/li>\n<li><b>Renew&nbsp;<\/b>your charitable organization registration with the&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.vdacs.virginia.gov\/food-charitable-solicitation.shtml\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia Office of Charitable and Regulatory Programs<\/a>&nbsp;annually. Renewal fees are on a sliding scale, depending on your annual gross contributions.<\/li>\n<li><b>Renew&nbsp;<\/b>your Virginia sales and use tax exemption every five years. The&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.tax.virginia.gov\/nonprofit-online-faqs\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia Department of Taxation<\/a>&nbsp;will notify you 120 days before the deadline. But mark your calendars as an extra precaution.<\/li>\n<li><b>File&nbsp;<\/b>all appropriate state tax returns annually.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n            <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2>Does My Virginia 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Need a Business License?<\/h2>\n<p>Your nonprofit does not need a general business license from the state of Virginia. But you may need local\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/starting-a-business\/business-licenses-and-permits.html\">licenses or permits<\/a>\u00a0depending on the location of your organization and the scope of your operations. Cities and counties oversee licensing and permits\u2014contact your county clerk to see what your organization may need.<\/p>\n<p>If you plan to have a physical location, you should also research\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/smallbusiness\/business-operations\/commercial-zoning.html\">zoning ordinances and requirements<\/a>.<\/p>\n<h2>You May Want Legal Help With Your Virginia Nonprofit<\/h2>\n<p>Navigating the legal requirements of starting a nonprofit organization can get overwhelming quickly. You must perform the extensive business planning required for any small business, on top of securing tax exemptions, charitable organization registration, and articles of\u00a0incorporation.<\/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, resources, and FAQ on starting and operating a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/legalzoomcominc.pxf.io\/c\/4851649\/2115293\/26746?subId1=how-to-start-a-nonprofit-in-va&amp;auto-aff-non-profit\" data-wplink-edit=\"true\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">nonprofit<\/a>.<\/p>\n<p>Sometimes, getting professional legal help makes the most sense. An experienced attorney can take on the legal aspects of your business formation, leaving you more time and energy to focus on your nonprofit&#8217;s mission. Contact a\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/virginia\/?fli=dcta\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Virginia business organizations attorney<\/a>\u00a0to learn how they can help you.<\/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-va-custom\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">our trusted 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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                  <\/defs>\n                <\/svg>\n            <\/i>\n        <\/button>\n        <button\n                class=\"was-this-helpful__button fl-text-sm\"\n                aria-label=\"No\"\n                value=\"no\"\n        >\n            <span class=\"was-this-helpful__button-text fl-text-bold\">No<\/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-down\" clip-path=\"url(#clip0_604_3423)\">\n                        <path id=\"Vector\"\n                              d=\"M16 0.999995H18.67C19.236 0.989986 19.7859 1.18813 20.2154 1.55681C20.645 1.9255 20.9242 2.43905 21 3V10C20.9242 10.5609 20.645 11.0745 20.2154 11.4432C19.7859 11.8119 19.236 12.01 18.67 12H16M9.00003 14V18C9.00003 18.7956 9.3161 19.5587 9.87871 20.1213C10.4413 20.6839 11.2044 21 12 21L16 12V0.999995H4.72003C4.2377 0.994543 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                                class=\"fl-radio-button-field-input\"\n                                type=\"radio\"\n                                name=\"negative-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--negative-other\"\n                        >Other<\/label>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/fieldset>\n            <\/div>\n            <div class=\"was-this-helpful__form-buttons-container\">\n                <button\n                    class=\"was-this-helpful__feedback-button was-this-helpful__feedback-button--positive at-feedback-submit fl-button secondary\"\n                    type=\"submit\"\n                >\n                    <span class=\"fl-button-content\">Submit<\/span>\n                    <i\n                        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-va-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                        <\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n    <div class=\"popularDirectory\">\n        <div class=\"general-popular-directory \">\n            <div class=\"general-popular-directory-title\">\n                <h3>Attorney Directory<\/h3>\n            <\/div>\n            <ul>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/business-organizations\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Business Organization Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/mergers-acquisitions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> Mergers &#038; Acquisitions Attorneys<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/antitrust-trade-regulation\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Antitrust Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <li><a href=\"https:\/\/lawyers.findlaw.com\/banking-finance-law\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Banking &#038; Finance Lawyers<\/a><\/li>\n                                    <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-va-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>Learn the steps for starting a Virginia nonprofit organization at FindLaw. Find out how to incorporate, get an EIN, apply for tax-exempt status, and more.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":41135,"featured_media":0,"parent":5123,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"app\/Http\/Controllers\/Templates\/ArticleDIYConversionController.php","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_stopmodifiedupdate":true,"_modified_date":"","_autodraft_ids":[],"_cloudinary_featured_overwrite":false,"_sb_is_suggestion_mode":false,"_sb_show_suggestion_boards":false,"_sb_show_comment_boards":false,"_sb_suggestion_history":"","_sb_update_block_changes":"","_is_real_time_mode":false,"_realtime_collaborators":"","footnotes":"","cf_checklist_status":[]},"categories":[2],"tags":[],"state_laws_tags":[],"flmsa":[],"class_list":["post-5404","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry","category-smallbusiness"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5404","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=5404"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/5404\/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=5404"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=5404"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=5404"},{"taxonomy":"state_laws_tags","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/state_laws_tags?post=5404"},{"taxonomy":"flmsa","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.findlaw.com\/law-api\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/flmsa?post=5404"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}