Starting a Nonprofit: State Directory

The steps to create a nonprofit organization with tax-exempt status include naming the nonprofit, filing articles of incorporation, obtaining an Employer Identification Number (EIN), applying for federal and state tax exemptions, and registering your charitable organization with the state.

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Starting a nonprofit takes more than just a desire to make a positive impact. Nonprofits are small businesses needing just as thorough of planning as for-profit businesses. Nonprofits also have specific legal structures and differences in ownership and control.

There are a few basic steps to forming your nonprofit startup:

1. Choose the name for your nonprofit organization
2. Appoint a board of directors
3. File articles of incorporation
4. Create bylaws
5. Hold initial board of directors meeting
6. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)
7. Apply to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for tax-exempt status
8. Apply to the state for tax-exempt status
9. Register your nonprofit with the state (if applicable)

You will also need to know the specific laws and regulations of the state you plan to form and operate in. While some laws apply uniformly nationwide, other procedures differ by state.

The state-specific articles below will guide you through what you need to know to form a nonprofit in your jurisdiction. Learn more about:

• Benefits of incorporating your nonprofit
• Best practices for selecting board members, board chairs, and an executive director
• Registering your nonprofit with your area’s secretary of state
• Applying for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) through the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)
• Funding your nonprofit with grants, fundraising, endowments, and legacy gifts
• Obtaining tax-exempt status with your state’s department of revenue
• Requirements for annual reports, articles of incorporation, and bylaws

If you’re ready to start your new venture, use the state-specific links in this article for the steps to start a nonprofit in your state.

Although not a state, New York City is included in the list below. NYC has specific rules and regulations for nonprofits that are separate from the state of New York.

Form your nonprofit with confidence. Our trusted partner LegalZoom has packages starting at $99 + filing fees.

You’ve decided the benefits of starting a nonprofit are worth it. Find your state below to learn how to form your nonprofit corporation.