How to Start a Non-Profit Company in the USA

Navigate the non-profit maze.

If you love a cause and want to dedicate yourself to it, start a non-profit organization. The simple process may even surprise you. All you need is initiative, passion and the desire to contribute to the greater good.

Instructions

Start a Non-profit

1. Draft a mission statement. Be sure to include the grand purpose of your organization. One solid paragraph will suffice.

2. Contact the IRS to formally apply for a non-profit organization. They will send you an application. Resist the urge to hire an attorney to complete this as careful attention will allow anybody to complete it themselves. Be sure to thoroughly read through the application.

3. Draft some by-laws and Articles of Incorporation. Again, an attorney is not necessary. Use boilerplate forms available for free online and modify it for your cause. For the by-laws, the following components should be included: purposes of the non-profit, membership details, meeting structure, voting procedures, board of directors, officers, dues and amendment procedures.

4. Apply for tax exemption at the federal and state levels. Contact the respective governmental body to obtain an application. Now that you have completed all of the necessary steps to formally start a non-profit, turn your attention to fundraising.

References

• IRS Website