Nonprofit organizations can file as a 501c.
A 501c organization is an incorporated charitable organization formed with a specific mission that seeks to benefit the public. Directors may not keep any of the profits. Some 501c organizations qualify to obtain tax exemption from the state and/or the federal government. If exemption is not granted, the organization's profits are treated like corporate profits and will be taxed as such.
Instructions
1. Choose an available name for the organization. Consult with your state's corporate filing department. Each state has different regulations regarding appropriate names; more than 20 states require "corporation," "incorporated," "limited," "corp.," "inc.," or "ltd." at the end of the name.
2. Choose the board of directors for the organization. The directors must be willing to have their names and addresses filed with the state for 501c status.
3. Write the organization's bylaws. These will include how the organization will vote, be managed and will handle funds. Each state has regulations on how the articles and bylaws need to be written to qualify for 501c status; consult the appropriate state agency for individual laws.
4. Visit the secretary of state's office, online or in person, for the state in which the organization will be based. Request an articles of incorporation form for a domestic nonprofit.
5. Fill out the form. Include the purpose of the organization. To qualify for 501c, the statement of purpose must include one of the following words or phrases: charitable, educational, scientific, religious, literary or promoting amateur athletics.
6. File the form with the secretary of state along with the filing fee. (See Resources.)
