How to Form a Nonprofit Corporation: A 50 State Guide

Follow these steps to form your own nonprofit 501(c)(3) corporation.

Form a Nonprofit in Eight Steps

Here are the basic steps you'll need to take to form your nonprofit.

The Pros and Cons of a Fiscal Sponsor for Nonprofits

Learn about this alternative to forming your own nonprofit.

Should a Nonprofit Organization Trademark Its Name or Logo?

Does your nonprofit need the legal protection a federally registered trademark might offer?

What Risks Are Our Nonprofit Taking If We Can't Yet Afford to Trademark Our Name or Logo?

Using trademarks that aren’t registered is a risky business.

Our Nonprofit Was Denied Tax Exemption: What to Tell Our Initial Donors?

A nonprofit's options, and what to advise donors, after the IRS issues a denial of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

Should You Consult With a Lawyer Before Forming a Nonprofit?

A lawyer can help you start a nonprofit and deal with contract, trademark, and other relevant issues as you get underway.

Nonprofit Basics

Nonprofit corporations are entitled to grants, tax exemptions, and limited liability protection.

Five Reasons to Incorporate Your Nonprofit Association

Not sure whether to incorporate your nonprofit? Here's some information to help you decide.

How are Nonprofits Affected by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act?

Nonprofits can expect less charitable giving and fewer charitable bequests under the new tax law.

Nonprofits FAQ

Answers to some common questions about nonprofits.

Why It's Worth Finding Nonprofit Board Members Who Aren't Friends or Family

Friends or family members might be the most willing board members while the nonprofit is in its initial growth stages. But they also might, due to social dynamics or for other reasons, be reluctant to offer ideas or suggestions that are counter to other board members.

Our Nonprofit Was Denied Tax Exemption: What to Tell Our Initial Donors?

A nonprofit's options, and what to advise donors, after the IRS issues a denial of 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.

When Should Our Nonprofit Hire a Lawyer?

Once your nonprofit is established, and if it reaches a significant size, it may find itself using a lawyer on a regular basis. When hourly fees begin to mount, it may be time to look into having a lawyer on retainer or hiring a staff lawyer, also known as in-house counsel or general counsel.

Signing a Contract With Your Nonprofit's Lawyer

Important clauses and concepts to review and include in the written representation agreement you sign with your nonprofit's lawyer.

What are Section 501(c)(4) Social Welfare Organizations?

Learn the difference between 501(c)(3) nonprofits and 501(c)(4) social welfare organizations.

What is An Unincorporated Nonprofit Association?

Find out what it takes to create one and how they operate.

IRS Charity Classification: Private Foundation or Public Charity?

This IRS 501(c)(3) classification has a significant impact on how a charity can operate and the rules it must follow.

Nonprofit Formation Documents: Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws, and Organizational Minutes

Learn the basics about your nonprofit's important organizational and corporate documents: articles, bylaws, and first minutes.

How to Write a Mission Statement for a Nonprofit

Your mission statement is a single concise statement that should serve to explain and your nonprofit’s purpose and guide its work.

Create a Strategic Plan for Your Nonprofit

Learn the basic steps that any nonprofit can take to prepare a solid and functional strategic plan.