Getting to 501(c)(3)

For charities not yet incorporated or not yet tax-exempt.

Fuller guidance forthcoming — this page is a starting point.

The usual path from idea to recognized 501(c)(3):

  1. Incorporate as a nonprofit in your state (articles of incorporation).
  2. Get an EIN from the IRS — free, online, takes minutes.
  3. Adopt bylaws and hold an organizing board meeting with minutes.
  4. File Form 1023 or 1023-EZ for federal tax-exempt status.

You don’t have to wait for IRS approval to work with FFC — pre-501(c)(3) charities are welcome, and each milestone you complete raises your readiness score. See Form 1023 vs. 1023-EZ for choosing a form. Fuller step-by-step guidance is forthcoming.

← Back to intake · How readiness is scored