# Registering as a Non-Profit Organization

#### 1. Incorporate Your Non-Profit

First, form a non-profit corporation under your state's laws. You'll need to:

* File Articles of Incorporation with your Secretary of State's office. The filing fee varies by state ($50 - $125 estimate).
* Adopt bylaws that detail how your organization will be run.
* Appoint an initial board of directors.

#### 2. Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

You can apply for an EIN for free through the IRS website. This number is used to identify your organization for tax purposes.

#### 3. File Form 1023 or 1023-EZ with the IRS

To be recognized as a tax-exempt organization, you must file Form 1023, Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code.

* [Form 1023](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023) is a comprehensive form that can take many hours to complete. The filing fee for Form 1023 is $600.
* [Form 1023-EZ](https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-1023ez), also known as the Streamlined Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, is a shorter, simplified version of Form 1023. To use Form 1023-EZ, your organization must meet certain requirements, such as not having projected annual gross receipts over $50,000. The filing fee for Form 1023-EZ is $275.

Both forms are submitted online through [pay.gov](https://www.pay.gov).

#### 4. Apply for State Tax Exemption

After you receive your federal tax exemption, you may need to apply for a state tax exemption, depending on your state’s rules.

#### 5. Ongoing Compliance

Maintain ongoing compliance with federal and state regulations, including filing an annual information return (Form 990, 990-EZ, or 990-N) with the IRS.

Remember, costs will vary depending on your specific circumstances and requirements. It's also highly recommended to consult with a legal professional to ensure you're meeting all necessary legal obligations.

| Task                                             | Cost Estimate       |
| ------------------------------------------------ | ------------------- |
| State Incorporation Fees                         | $50 - $125          |
| Employer Identification Number (EIN) Application | Free                |
| IRS Form 1023 Application Fee                    | $600                |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ Application Fee                 | $275                |
| State Tax Exemption Application                  | Varies by state     |
| Annual IRS Form 990/990-EZ/990-N Return          | Cost of preparation |


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