Forming a Non-Profit
Organization
Step-by-Step
Is a non-profit the best vehicle for you to accomplish your goals?
Be sure you understand NonProfit
Basics.
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, a non-profit organization can
be an non-stock corporation or an LLC. Once a non-profit founder(s) has determined
the vision, here are the suggested steps in creating a non-profit:
- Incorporate as a Virginia
Non-Stock Corporation or Limited
Liability Company (LLC) through the State Corporation Commission's Office
of the Clerk.
- Apply for a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN or EIN) through
the IRS. Apply online
or download, print, and mail the SS-4.
- File IRS Form 1023
to request 501(c)(3)
non-profit status.
- Apply for Commonwealth of Virginia non-profit status using VATAX
NonProfit Online.
- Register with the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
as a charitable organization so that you may accept donations. The registration
package may be found here.
- Check if you will have local business zoning, home occupancy, or license
requirements.
Helpful Resources (VDBA has found these sites helpful to some
users, but is not responsible for their content):
USA.gov for Non-profits
GuideStar - connecting people with
non-profit information
The
Nonprofit FAQ
The NonProfit Times - an online periodical
Connect Richmond Now - a variety
of articles and resource listings
Virginia Network of Nonprofit Organizations
(VANNO)
