Nonprofit FAQs
It is difficult to encompass all of the information about starting a nonprofit organization within a few articles. So, we have included a list of frequently asked questions and their answers.
Are the services that I offer through my nonprofit required to be free?
Are the services that I offer through my nonprofit required to be free?
I want to set up a nonprofit organization. Can a nonprofit pay its staff?
I want to set up a nonprofit organization. Can a nonprofit pay its staff?
When do I need to apply for 501(c)(3) tax exempt status?
In order to receive a tax-exemption dating from the time of your incorporation, you need to file IRS Form 1023 within 27 months of your incorporation.
Do Changes in Our Nonprofit Bylaws Have to Be Reported to the IRS?
An organization that is
exempt from federal
income tax,
as described in
Internal Revenue
Code 501(c)(3), is
required to report changes to its bylaws.
What are Articles of Incorporation? Why Does My Nonprofit Need Them?
Filing articles of incorporation with your state office (usually the Secretary of State Office) is the first step toward making your nonprofit legal.
I am so confused about contracts and agreements.
I am so confused about contracts and agreements. I want to help people, not worry about legalese. Are there some guidelines for what to do when?
I'm starting a nonprofit. When can I start accepting donations?
It is better to get all your nonprofit ducks in a row before you start soliciting donations.
Does My Nonprofit Really Need to Apply for 501(c)(3) Status?
Many nonprofits do not need to apply for 501(c)(3) status. Here are two questions to ask yourself before you go through the arduous process of applying....
How Do I Apply for 501(c)(3) Status?
Applying for 501(c)(3) status is not easy. We have some suggestions and resources for you.
What Is a Nonprofit?
The word nonprofit applies to those organizations that are set up to serve the common good.
Do I Have to File for Tax Exempt Status to Be a Nonprofit?
Does your organization have to become a tax-exempt nonprofit?
Can a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Sell Adspace?
Selling ads in a publication published by a nonprofit is often a good way to increase revenue. But, what are the pitfalls?
How Does a Nonprofit Differ From a Business?
A nonprofit isn't just a business that shows no profit. The differences between a business and a nonprofit are many, and subtle.
How Can I Find Low-Cost Legal Advice?
Sometimes good legal advice is crucial to starting your nonprofit organization.
Can an Organization Be Part Profit and Part Nonprofit?
It is not wise to try to have a hybrid, nonprofit/for-profit organization.
We Have a Tax ID Number. Are We a Nonprofit?
Does having a tax id number make you a nonprofit?
Can We Start Raising Funds or Do We Have to Register First?
It is not enough to become an IRS registered nonprofit in order to raise funds. Most states require registration too.
What Is Unrelated Business Activity?
Most nonprofits engage in some kind of business activity to help support their organization. But, what activities are related and what are unrelated? And, what are the tax implications?