No—you don’t need a lawyer to get 501(c)(3) approval.
Attorneys are great for complex legal issues, but you don’t need one just to get IRS approval. And here’s the truth: most attorneys have never actually run a nonprofit. This process isn’t just about filing paperwork—it’s about strategy, structure, and setting you up for long-term success. What you do need is someone who knows exactly what the IRS is looking for and what it takes to lead a nonprofit in the real world. That’s where I come in—I’ve led organizations myself and helped hundreds of founders get approved with a 100% success rate.
The EZ is quicker for small nonprofits; the long form sets you up for growth.
The EZ form is quicker and less expensive ($275), but it’s only for very small nonprofits projecting under $50,000 in revenue per year in each of the first 3 years. The long form ($600) is more detailed but sets you up for growth, credibility with funders, and long-term success. I’ll help you choose the right form for your goals.
No—the IRS just wants to know that you have a clear plan for your first programs.
You don’t need to be fully operating yet. The IRS simply wants to see a clear, written plan for your first programs: what you’ll do, who you’ll serve, and how it furthers your charitable purpose. I help my clients craft program narratives that are simple, compelling, and IRS-ready.
The average approval time is 3-6 months.
With my process, most clients are ready to file in about 4–6 weeks. Once filed, the IRS typically takes 3–6 months. I have had some of my applications approved in as short as three days and my longest took a year. The nicest way I can say it is that the IRS is a bit of a “mystery.” Filing correctly the first time avoids costly delays.
Mistakes cause returned paperwork—or denial of your application. Expert help avoids those pitfalls.
Even small errors (like missing required language in your Articles of Incorporation) can cause months of delay—or even outright denial. I’ve figured out the IRS system and know exactly what they want to see. That’s why I personally handle every detail for my clients—so your application gets approved the first time.
No. Once approved, your status is permanent if you stay compliant.
That means filing your annual IRS Form 990 and keeping up with your state’s filing requirements.
You’re not alone—I can pick up where you left off and finish it.
Many founders start the process and then get stuck. I can review what you’ve already done, correct or complete it, and move you quickly to IRS approval.
The IRS requires at least three unrelated directors.
Some states have additional requirements. I’ll help you build a board that not only meets the rules but also strategically supports your mission.
Yes—but the majority of your board must be unrelated.
This ensures accountability and prevents conflicts of interest. A healthy mix of family and trusted community leaders often works best.
Yes—if it’s reasonable, board-approved, and funds are available.
Once your nonprofit is approved and has funds available, you can take a reasonable salary for the work you do. The IRS expects pay to be fair for the role and approved by the board. I guide my clients through setting this up correctly so it supports both you and your mission.
Board members usually serve as volunteers, with some exceptions.
They can be reimbursed for expenses, and in some cases may also serve in staff roles. If that happens, it requires careful documentation and a strong conflict-of-interest policy.
Yes—if you keep receipts and the board approves it.
If you personally paid for expenses to get your nonprofit started, you can be reimbursed once funds are raised. The key is documentation: keep receipts, note the purpose, and make sure the board approves reimbursement.
Yes—donations are retroactively tax-deductible once approved.
You can accept donations as soon as your Articles of Incorporation are filed. Once the IRS approves your status, those donations become retroactively tax-deductible. Be transparent with donors, and note that some states require charitable registration before fundraising.
Grants usually come after approval—most startups begin with donations.
Most grants are awarded to nonprofits that are already IRS-approved and operating. It’s rare to get grants for startup costs. Most founders start with individual donations, small fundraisers, or personal contributions. Once approved, you’ll be in a stronger position to pursue grants.
Yes—profits just have to be reinvested in your mission.
Nonprofit doesn’t mean “no profit.” It means any profits must go back into your mission, not into an owner’s pocket. Generating revenue is not only allowed—it’s necessary to stay sustainable.
You may need to refile with the long form to stay compliant.
If your nonprofit grows beyond the EZ requirements, you may need to refile using the long Form 1023. That’s why I often recommend starting with the long form upfront if you expect growth or plan to seek grants.
Not on mission-related income, but payroll and other taxes may apply.
Approved nonprofits are exempt from federal income tax on mission-related activities. You may still owe payroll taxes (if you have staff), sales tax (depending on your state), or unrelated business income tax for activities outside your mission.
Yes—your nonprofit can buy, lease, or own property.
A nonprofit can lease, buy, or own property in its name just like any other legal entity.
That’s fine—just be sure to file your annual IRS Form 990.
It’s okay if your nonprofit has low revenue. The key is compliance. Even small nonprofits must file an IRS Form 990 every year. If you fail to file for three consecutive years, your tax-exempt status will be automatically revoked.
I don’t just file forms—I build strong nonprofits with strategy and support.
Services like LegalZoom will file forms, but they don’t provide strategy or guidance. With me, you get one-on-one support, bylaws that actually protect you, a realistic budget the IRS will accept, and a 100% done-for-you process backed by 30+ years of nonprofit leadership.
I have a 100% approval rate—your application is fully prepared before filing.
Every detail is reviewed and prepared to give you the strongest possible foundation for approval.
I form most types of nonprofits.
Most of my clients are 501(c)(3) public charities, but I also form private foundations, faith-based organizations, churches, 501(c)4) and 501(c)(6) membership associations.
IRS approval is just the beginning.
You’ll still need to manage finances, file annual reports, and stay compliant with both the IRS and your state. I offer ongoing financial management and compliance support so you don’t have to figure it out alone.
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