Your Simple Path to 501(c)(3) Status

Starting a nonprofit shouldn’t feel like a barrier to your vision. My process is designed to handle every legal and administrative detail, providing you with a clear, stress-free path to launching your organization. Below is the step-by-step journey we’ll take together.

The Step-by-Step Process

1 Your Vision & Strategy Session

It all begins with your free Nonprofit Discovery Call. This is more than just a consultation; it’s a strategic session where we dive into your mission and goals. You’ll share your vision, and I’ll map out a clear, strategic roadmap to get you from “just an idea” to IRS-approved.The goal is to ensure we are perfectly aligned before we take the first official step together.

2 We Handle the Complex Paperwork

Once we decide to move forward, my work begins. While you focus on rallying support for your cause, I take care of everything—drafting and filing your Articles of Incorporation with the exact IRS-required language, securing your EIN, writing your program narrative, creating custom bylaws that protect both your mission and your role as founder, developing your 3-year budget, and completing and filing your IRS Form 1023. Every detail is handled so it’s done right the first time, saving you time, stress, and costly mistakes.

3 You Get Your Official 501(c)(3) Approval

After we submit the application, I serve as your direct contact with the IRS and will respond to any inquiries. The journey concludes when you receive the official 501(c)(3) determination letter from the IRS in the mail. You are now a fully recognized, tax-exempt nonprofit organization, ready to make a lasting impact.

What's Included

Our 100% Done-for You comprehensive nonprofit formation service includes:

🎦 1-on-1 Zoom meetings with an experienced nonprofit strategist

✉️ Unlimited email support

📂 Articles of Incorporation preparation & filing

👤 Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN) application

📝 Program narrative writing (in IRS language)

⚖️ Custom bylaws drafting with founder protections

🪙 3-year budget development

📃 IRS Form 1023 preparation & filing

🗄️ Management of all IRS correspondence

💻 Digital copies of all filed documents

📚 Resources & referrals to help you stay compliant and growing

Frequently Asked Questions

Here’s what most founders want to know before we get started.

How long does the process typically take?

Most clients complete the 1023 filing process in 6 weeks or less. The IRS approval timeline can range from 3 to 9 months. With my expertise—and a 100% approval rate—you can be confident your application is accurate, complete, and set up for the fastest possible review.

How is your service different from LegalZoom, Attorneys or doing it myself

Unlike DIY kits or online form services, I work with you personally from start to finish. We meet over Zoom, and I guide you through every decision while handling all the paperwork for you. With 30+ years of nonprofit leadership experience, you’re not just getting IRS approval—you’re building a strong foundation for long-term success.

What information will you need from me?

I keep this simple with a straightforward 4-step process. You’ll provide your proposed organization name, mission statement, and the names and addresses of your initial board members. If you don’t yet have a board, I’ll help you identify the right people and recruit them. We’ll also outline your programs and create a basic 3-year budget—then I take it from there.

Do I need to have everything figured out before we start?

Not at all! Many clients come to me with just an idea and a heart to serve. I’ll help you clarify your mission, define your programs, and make sure you have everything the IRS requires—without getting stuck in the details.

What happens after I get my 501(c)(3) approval?

Once your approval letter arrives, you’ll be ready to launch your programs, connect with donors and volunteers, and meet your ongoing compliance requirements. I’ll point you toward the right resources and can continue supporting you with services like board development and financial management—so you can move forward with confidence from day one.

Take the First Step Toward Your Legacy

Every great nonprofit starts with a simple conversation. Your vision is too important to get lost in paperwork—or put on hold another year. Let’s talk through your ideas, answer your questions, and map out a clear path from dream to IRS-approved reality.

You don’t have to figure it out alone. I’ve helped hundreds of founders go from “Where do I start?” to “We’re officially launched!”—and I’d love to help you, too. Book your complimentary Nonprofit Discovery Call today.