Looking to Start a Nonprofit?

We receive numerous calls and inquiries from passionate individuals interesting in starting a nonprofit who do not know where to begin.  Through our many collaborative partnerships, we can provide you assistance. Please review our Legal Compliance Checklist for a thorough overview.

Fundamentals for a New Tax-Exempt Entity 

To form a nonprofit corporate entity, you will need to do the following:

File as a nonprofit corporation with the state of Florida

• Articles of Incorporation- Filed with the State (see http://form.sunbiz.org/pdf/cr2e006.pdf)
• Bylaws- Not filed with the State, but required by law
• Initial meeting of Board of Directors and appointment of Initial Officers
• Conflict of Interest Policy- Required by IRS (https://www.irs.gov/instructions/i1023/ar03.html)

File for determination of tax-exempt status with the IRS

• Form SS-4 (for Employer Identification Number)  (see https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/fss4.pdf)
• Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ (for determination) (see https:// www.irs.gov/uac/about-form-1023)

Follow up regarding important next steps, as applicable 

• State registration for solicitation of contributions (see http://forms.freshfromflorida.com/10100.pdf)
• State sales tax exemption (see http://floridarevenue.com/Forms_library/current/dr5.pdf)
• State/County property tax exemption (apply on a county-by-county basis)
• County/City business licenses (apply with appropriate local agency(s))
• State/County/City professional registrations (apply with the appropriate agency(s)) 

The document below will point you to nonprofit Management Support Organizations located throughout the state of Florida.  They provide valuable resources, education, and guidance to nonprofits.  Some also provide classes on how to start a nonprofit organization.  Location and contact information are also provided.

Florida Nonprofit Management Support Organizations (2024)