Turn your mission into a tax-exempt organization that can accept donations, apply for grants, and make a measurable difference.
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LegalZen took us from idea to 501(c)(3) status without us getting lost in the IRS forms. We started fundraising six months earlier than expected.
From basic state incorporation to full federal tax-exempt status — pick the level of help you want.
+ state filing fees
Get your nonprofit officially incorporated at the state level.
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+ state filing fees
Everything you need to operate as a nonprofit and start fundraising.
Form my nonprofitIncludes Basic, plus
+ state and IRS fees
Full white-glove service including federal tax-exempt application.
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A 501(c)(3) opens doors that other entity types can't.
Skip federal income tax on revenue tied to your mission, and let donors deduct their gifts.
Most foundations and government grants are only available to registered 501(c)(3) organizations.
Tax-exempt status signals legitimacy to donors, partners, and the communities you serve.
Six steps to go from mission to fully operational tax-exempt organization.
A clear, charitable purpose is the foundation of every IRS application.
Most states require at least 3 unrelated directors to govern your nonprofit.
File articles of incorporation as a nonprofit corporation in your state.
The internal rules for how your nonprofit will be governed and operated.
Required to open a bank account and apply for federal tax exemption.
The application for 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status. Smaller nonprofits can use the shorter 1023-EZ.
The IRS typically takes 2–6 months for Form 1023-EZ (the streamlined version) and 6–12 months for the full Form 1023. State incorporation usually happens in 1–4 weeks, so you can start operating as a state-level nonprofit while you wait for federal exemption.
Yes. Nonprofits can and do pay reasonable salaries to staff, including founders. The key word is "reasonable" — comparable to similar roles at similar-sized organizations. The board (not the person being paid) should approve compensation.
"Nonprofit" is a state-level designation — you incorporate as a nonprofit corporation. "501(c)(3)" is a federal IRS classification that grants tax-exempt status and lets donors deduct contributions. Most nonprofits want both, but they're filed separately.
Start a nonprofit today and join thousands of organizations changing their communities.
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