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Solution501(c)(3) takes more paperwork than a normal LLC, plus a layer of state charitable solicitation registration in 40+ states. We do all of it.
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For nonprofit founders and operators
Built for Nonprofits · all 51 jurisdictions

Start the nonprofit. We handle the paperwork.

501(c)(3) recognition requires nonprofit articles, a Form 1023 or 1023-EZ to the IRS, state charitable solicitation registration in most states, plus all the annual reporting. We handle every step from formation through ongoing compliance.

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9,400+
Nonprofits formed
87%
1023-EZ eligibility
40+
State charity registrations
A+
BBB rated
Why nonprofits pick File.Business

Built around how nonprofits actually operate.

Three things you will not get from a generic formation site.

01

501(c)(3) federal status

Form 1023-EZ or full 1023 guidance, depending on your projected revenue.

02

Bylaws + Articles included

IRS-acceptable bylaws and conflict-of-interest policy templates in the dashboard.

03

Charitable solicitation registration

40 states require it before fundraising. We track which apply to you.

How we set it up

From founding intent to tax-exempt status.

01
Articles + bylaws

We file Articles of Incorporation as a nonprofit, draft bylaws with required IRS language, and capture initial board minutes.

Week 1
02
EIN

IRS Form SS-4 filed. EIN typically same business day for US-domiciled founders.

Week 1
03
Form 1023 or 1023-EZ

We assess 1023-EZ eligibility (gross receipts under $50k, assets under $250k). Most start-stage nonprofits qualify. We prepare and file the right form.

Week 2 to 6
04
Determination letter

IRS issues 501(c)(3) determination letter (2 to 4 weeks for 1023-EZ, 3 to 6 months for long form). You can now accept tax-deductible donations.

After IRS
05
State charity registration

Register with each state where you solicit donations. We file in 40+ states. Renewal calendar maintained.

Initial
06
Form 990 and state renewals

IRS Form 990 (or 990-N or 990-EZ) due 4.5 months after fiscal year-end. State renewals annual. We track all of this.

Ongoing
In their own words

How customers like you use the platform.

"1023-EZ approved in 19 days. We were taking donations and issuing receipts the next week."
PR
Pastor R. MartinezFounder, Cedar & Hill Foundation
"Charity registration in 38 states for fundraising would have taken us a year alone. They did it in six weeks."
JA
Joyce AdamsonExecutive Director, Riverside Youth Arts
"990 was always a fire drill. Now the calendar reminds the board, the books are ready, and our CPA closes in days, not weeks."
DC
David ChenBoard Chair, Lighthouse Mental Health
FAQ

Frequently asked questions.

What is 501(c)(3)?
The IRS classification that makes donations to the nonprofit tax-deductible to donors. Achieved by filing Form 1023 or 1023-EZ and receiving an IRS determination letter.
1023 or 1023-EZ?
1023-EZ is shorter, faster, and cheaper but limited to nonprofits with gross receipts under $50,000 and assets under $250,000. Most new nonprofits qualify.
How long until we can accept donations?
You can accept donations from day one of formation; they only become tax-deductible to donors after the IRS issues the 501(c)(3) determination letter. The determination is retroactive to the formation date if filed within 27 months.
State charity registration?
40+ states require nonprofits to register before they can legally solicit donations in that state. Online fundraising broadly triggers most states.
Form 990 annual filing?
Every 501(c)(3) files an annual Form 990 with the IRS: 990-N (gross receipts under $50k), 990-EZ ($50k to $200k), or full 990 ($200k+). Due 4.5 months after fiscal year-end.
Can we have paid staff?
Yes. Nonprofit revenue can pay employees, including the founder, as long as compensation is reasonable. We help structure this properly.
Board requirements?
Most states require at least 3 directors (some allow 1). We help structure the board, draft conflict-of-interest policies, and document initial meetings.
What about private foundations?
Private foundations are a different category (also 501(c)(3) but with more restrictions). We support both; the formation process differs.
Religious organizations?
Churches are automatically 501(c)(3) without filing 1023, but most still file for the determination letter to make donor receipts cleaner.

Start your nonprofit.

Tell us a few details. We do the rest. You get a single dashboard for everything.

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