Form a private foundation. 501(c)(3) for grant-making.
A private foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity funded by a single source (family, individual, or company) that primarily makes grants to other charities. Unlike public charities, the foundation does not solicit donations and is subject to stricter rules: 5% minimum annual distribution, 1.39% excise tax on net investment income, prohibitions on self-dealing. We form the entity, prepare Form 1023, and set up Form 990-PF compliance.
How we handle Private Foundation, end-to-end.
A private foundation is a 501(c)(3) charity funded by a single source (family, individual, or company) that primarily makes grants to other charities.
Entity formation
Form a state nonprofit corporation (typically the donor's home state). Articles of Incorporation with required 501(c)(3) charitable purposes language. Initial board of directors (typically 3-5 family members).
Form 1023 application
Form 1023 IRS application for 501(c)(3) recognition. Private foundation classification automatic for foundations meeting the definition (single source of funding, not public charity). $600 IRS user fee.
Compliance setup
Set up Form 990-PF annual return system, EFTPS account for 1.39% excise tax, grant-making policies, self-dealing avoidance procedures.
Operational handoff
Foundation operational. Initial endowment funded. Grant-making policies and budget established. Annual Form 990-PF schedule set up.
A clean handoff, in four steps.
You give us the basics. We handle the state, the IRS, and the compliance clock so you can focus on the business.
A name that's actually available.
Real-time check against the state register, USPTO trademark database, and matching domains.
Filed with the Secretary of State.
We submit your Articles, pay the state fee on your behalf, and return the stamped certificate.
EIN + the right tax setup.
Federal Employer ID with the IRS, plus state tax accounts when your business needs them.
Registered Agent + deadline tracking.
Your agent on file in every state, with every renewal and annual report tracked in one calendar.
Transparent private foundation pricing.
Government fees pass through at cost. No upsells.
Foundation formation
Entity formation, Form 1023 application, EIN, compliance procedures, board governance documents. IRS user fee ($600) separate.
Get startedPlus year-1 management
Foundation formation plus year-1 management: first Form 990-PF preparation, 5% distribution tracking, excise tax payment, board governance support.
Get startedOngoing foundation management
Year 2+ ongoing management at $3,999/year. Form 990-PF, distribution tracking, excise tax, board meeting support, grant compliance review. For foundations not large enough to hire dedicated staff.
Get startedAbout the Private Foundation Formation Service.
What is a private foundation?
Private foundation vs. donor-advised fund?
What is the 5% distribution rule?
What is self-dealing?
Can I pay myself to manage the foundation?
What is Form 990-PF?
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