Fact Sheet: The Steps to Establishing 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Status

You must...

You should...

You can...

1) Formulate a mission statement.

 

 

2) Form a Board of Directors.

 

 

3)

 

File articles of incorporation.

4)

Draft by-laws.

 

5)

Develop a strategic plan.

 

6)

Develop a business plan.

 

7) Develop a budget.

 

 

8) Develop a record keeping system.

 

 

9) Develop an accounting system.

 

 

10) File for 501(c)(3) status.

 

 

11) File for state tax exemption.

 

 

12) File for local tax exemption.

 

 

13) Fulfill charitable solicitation law requirements.