The Free Formation Module

The Free Nonprofit Starter Kit

Nine short reads to help you figure out exactly what your nonprofit needs next.

Nine short reads~25 minutes totalRead on the web

Your Starter Kit

Each part is a short, focused read, spot what you need, then the suites and the Nonprofit Formation do the work.

1
Start here

What is a 501(c)(3)?

A 30-second look at what a 501(c)(3) is, plus a quick check to see if it is the right path for you.

~3 min read
2
Before you form

Form your own, or use a sponsor?

Decide between your own 501(c)(3) and operating under a fiscal sponsor.

~3 min read
3
Set up

Name & mission

Check that your name is clear to use and your mission passes the IRS test.

~3 min read
4
Set up

Your founding board

How many members you need, the independence rules, and who to recruit first.

~3 min read
5
Budget

What it really costs

The real startup fees, a quick budget check, and the ongoing costs people forget.

~3 min read
6
Filing

Which IRS form?

Check whether you qualify for the faster, cheaper 1023-EZ or need the full 1023.

~3 min read
7
The roadmap

The formation timeline

The four phases from idea to Determination Letter, and how to spot where you are.

~3 min read
8
Donations

Can you accept donations yet?

When gifts become tax-deductible, and what to tell early donors.

~3 min read
9
Avoid traps

Common pitfalls

The four areas founders trip on, with a self-audit to spot where you are exposed.

~3 min read

Done reading? Time to actually form your nonprofit.

When you’re ready to file, the Formation Suite gives you state-specific Articles, bylaws, and IRS application drafts, plus the tools to run everything after.

See pricing →