Free Nonprofit Starter Kit
The real startup costs
Forming a 501(c)(3) costs less than most people fear, but it isn't free. Here's the honest range for a small organization:
- State incorporation: $20–$250, depending on your state.
- IRS application fee: $275 for the streamlined Form 1023-EZ, or $600 for the full Form 1023.
- EIN: free, directly from the IRS.
- Registered agent (optional): $0 if you serve as your own, or roughly $50–$150/year for a service, which keeps your home address off the public record and makes sure you never miss a legal notice.
Ballpark
Budget $300–$900 in fees to get fully formed and recognized. Most small, founder-led organizations land near the low end using the 1023-EZ.
Can you cover the basics?
A quick gut check before you start spending:
Budget check
- You have $300–$900 available for formation fees.
- You have a rough year-one operating budget: even a one-page one.
- You have a way to track money (a separate bank account and simple bookkeeping).
- You can keep a small reserve so a slow fundraising month doesn't sink you.
The ongoing costs people forget
Formation is a one-time spend; staying compliant is the recurring one. Plan for:
- Annual state report fees and charitable-solicitation registration (varies by state).
- Form 990 prep each year, free to file the 990-N yourself, more if you hire help.
- Insurance (general liability, and directors & officers) once you have activities or a board.
The Operations & Compliance Suite tracks every recurring deadline and fee so nothing lapses.
Plan the money side properly
The Operations & Compliance Suite keeps your filings, fees, and renewals on track; the Nonprofit Formation gets you formed in the first place.
See the suites →
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