Nonprofit Start-Up Resources

Nonprofit Organization 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Process

Step 1

Determine if you are ready to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.startup-for-success

Step 2

Incorporate your nonprofit organization in the State of Colorado.

  • Develop Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation for your organization.
  • Register your nonprofit in the State of Colorado at the Secretary of State website.

Step 3

Apply for your Organization’s Employer Identification Number (EIN) with the Internal Revenue Service.

You can obtain an EIN online through the IRS website for free after completing a series of prompted questions.

Step 4

Determine whether you must file IRS Form 1023 (Application for Recognition of Exemption under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code) OR if you are eligible to file IRS Form 1023-EZ (the streamlined application).

To determine your eligibility to submit the streamlined application, complete the Form 1023-EZ Eligibility Worksheet in the Instructions for Form 1023-EZ.

Step 5

Obtain and complete a paper version of IRS Form 1023 OR complete IRS Form 1023 online (using the interactive guide) OR, if eligible, complete IRS Form 1023-EZ online. Complete your Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws and all necessary attachments.

Step 6

File the Form 1023, Articles of Incorporation, Bylaws and necessary attachments with the Internal Revenue Service.

  • The application fee is either $400 or $850 depending on your estimated annual organizational budget size.
  • The review and IRS approval process can take anywhere between 6 months and 18 months.

Form 1023 Assistance

CRC is pleased to provide information about area providers who help groups complete IRS Form 1023. This list has been provided to assist you in filling out paperwork required to start a nonprofit organization. Community Resource Center (CRC) does not assume responsibility for referrals. We also do not provide consulting services for any paperwork. Some organizations in the area that do offer this kind of consulting service include:

Legal Resources

For more information, please contact:

Lisa Duran
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