If your goal is to form a nonprofit, then you need to make sure you understand the laws that apply to that goal. Nonprofits are great businesses, usually because those who start them want to see a change happen in the world. There are steps to take before you can formally launch your business, though.
Following a simple list of steps is the best way to make sure you don’t miss anything when setting up your nonprofit. Here are three steps you need to take first when you’re getting started.
1. Choose a business name and register it
When you set up any kind of business, you need to have a business name. Choose the business name and check the availability. If you find that it is available, you are able to register your business’s new name right away.
2. Choose where you want to incorporate your nonprofit
Many choose to incorporate businesses in their home state but look into all the states and where you may have the best support for your business. Laws vary across state lines, so your attorney can be a great guide for choosing where to open and incorporate your nonprofit.
3. Create and sign the Articles of Incorporation
You’ll have to create the Articles of Incorporation, which is something your attorney can assist with. Then, file that with the Secretary of State and pay any filing fees.
These are the three basic steps to starting your nonprofit. There’s lots more to do, but getting these steps handled is a good start that can get your nonprofit on the track to success.
