Starting a Nonprofit Organization in Indiana
Before starting a nonprofit corporation in Indiana, you must cross-check all the factors and be guided by the steps.
- Research and Planning
- Choose a Name for the Nonprofit
- Appoint Members and Managers
- File Certificate of Formation
- Apply for Tax-Exempt Status
- Fill Out: Name, Name Reservation, Number of Members
- Input Address
- Include: Summary of Nonprofit Formation; Private Foundation Pros and Cons; Form 1023-EZ FAQs
- Register with the Attorney General’s Office
- Understand Indiana Nonprofit Act Applies
- Consider Steps: Name; Suffix; Costs
How to Start Your Indiana Nonprofit
To start an Indiana 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, you’ll need to first register a nonprofit corporation with the state of Indiana, and then apply for tax-exempt status under section 501(c)(3) with the Internal Revenue Service.
Initial Filings and Additional Information
Below you will find information on initial filings required when starting a nonprofit organization in Indiana and ongoing compliance requirements.
- An application to start a nonprofit organization must be initiated by at least one incorporator/director.
- Under Indiana state code, a nonprofit must have at least three members.
- To stay in good standing with the state of Indiana, you will need to file a Business Entity Report with the Secretary of State. It is due every year by the end of the anniversary month that your organization was created.
Costs and Timeline
- How Much Does Starting a Nonprofit Cost?
- EIN: Free
- Articles of Incorporation: $50 if mailed, $30 online
- How Long Does It Take to Start a Nonprofit?
- It can take as little as a month or as long as six months. It all boils down to the 501(c) filing method.
Naming Your Indiana Nonprofit
Choosing a name for your organization is the first and most important step in starting your nonprofit corporation.
Filing Your Nonprofit Corporation
- Name Your Organization
- Follow the Naming Conventions
- File Articles of Incorporation