Starting Your 501(c)(3) Nonprofit
The first step is to apply with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for the official 501(c)(3) status. To get your nonprofit up and running, there are some standard fees you will need, and this cost ranges from $283 to over $700. They include expenses such as incorporation fees from $0 to $250 and 501(c)(3) fees of $600 or $275. The average processing time for Form 1023-EZ is about 2-4 weeks. By contrast, Form 1023 processing time is between 3 and 6 months.
Essential Steps for Nonprofit Formation
- Make sure you’re doing something the IRS considers charitable.
- Put together your board of directors and hold your first meeting.
- Incorporate as a nonprofit and apply for 501(c)(3) status from the IRS.
- Raise money from individuals and secure grant funding.
- Maintain strong systems for ongoing success.
A 501c3 is tax-exempt as deemed by the IRS as charitable. Nonprofit purposes relate to:
- Scientific
- Testing for public safety
- Literary
- Educational
- Fostering national or international amateur sports competition
- Preventing cruelty to children or animals.
Conduct an independent audit, even if not required, to ensure that money-making activities do not put your tax-exempt status at risk. Expand your reach and impact with creative fundraising ideas that don’t require volunteers.
Starting a Nonprofit in New Mexico
How much does it cost to start a nonprofit in New Mexico? Our 501(c)(3) formation packages start at $1,799 plus filing fees. What are you getting for that price? We prepare and file all the registrations needed to become a 501(c)(3) nonprofit.
Steps to Form a Nonprofit Corporation in New Mexico
- Research and Planning.
- Choose a Name for the Nonprofit.
Filing the Articles of Incorporation:
To start a domestic nonprofit corporation in New Mexico, you must file the Nonprofit Corporation – Articles of Incorporation. Within 10 business days after submitting your application to the New Mexico Secretary of State Department, you should receive a response. If your application is granted, you will receive your Articles of Incorporation.
To establish a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt nonprofit organization in New Mexico, first establish a nonprofit in the state and then apply to the IRS for 501(c)(3) status.
The filing of a formation document, which is typically referred to as Articles of Incorporation, is required to incorporate a charitable organization.