How Do You Start a Non-Profit Organization

Are you trying to start a non-profit that has a tax exempt status (so you don't have to pay income taxes on money raised or donated??) First you need to read the IRS guidelines to see what you would qualify under and apply for a tax exempt number. You would also have to file papers with the state (may differ depending on the state you are in-probably articles of incorporation. Many people secure the services of an attorney/CPA to start the process for them. good luck.

First and foremost you have to get a tax designation from the IRS...one that says you qualify for non profit status and no taxes.

Once you do that you can go about your business and do your charity work.

It depends. Go to your state's website and look to see if you need to form a 501c3 or if you can just start a NFP without a EIN number.

You only need tax exemption status if you are above a certain amount.

I've started two NFP. I asked a few people to be on a board, we wrote up by-laws, and then I filled out some paper work, collected signatures, and sent a check to the secretary of state.

First you get your EIN number, then you get your non profit status from the state, then you spend many hours filling out your 501c3 paperwork. You'll need a board of directors, budget projections for 5 years, by laws, and more. It's a mountain of work!