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Starting a Nonprofit

Starting a Nonprofit?

If you are considering starting a nonprofit organization, here are several steps you can take.

Preparation:

  1. Read Get Ready Get Set (PDF)
  2. Read Legal Responsibilities of Your Nonprofit (PDF)
  3. Read How to Form a Nonprofit Corporation in California
    by Anthony Mancuso (Nolo Press, 2007)
    The book walks you through the process of becoming a nonprofit organization in California, and includes information on how to get the necessary forms.
    • Available at the Center's Nonprofit Resource Library.
    • Also available for purchase online from Amazon.com.
  4. Read other books about starting a nonprofit, including:
    Starting and Running a Nonprofit Organization
    Starting and Managing a Nonprofit Organization: A Legal Guide
  5. Attend workshops in your area.
    Planning Workshops at Community Partners.
    How to form a charitable tax-exempt nonprofit corporation at Public Counsel

    For additional information, visit The Foundation Center FAQ

Forms:

  1. Get forms for incorporation from the California Secretary of State
    Forms and general information is available online or from your regional office.
    Overview of laws in California
    Sample articles of incorporation
  2. Get forms for tax-exempt status from the IRS
    Forms and general information is available online as well or from your local office.
    Publication 4220, Applying for Tax Exempt Status
    Publication 557, Tax Exempt Status of your Organization
    Publication 4221, Compliance Guideline
    Typical errors made in filing

Legal Assistance:
Professional assistance from an attorney is recommended before filing.

  1. Public Counsel
    Please review their services and requirements for assistance.
  2. Legal Aid Foundation of Los Angeles
    Please review their services and requirements for assistance.
  3. Referrals from the Center for Nonprofit Management

    William Ramseyer, Attorney at Law
    626-578-0602 (p)

    Kent E. Seton, Attorney
    310-557-1923 (p), This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it

Additional Assistance:

  1. Service Corps of Retired Executives
    They work with nonprofit organizations with their 501(c)3 status.