How to Start a Nonprofit Organization

[@bdogfilms]

This was fantastic. I can't thank you enough for the breakdown. I'm at the beginning stages and I feel so empowered by this.

[@Aplos]

Glad to hear that!

[@peterharper9703]

So pursue the passion and the money will come; pursue the money the passion will go....

[@insertyourfeelingshere8106]

Remove the first word this comment would be so much better

[@ctran9876]

Amen!

[@jeanniekay-lacymckay7028]

Great comment, even so.

[@simoneder8135]

Many thanks, I been tryin to find out about "professional home organizer rates" for a while now, and I think this has helped. Have you ever come across - Xanmily Yonandon Finder - (just google it ) ? Ive heard some super things about it and my brother in law got amazing success with it.

[@imonikamilah1635]

Thank u

[@patDonahoe]

This was by far the best video on starting a non-profit I’ve ever seen!

[@e5969]

I am thankful for people like you. Our country needs smart and honest people not opportunists. Very enlightening upload. God bless, B.

[@Aplos]

Thank you, Noah!

[@accountspayable6093]

Thanks for sharing! It's a blessing to start a ministry with the right tools!

[@Aplos]

You are welcome!

[@BeautifulSouls]

We Are About To Receive Our 501 (c)(3) Super Excited :-) Thanks For Your Video :-)

[@Aplos]

Congrats on your 501 (c) (3)! What other topics would you like us to cover?

[@BeautifulSouls]

@@Aplos would like to reach out to you on zoom in January if you would like to connect :-) let us know we are just getting familiar with everything right now

[@ashleylee8797]

Hi, I would like to set up a non profit organization and doing this myself seems overwhelming! Did you help people set up a non profit organization? Also how long does it usually take get your organization approved in California? Thank you!!

[@gborowme]

Thank you for doing this video, I have to listen to you few times to get all that you are teaching us about this very important topic, nonprofit. I am starting my first one, my mother was bleeding I went to the hospital of Sierra Leone, Freetown no diagnostic machines. I am a Registered Nurse in Los Angeles. I cannot see another person go to the hospitals of Sierra Leone and be sent home to die. I am advocating for medical screening and diagnostic machines, I need your guidance. Thank you very much

[@rugiatujalloh4115]

Abibatu Bangura i am really sorry to hear this! I am also from Sierra Leone and i live in MD. i am interested in the mental health in Salone!

[@gborowme]

Rugiatu Jalloh I volunteered at kissy krass yard as we call it. This was right after the rebel war. I wanted to have the feel of psych. I worked with Dr Nahib the only psych Doctor in Sierra Leone’s apart from our traditional doctors. Let us go try knowing about mental health and let us share what we have learnt in the western world. The journey of investigating will be fun. Bye me sister

[@petstv4life293]

that's unbelievable! So happy to hear your advocating for something you feel isn't right! You go girl!

[@tripptizzy]

👑Flower You Are TEIMTRIPP 💜 📲#teimtripp

[@marimayberry8877]

This is exactly everything I’ve read so far, but somehow because you’ve explained it so clearly it has processed better than it did when I read it. Thank you!

[@Aplos]

I'm glad it helped!

[@SoulOfTruth]

There is a lot to be said about what’s going on in the community with black lives matter but to change anything we must also change .I plan on starting a nonprofit called “Train the 9” were we will invest in helping those out of poverty struck areas pay for the 120$ police test and pass physical test required here in Washington. I believe there must be more diversity in our communities law enforcement. If anyone has any helpful info we are all ears and always open to new great minds to support.

[@Aplos]

That's a great cause. Good luck! For useful information about starting and operating a nonprofit, I would recommend our blog www.aplos.com/academy/nonprofit/ and www.501c3.org/blog/.

[@SoulOfTruth]

Aplos thank you I definitely will!

[@jackelliott7853]

I’m gonna create a biker gang against sexual assault to help victims overcome there trauma

[@worldunited4903]

Heck yes!!!!!

[@jackelliott7853]

Katherine Nilsen nvm apparently yo everyone I know I’m a nobody so yea another life ruined

[@justpeache.5274]

Gaming Star that’s really dang wholesome. Good luck :)

[@jobie3125]

Noice

[@gavinistheawesomest]

That’s... silly... seriously.. I mean, who the fuck ISN’T against sexual assault.. what’s the next big idea? Pro clean drinking-water? Pro air?😂

[@richasay9077]

The last statement is so critical!! Great video guys!!!

[@Aplos]

Thank you, Rich!

[@ellenburton8684]

This is great information. Thank you for sharing. I feel empowered enough to try to start my journey with making a difference for my community and the surrounding areas in my County

[@Aplos]

Glad to hear that, Ellen. You can do it!

[@jikysevitepasaje1673]

Very well explained. Thank you very much for all the detail. I will follow through.

[@Aplos]

You are very welcome. You may enjoy our Academy, where you can learn more about fund accounting, fundraising, donor management, and more. Check it out here: hubs.ly/H0mx_DD0

[@ashnipabley1023]

im kind of confused. Do I NEED a board right off the bat like you are suggesting? i have heard of non profits that dont have boards until 5-10 years in

[@ammim6797]

Aashni Pabley I was wondering the same thing

[@ashnipabley1023]

Amber M. Im from texas and i found out that you are required to have at least three board members but still unsure if I need them right when i file

[@TheAriesantana]

What if I do not have a board to support this idea? Can I do it alone while I recruit?

[@Aplos]

It's a legal requirement to have a board since the beginning. You can recruit among friends and neighbors, professional and business contacts, local nonprofit support organizations, and community outreach programs.

[@cagman101]

Aplos, Thank you for posting this information for community leaders to utilize! The concept of creating a non-profit sounds marvelous till you actually try to complete the business requirements to create one. You have to be willing to navigate a sea of paper work and policies.

[@Christina_360]

Do you by chance do any kind of private one on one coaching? I want to start a non-profit and I have NO CLUE how or where to start. I am a full-time student and full-time single mom, so sitting on the computer for hours researching how to do this has been causing me to fall behind in housework AND schoolwork 😖 I am a new subscriber of yours and have already watched a few videos. Very informative! Thank you so much for the quality content!

[@Rare_Chef]

When I filed my articles of incorporation it wouldn't let me move forward unles I said I didn't want to file a 501c3. I have both the EIN and the articles of incorporation. How can I change the problem with the Secratary of states paperwork since I do want to file a 501c3.

[@gcrump9148]

Thanks for explaining this process in a very down-to-earth fashion!

[@GigiKiggs]

This was very informative. I didnt have a clue how I would start my nonprofit. Now I feel like I have somewhat of a blueprint. Does this company offer support to those who still need extra help in starting a nonprofit?

[@Aplos]

Thank you! This organization specializes in getting nonprofits up and running www.501c3.org/. Highly recommend it!

[@royallines6737]

God bless you, bro. Very helpful. How much does it cost without using a lawyer?

[@Aplos]

Thank you! The final cost varies by state. You'll need to file Articles of Incorporation (Secretary of State Offices usually charge $100 to $250 for administrative and filing fees, depending on the state in which the business is incorporating), then you'll need to file a tax-exempt application (the user fee for Form 1023 is $600 and the user fee for Form 1023-EZ is $275). So your cost will be somewhere between $375 and $850.

[@thuglife6588]

Is having a board necessary?

[@tylerhornacek9184]

Thug Life just highly recommend

[@BossonaBudget]

Yes, you have to have a board as a nonprofit. The state you incorporate the organization in will have specifics on how many are required to be on the Board and required officers.

[@yemamamas9895]

Aplos, do you have a written checklist with all these things??? WANT IT! :D Thanks

[@Aplos]

Hi Yema! We actually do:) You can download our startup kit here: hubs.ly/H0mx-jn0

[@Bless-m1z]

Do these guidelines applied to all states?

[@Aplos]

While the federal process looks mostly the same regardless of where your nonprofit is based, state requirements vary greatly. Here is a great resource to see state by state requirements www.501c3.org/state-nonprofit-guide/

[@lindamora7]

Can you establish the Corp online vs going to the sos?

[@GreyTide]

Is it possible to form a non-profit as an individual without a board?

[@Aplos]

Unfortunately, Grey, all nonprofit organizations need a board.

[@bayalowe3483]

I think I might start a non profit organization for women and kids with abusive fathers although I do have a while to go I'm still a kid.

[@AmberMelanieSmith]

You can make an impact at any age!

[@videocreator970]

The other commentor is correct, you can make an impact at any age! Look to see if there are any women's shelters in your area, volunteering at these facilities not only immediately helps those who you are seeking to help but gives you an invaluable experience that will be your greatest asset when starting your own non-profit

[@daisyluna2261]

I would love to do something like this mostly aimed at kids to have a safe place to go when the family gets too abusive

[@marshahilton200]

So what if it's just me starting out with a non for profit organization? I'm not necessarily needing tax exempt status but can i still be classified as a non-profit organization? And once I grow more and add people on can I file for exempt status later?

[@Aplos]

Generally, organizations required to apply for recognition of exemption must notify the Service within 27 months from the date of their formation to be treated as described in section 501(c)(3) from the date formed.

[@voluntarycke]

We already have a non profit organisation and are looking for grants. How do we do about it

[@thesportstalkwithjr7876]

Is there a background check involved to start your own organization

[@justpeache.5274]

John Randall why does it matter to you 👀

[@katerynayergina443]

quick question, if non profit I want to start is to help outside the country. Do I still take same steps?

[@sarkazm69]

Wow, this was so informative! Thank you! I have a million questions! Once you sign power over to the board, what is your position/place? Can i make myself a board member? Also, if the 1023 is not immediately approved and you have to go through the 5 year review, are you considered a non profit? Are donors able to claim donations?

[@lotusofcontrol5979]

+

[@sakoto61]

question: My NGO will be oversea. So I wanted to know, is the Article of Incorporation only specific to establishing NGOs in the U.S?

[@Aplos]

Hi Serwa. Thank you for your question! We would recommend you to seek advice from a local counsel in the country of operations to find out about all the regulations. Where are you planning to establish your NGO?

[@sakoto61]

@@Aplos Aright I will consider that thank you very much. I plan to establish it in villiages in Ghana, West Africa.

[@MsMiscelaneous]

Hello Serwa was also thinking of starting a non profit to perform in ghana... just wondering if you could offer any advise from your experience as far as setting it up.. were you able to connect with officials in Ghana?

[@jasonbaggins8442]

My sister and I planning on starting a non-profit to help kids in our area. We aren't planning on it being super large right now. Will we still need to do all the board steps?

[@COLLEYJ25]

Im not an expert, but I think YES. Just a formality. You want a paper trail.

[@baoyi7534]

Thank you for sharing the knowledge. May I ask if a person need to be an American or a permanent resident in us to register a nonprofit organisation?

[@Aplos]

This is a great question, Bao! When it comes to legal requirements it is best to consult with specialists. Check out Group Foundation www.501c3.org/blog/. They have great resources about legal compliance.

[@kyledawson4535]

Can you still have control of your non for profit?

[@malikdamartian6863]

Very good question because I want to know as well? @Aplos

[@ralphybillofrights7364]

According to what he said your handing over control to the board in the board meeting like the by laws and draft minutes

[@ashleyrosas323]

How long does this usually take when following this process?

[@Ahsoka501st]

It takes a can up to several weeks to initially form the corporation. It takes another 2-12 months for the IRS to approve your corporation as a 501(c)3 nonprofit.

[@rachelnacarino415]

hello can anybody tell me if you need to be a legal person in the us in order to form it?

[@Aplos]

Thank you for your question, Rachel. I'd recommend to seek a legal advice. This organization can be a good place to ask www.501c3.org/501c3-services/start-a-501c3-nonprofit/

[@ReginaldPriceSkillions]

earned a sub for the no b.s. explanation so rewarding

[@Blackfilmguild]

Can you create a non profit as one person?

[@willtorres7250]

Did you find out?

[@eddiejoeplebani497]

So I dont understand? I went and gave you my email address so I could get your kit and down loaded it unzipped it and there wasn't anything in there?!? Does it not work on android? Can I get a little assistance here? Thank you kindly

[@megandhingra3449]

Does anyone know if the IRS form 1023-EZ is good?

[@malikdamartian6863]

Very good question because i want to know the answer to this as well

[@sethviticus1651]

Is there anyway to start a non profit organization without a board? I don't want to share the decision making with anyone else.

[@Aplos]

Unfortunately, there isn't. It is a legal requirement for a nonprofit to have a board of directors.

[@NiquayShaiann]

Do you have to have a board?

[@Aplos]

That's a great question, Candidly! Yes, you do need to have a board. It's a legal requirement for a nonprofit to have a board of directors.

[@somarotaredil]

hi, a viewed your video, just want to ask if, the non profit organization in outside the us, and will just be a branch out here in california, do you know what are the steps to be taken of. Thank you for your immediate reply..

[@Aplos]

Hi Somar! Steps can vary based on the country where your nonprofit will be based. I would advise contacting a local specialist. When it comes to the US-based nonprofit formation steps, this organization can give you a great advice www.501c3.org/contact-us/

[@lucybaugh2448]

Thank you for taking the time and making this video. It was helpful and I now feel I have a better understanding of what is required to start a Non-Profit Organization. Thanks again!

[@destiny3354]

How do you create a board of people when starting your non profit with little to no money? +Aplos

[@yepthatsmebby]

Destiny Long did you ever receive an answer on this question?

[@TotemWarfare]

To answer all the people asking if their nonprofit organization can have just 1 person on your Board of Directors. The IRS requires a nonprofit organization to have a minimum of 3 board members if you're applying for tax-exempt status. You also need to check with your state to see what they determine makes a legitimate board of directors. It doesn't look credible to the IRS or possible benefactors if a nonprofit only has one employee/one member of it's BOD. Especially if that one person is the founder of the nonprofit.

[@randyk4689]

I am a Canadian citizen and want to start my not for profit but run it in the usa and the board of directors that follow in alignment with my vision are globally located. Does one need to be a usa citizen? florida is where I want to start this incorporation

[@aaronwoodman8016]

Can you mail it to the security of state?

[@Aplos]

The instructions can vary based on the State. Go to the official website of your Secretary of State snd look for "filing option". For example, these are filing instructions for California: the completed form/document, along with the applicable filing fee, can be delivered to our Sacramento office: (1) by mail; (2) dropped off at our public counter along with a separate non-refundable $15 special handling fee; or (3) dropped off at our public counter using our pre-clearance and/or expedited filing services.

[@MsMiscelaneous]

So after making sure the name of my potential non profit is available, do I register the name before filing the articles of incorporation OR does placing the name on the form automatically present it to be registered and so on? Thanks

[@1theanswer1]

As I understand it, you can chec with your state to see if the name is taken. And then you can place 60 day hold on the name. The fee in California is $10 for the hold.

[@danielstark2726]

I am having serious writers block. I'm trying to write a cover letter for A non profit organization intended on helping Young family's and elderly with the associated cost of home repairs and volunteer base worker's to do the work. But I keep drawing a blank no matter how many videos I watch. I continue to draw a blank when trying to express how much it will do and how much it is truly needed.

[@Ccsh12]

Daniel Stark Take some time to be by yourself away from anything blocking your concentration and ask god to help you write the words that are running through your head!

[@Linux333]

Think of pricing - the people with no idea are getting ripped off. You should have a mentor there to help them spot a rip off versus a good deal. Ultimately, some people would benefit more working as apprentice or assistant.

[@vincentjoyce455]

Concise. Well stated and informative. I am starting a Veteran nonprofit and had not a clue. Your presentation here was spot on with getting me started. Thank you very much.

[@EmitchComedy]

This was helpful! Thank you

[@jessiedaniels6500]

What if I already have a EIN for another business? Would I still have to get another one for a non profit?

[@anthonybrooks9859]

Jessie Daniels yes different books

[@scotsnyder6486]

Thank you for taking the time to produce this very informative video.

[@kyledawson4535]

Do you need a board

[@ivantenorio1300]

Yes you do

[@DT3TheBoonMan]

Why do i have to give up my organization??? Why cant i be on the board???...

[@eventstephen]

Can the directors, president, vice, secretary.... also be board members? I don't want to give the power to make decisions solely to the board, do I?

[@uncoverthetruth6171]

I really needed this video, it's so great! It's very like step by step and understandable, thank you so much!

[@Aplos]

You are very welcome! If you want more information you can download my free nonprofit startup kit here www.startanonprofit.net/

[@DT3TheBoonMan]

Im working on a NonProfit security and community service organization

[@elmehdielabbar]

Morocco isn't eligible?

[@DancinFool]

I need his notes.

[@ctran9876]

Or we can create our own. HOWEVER I do agree with you, those notes would be nice :D

[@tavita]

What are the benefits?

[@bnqw]

well you don’t personally profit from it as it is a non-profit organization however the purpose is to raise money and awareness for the cause your organization is advocating for, in that way it’s extremely beneficial relative to a lot of other ways of advocating for a cause.

[@AmericanTravelers]

I feel informed for the most part in regards to this process. Is there a follow up video u can do. Certain facts helpful hints u can add to this video... thanks

[@Aplos]

Sure! We are planning to make a follow-up video soon. Is there anything specific that you would like us to highlight in there?

[@dinohudson1432]

Be a whole lot better if you would have used the white boards for step by step kinda thing

[@Aplos]

Thank you, Dino, for the suggestion. We will keep it in mind for future videos. We have a complementary step by step guide "How To Start A Nonprofit". You can download it for free here: hubs.ly/H0mx-jn0

[@dangeloamori3175]

Amazing video! Thanks Tim for making the process and checklist easy. So much valuable information in 20 mins 🙌🏽🙌🏽🙌🏽

[@Aplos]

You are welcome! What other topics would you like me to cover?

[@bld93561]

so the non profit i am starting i went through legal zoom. there will be no employees. and as it stands no donations unless during a fundraiser which will not be any time in the near future. do i need to be considered a corporation if it is only me? legal zoom did ask me alot of these questions and my name is the only name on everything.

[@willtorres7250]

What happened, I'm in the same boat.

[@randotv7076]

Hi, can we connect so i can share my ideas with you as i am willing to start a non profit organisation.

[@Aplos]

Hi Rando! Thanks for watching my video.I don't host private consultations at the moment, put I creates a kit that can help you with starting a nonprofit! You can find it here: www.startanonprofit.net/

[@lesismore2019]

I guess I'm not understanding the part about turning over control to a board. If I start a non-profit to help people, why would I take myself out of it.

[@Aplos]

Thank you, Lesismore, for your question. There are legal, ethical, and practical reasons to build a board when a nonprofit is created. This article has a good explanation: www.bridgespan.org/insights/library/boards/why-do-you-need-a-board

[@peaceandlove5214]

I want to start NGO to link American universities or other departments with Middle East and North African universities/departments to bring US experiences to mentioned countries in fields like health,education and agriculture. I will come to USA to get my Master degree but I think I need mentors. Any Ideas? Thanks for the videos..

[@achesontrading427]

aren't nonprofits exempt from property & sales taxes too in all 50 states?

[@midnightmarauder6534]

Who can be on the board? Could I have ppl I trust like an old teacher or friend

[@hnnhwasxhere]

What is the application we would need to register or reserve our name, and where would we find that application?

[@hayeshove1723]

do i get an ein for llc than another for non profit or do i file for a non profit one off the bat?

[@justinhoernschemeyer8724]

Hey man really well said. Thanks

[@Aplos]

My pleasure!

[@cynthiagarey-ousley6139]

I'm in the process of getting my Nonprofit. How do I go about getting Organization to become partnership with me?

[@Linux333]

Cynthia Garey-ousley reach out to them

[@cosmicbuddhi8029]

For what country is this?

[@ReginaldPriceSkillions]

Extremely helpful how do i get in touch i may need your help

[@MrsTip2u]

This REALLY helped!! Thank you!

[@Aplos]

Glad it helped!

[@MrsTip2u]

@@Aplos Yes! Quick question..Can the initial incorporator also be the first board president? Or does that look like a conflict of interest when getting approval from the IRS, State, etc ,

[@TimGoetz]

Malea Howard Yes, the incorporation can be the first board president. The idea is that at its creation, it is created by a person (the incorporation) and that person needs to hand over control to a body (group of board members). Totally fine for the incorporator to be President on that starting governing body... the objective will still be met - the entity is now in the hands of a group rather than a single person. If you haven’t yet, look for “Nonprofit Incorporator Minutes”. These are the first board minutes where a group is adopted as the board and the incorporator gives up control to that board. You are on the right track!

[@MrsTip2u]

@@TimGoetz Wow! Ok thank you!!! 👏🏽👏🏽

[@gundamjedi475]

Is it possible to have only one person on the board?

[@Imansportfolio]

Gundam Jedi I’m not sure it normally it should be an organizational structure

[@j1jh002]

Thank you very much! This is exactly what I needed!

[@sagalabdullahi4476]

Some communities its hard to convince the ,that the organization is nonprofitable . they keep saying your getting a profit somewhere else so how can I convince them.?

[@lindamora7]

Can't I just establish a non profit entity from the start?

[@Aplos]

Unfortunately, no. You'll need to create a corporation, and then you're gonna make it nonprofit by filing 1023.

[@imonikamilah1635]

This video guided me! Thank you

[@Aplos]

We are glad it helped!

[@queenajiboye]

Hello, thank you for the video. Can the people on the board be in another country?

[@kodihasson5784]

are churches property tax exempt?

[@twhiz7580]

Thank you, Tim that information was the best I heard step by step really really helpful now I can get my non-profit going.

[@Provadenz]

Extremely helpful information. Thank you!

[@reneedouyon6980]

I have done all that by myself, learning as I go along. I completed all the steps you talk about. Now what? I dont have the funds to do what I will like to do to help others.

[@marcocastillo3274]

Great video .. thank you Tim .. Im stariting one in Mexico, I know its a whole diferent process but still this info helped me alot .. blessings

[@dustinmartiandotcom]

THIS WAS SO HELPFUL THANK YOU

[@Heyimthai]

I’ve started the first step and chose the domain. I’ve created my website via wix. What if I don’t have any money? Will the next steps cost me a lot?

[@Aplos]

Hey Priscilla! We put together a Nonprofit Startup Kit - It's totally free and it will walk you through the steps of creating a nonprofit. You can check it out at Startanonprofit.net. The cost comes in when you file your 1023 with the IRS which is one of the last steps you'll need to take.

[@ctran9876]

Good job girl- I hope these last 9 months have been good to you, and if not, jump back in it! All the best!

[@JoseCruz-ln9qw]

Very informative and helpful! Thank you!!

[@UrvishPatel]

Hello we are doing the process for education and research but we need some help. How can I contact you?

[@ahlaunatrent4586]

Thank you so much! This really helped our Team!

[@mandycruz78]

Is it easier to hire a lawyer for assistance?

[@ivantenorio1300]

Potentially

[@jillbevans6649]

Ok I think I missed a step? I’m writing my bylaws and started my biz plan. I registered online with the Secretary of State and received my ein# from the irs. I don’t believe I wrote a letter of articles of incorporation... if I didn’t how did I get an ein? Is it possible to fill the articles of incorporation out online? I’m in TN if that is relevant.

[@TimGoetz]

The Articles of Incorporation are what you file with the Secretary of State. If you are 'incorporated' in your State, then I bet you did do that step already. I bet when you registered online with the SoS, you actually completed the articles of incorporation. Some places need the stamped copy of the articles of incorporation (like banks to open a bank account). If I were you, I'd try going to your Secretary of State website to see if you can do a lookup of your organization and/or order a copy of your stamped Articles. Hope that helps.

[@inchristwestandministry5741]

Thank you! This was helpful for me!

[@ashleyj4159]

This is awesome information! Thanks