How to Start a Non-profit in Illinois

To start a nonprofit in Illinois you need to select a name for your organization, draft the nonprofit's articles of incorporation, and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Here are some details on these steps and others:

• Select a name for your organization

The first step in this process is to choose a name for your non-profit organization. The name that you choose must be unique and different from other organizations that have registered names with the Illinois Secretary of State.

• Draft the nonprofit's articles of incorporation

You then must write your non-profit's articles of incorporation, this is a document that outlines your nonprofit organization's primary purpose, structure of governance, and other important information. You then need to pay a fee and file this document with the Illinois Secretary of State.

• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

The next step is to get federal and state tax IDs. Your employer identification number (EIN) is critical to starting and growing your nonprofit, as it helps with matters like opening a business bank account and paying taxes, although nonprofits remain exempt from many federal taxes.

• File for tax-exempt status with the IRS

Your nonprofit will have to meet certain requirements to receive tax-exempt status from the IRS. You can research the requirements on the IRS website and also apply there as well.

• Register with the Illinois Attorney General's Office

If your nonprofit organization plans on receiving donations or funding from the public, you must first register with the Attorney General's Office in your state and provide it with specific information about your nonprofit organization.

• Get the required permits and licenses

You might also need to get additional permits and licenses for your nonprofit organization. This depends on the specific activities your nonprofit plans on being involved in.

• Create a board of directors and bylaws

Lastly, your nonprofit needs a board of directors that can provide oversight for the organization. It is also advisable for you to create bylaws that delineate your organization's structure of governance, procedures, and protocols.