How to Start a Church as a 501(C)(3)
- 1). File the appropriate paperwork to become a legal organization with your state government. These requirements and procedures can usually be found on your state's Department of State website. In the organizing documents, be sure to explain and limit your church's exempt purpose and include that the church's assets are permanently dedicated to the stated exempt purpose.
- 2). Complete and file IRS form 1023 and Schedule A, which can be obtained online at IRS.gov or requested by phone at 800-TAX-FORM. A user fee is required at the time this paperwork is filed. The fee is explained in the 1023 form and is based on the average annual gross receipts of the organization.
- 3). File paperwork within your state to obtain tax exempt status for your church. This may be required for your church to solicit contributions or to obtain tax exempt status for state taxes. The National Association of State Charity Officials has a list of state offices that regulate nonprofit organizations. (See link in Resources.)
Source...