Nonprofits: Starting a Nonprofit

Generally, starting a nonprofit involves taking some or all of the following steps:

• File articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State
• Convene a meeting of the board at which by-laws are adopted
• Apply to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for Federal, tax-exempt status
• Obtain any required municipal or State operating permits/licenses
• Register a DBA (Doing Business As) name with the County
• Register with the State Comptroller's Office to receive exemption from State taxes

It is important to have your application for tax-exempt status and other legal documents reviewed by an attorney. Reading the Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page at the Office of the Texas Secretary of State is also recommended.