To start a nonprofit organization in Georgia, you will need to follow these legal steps:
- Choose a name for your nonprofit organization that is unique and not currently in use by another organization in Georgia. You can check the availability of a name by searching the Georgia Secretary of State's online business search.
- Draft and file articles of incorporation with the Georgia Secretary of State's office. These documents should include the name of your organization, its purpose, and the names and addresses of its initial directors. You can file the articles of incorporation online or by mail, and there will be a filing fee.
- Apply for a federal tax ID number (EIN) through the IRS. This number is necessary for tax purposes and to open a bank account for the organization.
- Apply for tax-exempt status with the IRS by filing IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ. This process can take several months and involves providing information about your organization's activities and finances.
- Register with the Georgia Secretary of State's office as a nonprofit corporation. This involves filing a form that includes the name of the organization, its purpose, and its officers and directors.
- Apply for any necessary licenses or permits, such as business licenses or permits for fundraising activities.
Limitations or exceptions to this advice may depend on the particular circumstances of your organization. For example, if your nonprofit organization will have employees, you will need to comply with additional requirements, such as obtaining workers' compensation insurance and complying with employment laws. Additionally, there may be specific laws or regulations that apply to certain types of nonprofit organizations, such as charities or religious organizations.
If you need further assistance with the legal steps of starting a nonprofit organization in Georgia, it is recommended that you consult with a licensed attorney who is familiar with nonprofit law in Georgia.
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