How To Start A Non Profit Organization In Tennessee
Some tennessee counties and municipalities may require charities that solicit in person to register prior to fundraising.
How to start a non profit organization in tennessee. Name your tennessee nonprofit. To create a 501 c 3 tax exempt organization first you need to form a tennessee nonprofit corporation. Filing for 501c3 status requires time and organization. It is important to pick a name that both aligns with your mission and follows the rules for naming in your state. These are the steps to take to incorporate your nonprofit.
When you start a 501c3 nonprofit organization you ll contribute something positive to your community your state your country and even the world. To start a non profit organization first figure out what cause you want to help or what problem you re trying to solve. 1 the name should be distinguishable from the name of any other entity on records of the office of secretary of state tennessee. For example you may want to help provide food for the homeless or help homeless people find jobs. In some cases it may be better to work with an existing organization and start a project under them or contribute to their existing projects.
In tennessee this document is filed with the tennessee secretary of state s office. Parks avenue 6th floor nashville tn 37243 1102. 615 741 2286 web site. To incorporate in tennessee. Most nonprofits are 501 c 3 organizations which means they are formed for religious charitable scientific literary or educational purposes and are eligible for federal and state tax exemptions.
Then you apply for tax exempt status. Remember to attach the summary of financial activities form. Tennessee department of state corporate filings 312 rosa l. It is the first thing most people will learn about your organization. Appoint a board of directors draft your bylaws with guidance from your board of directors.
Choose a business name make sure to check the state by state information on the various laws that apply to naming a nonprofit in your state. Starting a nonprofit organization in tennessee. The name you select for your nonprofit will establish its brand. Please visit sos tn gov charitable or call 615 741 2555 for more information. Steps for starting a nonprofit organization in tennessee step 1 deciding a name for the organization.