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How to Start an Arizona Nonprofit Corporation
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Arizona is home to the stunning Grand Canyon and a diverse population, providing plenty of business opportunities for new entrepreneurs. The state’s many programs to support nonprofits help them succeed and grow.
As of 2024, Arizona is home to 29,170 nonprofit organizations that help better the community.
Nonprofits can impact the community in many different ways. The Arizona Animal Welfare League (AAWL) rescues and rehabilitates animals, while the Circle The City organization provides healthcare to people experiencing homelessness.
When creating your Arizona nonprofit, your primary mission should align with the needs of the locals.
How do I incorporate a nonprofit in Arizona?
Nonprofits’ primary focus is helping people during their time of need. If you want to run a nonprofit and assist the community, this guide will help you incorporate in Arizona.
Choose a name for your nonprofit
The name you choose for your nonprofit needs to reflect your overall purpose while being different from all other companies in Arizona.
Arizona allows business owners to reserve a name for 120 days for a fee of $45 as of 2024, giving them time to complete the rest of the process without risking losing the name.
Appoint a board of directors
All nonprofits in Arizona need a board of directors with at least one member to help run the company. These directors must be willing to put the nonprofit’s interests above their own.
Filing the Articles of Incorporation
All nonprofits in Arizona will be required to file the Articles of Incorporation. It includes information about the organization and its mission. As of 2024, this document has a filing fee of $40 or $75 if expedited. Once the document is filed and accepted, the government will recognize your company as officially created.
Make bylaws for your nonprofit
Creating bylaws for your company is a requirement in Arizona. Bylaws describe how the owners will govern and operate the company, helping to prevent arguments or confusion and keep the business running smoothly.
Receive your Employer Identification Number (EIN)
Your nonprofit needs an EIN from the IRS to complete a nonprofit organization’s setup. This number allows nonprofit owners to apply for tax-exempt status, open a business bank account, and file taxes. The ability to do these helps businesses maintain their legal standing and saves money.
Apply for Federal Tax-Exempt status
Did you know nonprofit organizations are not automatically exempt from taxes? They must file Form 1023-EZ or Form 1023 to apply for this status.
Form 1023-EZ requires nonprofits to fall under specific qualifications to be approved. To check eligibility, view the Eligibility Worksheet at the bottom of Form 1023-EZ.
As of 2024, the application fee for these forms ranges from $275 for Form 1023-EZ to $600 for Form 1023. If approved, your nonprofit will be exempt from federal taxes and can accept tax-deductible donations.
Obtain necessary permits and licenses
Nonprofit organizations may need specific permits or licenses to operate in Arizona. Required permits can include business licenses, event permits, building permits, and charitable solicitation licenses. These permits allow the nonprofit to hold fundraisers or events for charity.
Nonprofits must register with the Arizona Department of Law to accept money from donors.
Let MaxFilings navigate the complexities of incorporation for you.
Trust in our expertise to ensure a seamless process from start to finish. Choose MaxFilings today and take the first confident step toward your nonprofit’s success.
Get Started With MaxFilingsWhat is the benefit of being a nonprofit in Arizona?
Incorporating a nonprofit in Arizona offers many benefits to help your organization grow and succeed.
- Access to grants and funding: Nonprofits in Arizona can apply for local, state, and national grants. There are many programs available to these businesses. The Community Foundation for Southern Arizona gives nonprofits over $10 million annually.
- Tax benefits: Nonprofits can apply to be exempt from certain taxes, saving your organization money. These savings allow more funds to go towards supporting your cause.
- Community support: Arizona’s culture and government strongly support nonprofit organizations. Many people in Arizona want to help and support nonprofits by volunteering, donating, and contributing to the cause.
Start a business in Arizona
Which business structure offers the greatest advantages for incorporation within the state of Arizona? Check out our guide.
Arizona C Corp Formation
Form your Arizona C corp easily with MaxFilings. Get the perks of limited liability, great tax breaks, and easy capital access.
Arizona S Corp Formation
Form your Arizona S corp effortlessly with MaxFilings. Gain tax advantages, limited liability protection, and seamless fundraising.
Arizona LLC
Formation
Launch your Arizona business with ease. MaxFilings simplifies LLC formation, offering limited liability protection and valuable tax benefits.
Arizona Nonprofit Formation
Incorporate your Arizona nonprofit effortlessly with MaxFilings. Assess the costs, benefits, and potential community implications.
Filing the Articles of Incorporation in Arizona costs $40, or $75 for expedited processing. Nonprofits must also file an annual report for $10 to $45. To be tax-exempt, you can file Form 1023 for $600 or Form 1023-EZ for $275. Other fees may vary.
Are you interested in incorporating a nonprofit in Arizona? We can guide you through the process with our simple and convenient incorporation options, making the entire process a breeze.
MaxFilings offers a 100% free basic business formation package; you’ll just pay any state fees. We will throw no hidden costs or surprise charges your way.
Our professionals will prepare and file your Articles of Incorporation for you. As a bonus, we will provide you with a year of free registered agent services.
Are you ready to take the first step?
Let us help you form your Arizona nonprofit.
At MaxFilings, we are committed to supporting you every step of the way.
