Loading...

Form Your Nonprofit Online
in as Few as 10 Minutes

Start your nonprofit with confidence. affordable. fast. simple.
  • Protect your personal assets from business debts or liabilities
  • We'll prepare and file all required documents with the Secretary of State
  • Raise capital through grants and begin accepting donations so you can start making a difference
image description
image description
image description

Starting a Nonprofit Online is Easy

Our three-step process will have your business up and running SwyftlyTM

image description

Tell us about your business

Our easy online form only takes 10 minutes. Complete this step and we’ll take it from there.

image description

We file the paperwork

Using the information you’ve provided, we prepare all required documents for incorporating your Nonprofit and file them directly with the Secretary of State.

image description

Receive your documents

Once your incorporation documents have been approved by the state, you will receive your completed Nonprofit package by mail.

Why Business Owners Choose Swyft Filings

Every day businesses from all over the nation choose Swyft Filings to form their business.
Here are a just a few of the reasons why so many owners choose us to help start their business.

Trusted and Experienced

Our Business Specialists will form your new business the correct way, saving you time and money by avoiding costly errors. Let us handle your business filings while you focus on growing your business.

Personal Customer Support

Each one of our customers is assigned a personal Business Specialist. Have a question? Just call your personal Business Specialist directly. No need to wait in a pool of phone calls.

Fast Turnaround Time

When you place your order through Swyft Filings, we can immediately start the process of forming your new business. Our processing times are some of the fastest in the industry.

Choose the Right Business Type

Compare the important differences of each business structure to decide
which one is right for your company.

What sets Nonprofits apart

The Nonprofit Corporation is a special type of business structure, which exists to provide certain benefits to organizations that have the main goal of serving the public. Much like with other formal business types, those who run Nonprofits are provided limited liability protection.

Why choose a Nonprofit?

  • Can accept donations
  • Potential tax-exempt status
  • Raise capital through grants
  • Personal asset protection
Plus our
  •  

    Llc

    C corp

    S corp

    Nonprofit

  • Protection
  • Limited liability protection
    image description
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    LLCs provide personal asset protection, which shields you from being personally liable for business debts.

    C Corps provide personal asset protection, which shields you from being personally liable for business debts.

    S Corps provide personal asset protection, which shields you from being personally liable for business debts.

    Owners have no personal asset protection, which makes them personally liable for business debts.

  • Managing Your Business
  • Flexibility in management
    image description
     
     
     
  •  

    LLCs must be member or manager managed according to the terms of the operating agreement. Member managed means the owners of the company manage the company. Manager-managed means the members (or owners) elect one or more managers to manage the company.

    C Corps are required to have shareholder elected directors who oversee and elect officers to run the day-to-day operations of the company. The business owner(s) can be the shareholder(s), the director(s) and officer(s).

    S Corps are required to have shareholder elected directors who oversee and elect officers to run the day-to-day operations of the company. The business owner(s) can be the shareholder(s), the director(s) and officer(s).

    The DBA owner may manage the business without restriction. Nonprofits are managed by their board of directors following the regulations set forth in their Bylaws.

  • Ease of ownership changes
    Varies
    image description
    image description
    Varies
  •  

    Changes in ownership of an LLC are dependent on the terms of the operating agreement.

    Ownership changes in a C Corp are easily made through the sell of stock to new or existing shareholders.

    Ownership changes in an S Corp are easily made through the sell of stock to new or existing shareholders.

    Nonprofits have no owners.

  • Perpetual existence
    Varies
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    The life of the LLC is dependent of the terms of the operating agreement. Its existence may be short term or perpetual that survive the death or transfer of the membership interests of the original founders.

    C Corps are separate entities that survive the death or transfer of stock of the owners and/or major shareholders.

    S Corps are separate entities that survive the death or transfer of stock of the owners and/or major shareholders.

    DBAs end upon closure of the company or the death of the owner. Nonprofits are entities that survive any change in their board of directors.Nonprofits are entities that survive any change in their board of directors.

  • Ongoing formalities
    image description
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    Depending on the state of incorporation, an LLC may be required to file an annual report and/or pay franchise fees.

    After formation, C Corps have many ongoing formalities such as writing bylaws, selecting directors, holding initial and annual shareholder meetings, and issuing stock.

    After formation, S Corps have many ongoing formalities such as writing bylaws, selecting directors, holding initial and annual shareholder meetings, and issuing stock.

    After formation, Nonprofits have many ongoing formalities such as writing bylaws, selecting directors, and seeking tax exempt status.

  • Ability to raise capital
    Varies
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    LLCs are not allowed to sell stock but may be able to raise capital via bank loans, from its members and various other avenues. Any equity to sales to third parties needs to be done in compliance with SEC regulations.

    C Corps may issue many types of stocks, which may be sold to an unlimited number of shareholders. Any equity sales to third parties needs to be done in compliance with SEC regulations.

    S Corps may issue one type of stock, which may be sold to a maximum of 100 shareholders. Any equity sales to third parties needs to be done in compliance with SEC regulations.

    Nonprofits may obtain bank loans, grants, venture capital, and tax-exempt donations. In some states, Nonprofits may sell stock.

  • Tax
  • Pass-through taxation
    image description
     
    image description
    image description
  •  

    LLCs are not taxed at the corporate level. Instead, all profit and losses are reported with the personal income taxes of each member.

    The income of the C Corp is taxed at the corporate level and then again at the shareholder level.

    S Corps are not taxed at the corporate level. Instead, all profit and losses are reported with the personal income taxes of each shareholder (owner).

    The income of Nonprofits is taxed at the corporate level unless they apply for and are granted tax-exempt status.

  • Double taxation
     
    image description
     
     
  •  

    LLCs are not taxed at the corporate level.

    The income of the C Corp is taxed at the corporate level and then again at the shareholder level.

    S Corps are not taxed at the corporate level.

    The income of Nonprofits is taxed at the corporate level unless they apply for and are granted tax-exempt status.

  • Tax Exempt
     
     
     
    image description
  •  

    LLCs are not eligible for tax-exempt status.

    C Corps are not eligible for tax-exempt status.

    S Corps are not eligible for tax-exempt status.

    The income of Nonprofits is taxed at the corporate level unless they apply for and are granted tax-exempt status.

  • State Filing Fees
  • State formation fees
    image description
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    LLCs are required to pay formation fees to the state. Fees will vary based on the state of incorporation.

    C Corps are required to pay formation fees to the state. Fees will vary based on the state of incorporation.

    S Corps are required to pay formation fees to the state. Fees will vary based on the state of incorporation.

    Nonprofits are required to pay formation fees to the state. Fees will vary based on the state of incorporation

  • Ongoing compliance fees
    image description
    image description
    image description
    image description
  •  

    Depending on the state of incorporation, reports and fees may be required.

    An annual report and franchise fees are generally due each year along with other reports and fees, which varies depending on the state of incorporation.

    An annual report and franchise fees are generally due each year along with other reports and fees, which varies depending on the state of incorporation.

    For Nonprofits this varies from state to state.

  •  

Advantages of Forming a Nonprofit

Nonprofits benefit from very unique advantages, making it easier for them to
impact positive changes in their communities and beyond.
POTENTIAL FOR TAX-EXEMPT STATUS

Nonprofits can receive state and federal exemptions from corporate income taxes (plus certain others) that other business structures must pay. A tax-exempt status isn’t immediately granted to Nonprofits, but will require specific steps to obtain it.

ORGANIZATIONAL PERPETUITY

A Nonprofit organization exists separately from those who manage and direct it. Because of this, the organization will continue to run even if the person who leads it leaves the business. The longevity of the business makes it much more attractive for donors who want their contributions to impact long-term goals.

PROTECTION FROM PERSONAL DEBTS AND LIABILITIES

Nonprofits are afforded the same limited liability protection as LLCs. This means that the personal assets of directors and officers are considered separate from the personal interest invested in the company. With this protection, debts and liabilities incurred are the responsibility of the business rather than its members

Are You Ready to Begin?

Launch your business today starting at $49 + state fees. See detailed pricing
We also offer a 2-Easy Payment Plan to help get your business up and running quickly.

  • What’s the main reason organizations choose to file as a Nonprofit?

    Nonprofits are unique in that they are able to raise capital through acquiring special grants, and that they can receive tax-exempt status. For charity organizations, or those focused on serving the greater good of their communities, it is usually the only logical choice of business structure.

  • Are there any restrictions on who can file to form a Nonprofit?

    There are no restrictions regarding who can form a Nonprofit organization.

  • What is "tax-exempt status" and how can your Nonprofit acquire it?

    As most Nonprofits are typically founded with the main goal of benefitting the general public, Nonprofits can become "tax exempt" entities. This means that they are free from paying a vast majority of the taxes that are levied on other types of organizations.

    However, Nonprofits are not granted tax-exempt status automatically upon formation. After the organization is successfully formed with its state, it must file Form 1023 with the IRS to receive tax-exempt status. There may also be some state-level filing required to become tax exempt at the state level, depending on where your organization is located.

  • Does Swyft Filings assist with helping my Nonproft receive “tax-exempt” 501(c)(3) status?

    Yes. Swyft Filings assists with filing 501(c)(3) applications with the IRS. Learn more here.

  • Are there a required number of individuals needed to form a Nonprofit?

    The typical rule is that Nonprofits must have at least three board members to receive tax-exempt status from the IRS. However, it is possible to form a Nonprofit with only one founder.

    Learn more about organizing your Nonprofit’s leadership structure, and other Nonprofit formation steps, in the Swyft Filings Learning Center.

  • What formal paperwork must be filed when forming a Nonprofit?

    A special set of documents called the Nonprofit Articles of Organization must be filed with the relevant state agencies in order to become formally recognized. The appropriate agency will change depending on where you are forming your organization. There may also be some fees or franchise taxes that must be paid during this process.

    A filing service such as Swyft Filings can take care of the required filings for a Nonprofit. This allows you to focus on developing and growing your new organization.

  • Is an attorney required during the Nonprofit filing process?

    An attorney is typically not required when starting any type of business or a Nonprofit organization. However, a business filing service such as Swyft Filings can help you streamline the formation process and save you a great deal of time and effort. If you are unsure of which business structure may be right for you, or you have questions regarding specific tax or organizational issues, it may be advisable to speak with an attorney or accountant before starting a new business.

  • How should I name my Nonprofit?

    Your organizations name must be unique and not deceptively similar to any other trademarked name or business. It is also required that your name not intentionally misrepresent the products or services you offer. For Nonprofits, most states require a signifier of your corporate status, such as “Company”, “Corporation”, “Incorporated”, or a relevant abbreviation to be added to your business name. Choosing a name for your Nonprofit is an important decision; it will be how you represent yourself the general public and to potential associates so take time to research and select a name that will accurately represent you and your business.

  • What are the different IRS classifications for Nonprofits?

    Although there are several Nonprofit classifications, the 501(c)(3) is by far the most common. This is the classification that religious organizations, scientific institutions, amateur athletic groups, charities, and animal and child cruelty prevention organizations would use. The other classifications for Nonprofit groups are rarely used and only apply to very specific types of organizations. If you are unsure of which type of classification may be right for you, or you have questions regarding specific options, it may be advisable to speak with an attorney before starting your Nonprofit corporation.

  • What are the “owners” of a Nonprofit officially called?

    Since Nonprofits cannot generate income (outside of regulated salaries) for any of their founders or workers, they do not have “owners” in the traditional sense. However, from a leadership standpoint, they are structured very similar to a corporation. They have a board of directors, who are responsible for making major decisions and electing officers. These officers are in charge of managing the organization’s day-to-day operations.

  • Where should I establish my new Nonprofit?

    It is possible to form a Nonprofit in any of the 50 states, as well as the District of Columbia. Many new Nonprofits do not realize that it is possible to form their organization in a state other than the one in which they live or operate. However, through a process called “foreign qualification”, it is possible and often advisable. If your Nonprofit operates only in a small area, it may be advisable to file within your state. The main reason for this is that states may require Nonprofits that foreign qualify to pay additional taxes and fees which can be a financial burden for the organization. There are also some logistical issues that are related to foreign qualification that may cause additional expenses.

    If your Nonprofit is large or operates on a large geographical scale, foreign qualification may be the best option. Each state has different tax and filing requirements so it may be advantageous for your company to foreign qualify.

  • Do all Nonprofits need a Registered Agent?

    All formal business entities, including Nonprofits, are required to have a Registered Agent on file with the state at all times. The agent may be an individual or company with a physical address located in the state of incorporation. Agents must be available at all times during standard business hours (9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday – Friday). The role of a Registered Agent is to receive any and all of communications from the government to the business. The agent’s name and address must be disclosed as part of the company’s public record.

    If you are foreign qualifying your business or wish to keep your contact information private, it may be wise to hire a professional Registered Agent service such as Swyft Filings. Our professional Registered Agent service ensures that your legal requirements will be fulfilled and that all communications will be relayed to your company in a timely manner.

  • Where can I find a reliable Registered Agent?

    Swyft Filings offers a professional Registered Agent service as well business filing services. Regardless of the state in which your business is located, we can provide you with Registered Agent services. Swyft Filings provides companies of all types and sizes an affordable solution that will ensure that they remain compliant with all Registered Agent requirements.

  • How can I start the Nonprofit incorporation process?

    The first step in establishing a new Nonprofit is to file Nonprofit Articles of Incorporation with the state in which you are establishing your organization. Once this has been completed, you will need to hold a documented organizational meeting with your initial board of directors. During this meeting you will need to adopt a written set of by-laws, approve formal resolutions establishing the organization’s initial financial accounts, and appoint officers. Please keep in mind that you will also need to apply for tax-exempt status with IRS.

BizCompareTM

View and compare the different types of business structures to help you understand the benefits of each.

Ready to Start Your Nonprofit?

Let's Get Started

Still have questions? We're here to help! Call (877) 777-0450 or Live Chat with us for real-time support.

Launch your Nonprofit starting at $49