How to Start a Nonprofit Organization in Pennsylvania 2024


Steve Bennett
Steve Bennett
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Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania

Establishing a nonprofit is kind of similar to forming a corporation in Pennsylvania. You can easily start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania as a limited liability company, a corporation, or any other type of business structure. Unlike for-profit businesses, nonprofits focus on addressing pressing social issues than profit-oriented businesses.

This article will guide you through the Dos and Don’ts of starting a nonprofit in Pennsylvania. LLCBuddy editors explain all the steps you must follow to form a corporation for your nonprofit organization. It must be noted that this page shared generalized steps to form a nonprofit in Pennsylvania. It is recommended to consult an attorney or hire a professional service.

What is a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania

Nonprofit organizations are legal entities that operate to serve public benefits and address community issues. Unlike for-profit organizations, nonprofits do not aim to generate any profit. The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) generally exempts nonprofit organizations from tax. However, based on the business entity structure, you will receive tax exemptions as a nonprofit.

In Pennsylvania, ensure you have a community issue to address before forming your nonprofit. It can generally be education, religion, charity, social service, or other social issues. Nonprofits do not pay taxes on the money they receive through fundraising programs, donations, or any charitable funding.

Types of Nonprofits in Pennsylvania

The first thing one has to decide is what type of nonprofit structure one wants. There are several types of nonprofits one can start. Here is a list of nonprofit types one can choose from-

  1. Nonprofit LLC
  2. Nonprofit Corporation
  3. Unincorporated Nonprofit

BOI Report Filing

According to the Corporate Transparency Act, every LLC, corporation, and other type of business that is registered with the Pennsylvania SOS or similar authority, must file the BOI report with FinCEN. From January 1, 2024, it is mandatory to file a BOI report for every business entity. In this report, LLCs have to share information about the beneficial owners (having equal or more than 25% share). LLC owners can file BOI reports online or offline.

Businesses in Pennsylvania that are created before January 1, 2024, should file their BOI report by January 1, 2025. Businesses that are created in 2024, must file the BOI report within 90 business days of finishing the formation process. Missing out on filing the BOI report may lead to a monetary penalty of $500/day.

How to Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania

Nonprofits are certainly different from for-profit organizations. The main focus of the organization is on social values rather than profit. The process of having a nonprofit in Pennsylvania is similar to forming any corporation in Pennsylvania. However, there are a few additional steps to follow.

Step 1: Develop Your Mission and Vision

Before you get into legal details, you need to define the purpose and goal of your organization clearly; this will go a long way in guiding your decisions as well as making it easy for you to explain your mission statement.

  • Pick out what specific cause or issue you want to address;
  • Define who you will target or help reach particular goals;
  • List down both what people should do within a short period and what they should achieve in the long term perspective;
  • Write a captivating mission statement.

Step 2: Name Your Nonprofit in Pennsylvania

Naming a business in Pennsylvania has a handful of regulations. If you start a corporation or an LLC in Pennsylvania, you must follow those regulations to name your nonprofit. The most important rule is to check if the name is available in Pennsylvania to use.

If you’re forming an LLC in Pennsylvania for your nonprofit organization, check out LLC naming guidelines in Pennsylvania. For the corporation regulations, read on how to start a corporation in Pennsylvania. As soon as the name is decided, you can reserve it with the Pennsylvania Secretary of State. You can also file DBA in Pennsylvania before you establish your nonprofit organization. DBA can be filed in two methods, by mail and in person.. The DBA filing fee in Pennsylvania is $70.

  • Online DBA Filing: There is no online filing available
  • Offline DBA Filing: For filing offline in Pennsylvania, you must send the accomplished DBA filing form to the Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, P.O. Box 8722, Harrisburg, PA 17105-8722 or drop it off in person at 401 North Street, Room 206, Harrisburg, PA 17120.
  • DBA Renew Time in Pennsylvania: Indefinite

Step 3: Appoint Initial Board Members

If you’re forming a corporation for your Pennsylvania nonprofit, it is required to appoint the initial board members. In Pennsylvania, you need at least One unrelated directors to start the organization. If you don’t choose a minimum of One directors, it will automatically become a member-managed corporation.

Step 4: Get Pennsylvania Registered Agent

This is a very important step for any business in Pennsylvania. The Registered Agent in Pennsylvania is a person who conducts all types of documentation between the State and your nonprofit organization. The Registered Agent must be from Pennsylvania, above 18 years of age, and must have legal rights to conduct business in the state. Several professional and business formation services offer registered agent services in all the states in the USA. It is better to hire a professional rather than being your own Registered Agent in Pennsylvania.

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Step 5: File Articles of Incorporation with Pennsylvania SOS

This is the most important step in forming a nonprofit corporation in Pennsylvania. File your Articles of Incorporation with the Pennsylvania Secretary of State. You can file your nonprofit corporation through two methods, online and by mail. Submit the details of your nonprofit corporation, like the name of the nonprofit, address, name and address of the registered agent, operation dates, directors’ details, and more information related to your company.

  • Online Incorporation: Create an account/Log in to the SOS site, get the online form, fill it, and submit online
  • Offline Incorporation: Send the form by mail to Pennsylvania Department of State, Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations, P.O. Box 8722, Harrisburg, PA 17105
  • Incorporation Fee in Pennsylvania: $125 for online and by mail filing

Hiring a professional service might be a wise idea here. Having a corporation is much more complex than forming an LLC. We recommend ZenBusiness as they are one of the top business service providers currently. They offer LLC formation at $0 in Pennsylvania.

Step 5.1: Write Company Bylaws

As soon as you file the formation documents, it is time for the company bylaws. The directors and board members must decide how the meetings, elections, voting, and other corporate activities will be held. These bylaws must comply with the Pennsylvania state law. It is similar to an LLC operating agreement in Pennsylvania for the LLC owners.

Step 6: Get an EIN in Pennsylvania

The next step is to obtain the EIN in Pennsylvania. The employer identification number (EIN) is required to conduct business in Pennsylvania. You will need to acquire the Pennsylvania EIN from the official IRS website. To obtain the EIN, submit your application to the IRS office either by mail or through their online platform. There is no associated cost for this process.

Step 7: Tax Exemptions for Your Nonprofit

When you start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania, you enjoy tax exemptions. As the nonprofits are not profit-oriented, they get a huge tax exemption from Federal and State authorities.

Federal Tax Exemption

You must submit Form 1023 to the IRS to file for federal tax exemption. This form, titled “Application for Recognition of Exemption Under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code,” is required for all nonprofit corporations. Smaller nonprofits have the option to file Form 1023-EZ instead. You will be prompted to provide details about your organization upon obtaining the relevant form. Complete the form with the necessary information and submit it. The filing fees are $600 for Form 1023 and $275 for Form 1023-EZ.

State Tax Exemption

Once you get the Federal Tax Exempt, it is time for State Tax Exempt. In Pennsylvania, you must apply for the tax exemption to the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue. Get the form, fill it up with the correct details, and send it to the office. You may need to pay a fee along with the form and supportive documents to apply for the State Tax Exemption. You need an Exemption Certificate to apply for the state tax exemption. Read Pennsylvania classification of taxes to learn more about the Pennsylvania tax structure.

Can I form an LLC for my Nonprofit in Pennsylvania?

Yes, you can form an LLC in Pennsylvania to run a nonprofit. Establishing an LLC nonprofit in Pennsylvania requires similar documents and paperwork. Except for tax exemption applications that one must file with the state tax and revenue department. LLCs must file Form 1023 with the Pennsylvania Department of Revenue to get the tax exemption.

After You Form a Nonprofit Corporation in Pennsylvania

Once your nonprofit is formed, there are additional steps to complete:

  • Get necessary licenses: As soon as your corporation or an LLC for your Nonprofit in Pennsylvania will be established, get necessary licenses and permits. Check with the local authority/government to get the local permits.
  • Get Insurance for the Pennsylvania Nonprofit: You must get workers’ compensation and unemployment insurance if you have employees. Based on your nonprofit structure, you might need general liability insurance, property, vehicle, auto insurance, etc.
  • Get a Business Bank Account: You must get a business account for all types of business-related transactions in Pennsylvania. You may need different documents based on the bank and place of business. Check with the bank for it.
  • File Nonprofit as Charity: This is optional. Your nonprofit is either for charity purposes or any purpose that meets your community’s needs. If your organization is for charity purposes, then you can file your nonprofit as a charity to enjoy tax exemptions.
  • Other Business Compliances: You may need additional compliances based on your nonprofit type. Check with your attorney or local authority for more information.
  • Evaluating And Improving Performance: To evaluate the performance of your non-profit organization, it is necessary to; establish performance metrics also tied to the mission; and implement continuous improvement strategies.
  • Staying Current With Nonprofit Trends And Best Practices: To stay up-to-date on trends and best practices in the non-profit world you should join nonprofit associations plus networks.

Common Challenges And How To Address Them

  • Funding Sustainability

For funding sustainability issues you need to focus on diversifying funding sources and developing strong relationships with donors. Also, implementing efficient financial management, exploring earned income opportunities for sustainability, and such should be on focus.

  • Volunteer Management

The challenges faced in volunteer management can be resolved by creating clear roles plus expectations for volunteers, and providing adequate training also support. Recognize and appreciate volunteer contributions while implementing volunteer retention strategies such as offering regular appreciation events or awards. Provide trainers’ placement services too.

  • Mission Drift

This problem can be solved by several mechanisms such as regular review and reaffirmation of your organizational mission–this will ensure that all activities are aligned with the core purpose. Educate board members and staff about the importance of the mission and make them understand how this works out in practice. Implement a strategic planning process and explain to the board why it is important for their organizations to have a well-defined mission.

  • Regulatory Compliance

To remain compliant with the law, you need to: keep track of changing laws and regulations all the time; conduct regular compliance audits; seek professional advice when in doubt; and implement comprehensive record-keeping systems.

Names of Nonprofit Corporations in Pennsylvania

Following are some of the Nonprofit Organizations in Pennsylvania. The contact information of these organizations can be found on Pennsylvania Secretary of State portal.

  • Phoenixville Charities
  • Pittsburgh Charities
  • Pittston Charities
  • Plymouth Meeting Charities
  • Pottstown Charities
  • Pottsville Charities
  • Quakertown Charities
  • Reading Charities.

FAQs

What are the legal requirements for starting a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, nonprofits must file articles of incorporation with the Department of State and obtain tax-exempt status from the IRS.
Do nonprofits in Pennsylvania have to register with the state government?
Yes, nonprofits in Pennsylvania must register with the Bureau of Corporations and Charitable Organizations.
How long does it take to incorporate a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
The timeline for incorporating a nonprofit in Pennsylvania can vary, but it typically takes several weeks to a few months.
Can nonprofits in Pennsylvania receive tax-exempt status?
Yes, nonprofits in Pennsylvania can apply for tax-exempt status from the IRS.
Are there specific rules and regulations for fundraising in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania has specific laws and regulations that govern fundraising activities by nonprofits.
How do I choose a name for my nonprofit organization in Pennsylvania?
When selecting a name for your nonprofit in Pennsylvania, it must be unique and comply with the state’s naming rules.
Do I need to have a board of directors for my nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania requires nonprofits to have a board of directors to oversee the organization’s operations.
What are the reporting requirements for nonprofits operating in Pennsylvania?
Nonprofits in Pennsylvania must file an annual report with the Department of State and comply with other reporting requirements set by the state.
Can I operate a nonprofit from my home in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, nonprofits can operate from a home office as long as they comply with zoning and other applicable regulations.
Are there specific grants available for nonprofits in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania offers various grants and funding opportunities for nonprofits operating within the state.
How do I obtain 501(c)(3) status for my nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
To obtain 501(c)(3) status for your nonprofit in Pennsylvania, you must apply to the IRS and meet all the eligibility criteria.
Do nonprofits in Pennsylvania need insurance?
Yes, it is recommended that nonprofits in Pennsylvania obtain insurance to protect the organization from liability.
Are there resources available to help me start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
Yes, there are nonprofit support organizations and resources in Pennsylvania that can assist with starting and running a nonprofit.
Can I operate a nonprofit in Pennsylvania if I live in a different state?
Yes, as long as you comply with Pennsylvania’s laws and regulations for nonprofits, you can operate a nonprofit in the state.
What types of nonprofits are most common in Pennsylvania?
Nonprofits focused on education, health, social services, and the arts are common in Pennsylvania.
How do I recruit volunteers for my Pennsylvania-based nonprofit?
To recruit volunteers for your Pennsylvania-based nonprofit, you can reach out to local organizations, schools, and community groups.
Can I start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania if I have a criminal record?
Having a criminal record does not necessarily disqualify you from starting a nonprofit in Pennsylvania, but it may impact the organization’s ability to obtain funding and support.
Are there specific rules for raising money through crowdfunding in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania has specific regulations that govern crowdfunding for nonprofits, including reporting and disclosure requirements.
How do I create a budget for my nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
To create a budget for your nonprofit in Pennsylvania, you will need to outline your expected expenses and projected income, including funding sources.
Can I receive donations from out-of-state donors for my Pennsylvania-based nonprofit?
Yes, Pennsylvania nonprofits can receive donations from donors outside the state as long as they comply with fundraising regulations and reporting requirements.
What is the process for dissolving a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
To dissolve a nonprofit in Pennsylvania, you must follow the specific procedures outlined by the state, including notifying the Attorney General’s office and settling any outstanding debts.
Are there specific requirements for maintaining tax-exempt status in Pennsylvania?
Yes, Pennsylvania nonprofits must comply with IRS regulations and file the necessary paperwork to maintain tax-exempt status.
How do I register my Pennsylvania-based nonprofit with the IRS?
To register your Pennsylvania-based nonprofit with the IRS, you must complete Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ, depending on the organization’s eligibility.
Can I start a for-profit business under the umbrella of my nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in Pennsylvania, nonprofits are allowed to operate for-profit subsidiaries as long as the profits support the organization’s charitable purposes.
Are nonprofits in Pennsylvania eligible for property tax exemptions?
Yes, nonprofit organizations in Pennsylvania may be eligible for property tax exemptions if the property is used for charitable purposes.
Can a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit lobby for political change?
Yes, Pennsylvania nonprofits can engage in some lobbying activities, but there are limitations on how much time and money can be spent on political activities.
Are there restrictions on how a Pennsylvania-based nonprofit can compensate its directors and officers?
Yes, Pennsylvania law imposes restrictions on the compensation of directors and officers of nonprofits to ensure that funds are used for charitable purposes.
What is the process for incorporating a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
To incorporate a nonprofit in Pennsylvania, you must file articles of incorporation with the Pennsylvania Department of State.
Do nonprofits in Pennsylvania need to obtain tax-exempt status?
Yes, nonprofits in Pennsylvania typically need to apply for federal tax-exempt status with the IRS to be recognized as a 501(c)(3) organization.
What are the benefits of becoming a nonprofit in Pennsylvania?
Nonprofits in Pennsylvania may be eligible for exemptions from certain taxes and have access to funding opportunities specifically for tax-exempt organizations.

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In Conclusion

Starting a Nonprofit corporation in the Pennsylvania takes careful thought, dedication, and detailing. Follow the steps detailed in this guide while addressing common challenges so that your organization can be built on solid ground and make a long-lasting impact on your cause. Remember also that running a nonprofit organization in Pennsylvania is a perpetual learning, adapting, and growing process.

As you continue your journey, you may need professional help. Having a professional or experienced person, or attorneys while you run your nonprofit in Pennsylvania can make the journey much simpler in the long run. Since forming a nonprofit involves tax exemptions, the government takes additional care to verify your background.

Donations, charity, and several community services are the most desirable ways to evade tax. Hence, many people get involved in nonprofit organizations. It is recommended to consult a legal professional, accountants, and service providers like ZenBusiness for the paperwork and formation process. With persistence, passion, and proper management structure everything is possible hence changing positively your community as far as Non-Profit corporations are concerned.

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