How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi (2024 Guide)

If you would like to form a corporation in Mississippi, you should also consider starting a nonprofit corporation since it plays a crucial role in our society, addressing a wide range of community needs and positively impacting countless lives. Starting a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi can be rewarding, but it requires careful planning, dedication, and a thorough understanding of the various legal and financial requirements.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through Starting a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi, from initial planning to ongoing compliance, so that you can make a meaningful difference in your community.

If you want to know more about nonprofit corporations, you may read the whole article until the end, which the Webinarcare Editorial Team had thorough research. Before starting a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi, you must cross-check all the factors and be guided by the steps.

How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi

On this page, you’ll learn about the following:

What is a Nonprofit Corporation?
Steps on How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi
Cost of Forming a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi
FAQs

What is a Nonprofit Corporation?

A nonprofit corporation is a legal entity formed under a given state’s specific laws and regulations in the United States. It is created to serve a public or mutual benefit rather than generating profits for its owners or shareholders. Nonprofit corporations typically operate in education, healthcare, social services, arts and culture, and environmental conservation.

In a nonprofit corporation, any surplus income the organization generates is reinvested into its programs and services rather than distributed to shareholders or members. This allows nonprofits to focus on fulfilling their mission and addressing community needs without the pressure to maximize profits.

An example of a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi is Mississippi Food Network – A non-profit organization that collects and distributes food to those in need..

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Steps on How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi

To start a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi, you must follow the below steps that, include research and planning, choosing a corporate name, appointing directors, filing for Articles of Incorporation, creating corporate bylaws, holding the initial board of directors, issuing stock, obtaining required licenses and permits, registering with state tax agencies, Annual reporting and ongoing compliance. All these steps are basic ones. It can be changed depending on the type of corporation you form and the nature of your business.

Step 1: Research and Planning

Before starting your nonprofit corporation in Mississippi, you must research and plan. This stage is critical to the success of your nonprofit, as it will help you refine your mission, identify potential supporters, and avoid pitfalls. By conducting thorough research and developing a well-informed plan, you can establish a nonprofit corporation that makes a real difference in the lives of those you serve.

Step 2: Choose a Name for the Nonprofit

Once you have a clear vision for your Mississippi nonprofit corporation, it’s time to choose a name. Your organization’s name should be unique, memorable, and reflective of your mission and purpose. Follow these steps to choose and register your nonprofit’s name in Mississippi:

Consider the Mission and Purpose when Choosing the Name

Your nonprofit’s name should be closely tied to its mission and purpose, making it clear to potential supporters what your organization is about. Choose a name that is meaningful and easy to remember, as this will help with marketing and fundraising efforts.

Check for Name Availability with the Mississippi Secretary of State

Before registering your nonprofit’s name, you must ensure another organization still needs to use it in Mississippi. You can do this by checking the Mississippi Secretary of State ‘s online database or contacting their office directly.

Register the Name

Depending on your Mississippi ‘s requirements, you may need to register your nonprofit’s name with the Secretary of State. This typically involves completing a name reservation of 180 days or registration form and paying an online reservation fee of $25, and mail reservation fee of $25. Be sure to follow your state’s specific guidelines and procedures for name registration.

To check the availability of your desired corporate name, you can search the Mississippi Secretary of State’s business name database and Mississippi Business Name Search.

If your nonprofit corporation plans to operate under a name other than its legal name, you may also need to register a fictitious or “doing business as” (DBA) name.

The DBA filing can be done by one method, online, which costs around $25. In addition, the DBA’s validity in Mississippi is five years, which you can file in Mississippi Secretary of State.

You can check out How to File a DBA in Mississippi for clearer understanding.

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Step 3: Hire a Registered Agent

Hiring a Registered Agent is essential in starting a nonprofit corporation. Registered Agent is a person or company responsible for receiving important legal documents, tax notices, and other correspondence for your nonprofit corporation. They ensure that your nonprofit corporation remains compliant with state regulations and requirements. There are Mississippi Registered Agent Services to check in forming Mississippi Nonprofit Corporation.

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Step 4: Establish Governance and Bylaws

With your nonprofit’s name in place, it’s time to establish your organization’s governance structure and create bylaws. These important documents will outline how your nonprofit will be run, including the roles and responsibilities of board members, the decision-making process, and the procedures for managing finances and record-keeping.

Choose the Initial Board of Directors: Your nonprofit’s board of directors will guide your organization’s activities and ensure its long-term success. Choose individuals passionate about your mission, bring diverse skills and expertise to the table, and are willing to commit the time and effort needed to fulfill their responsibilities as board members. In Mississippi, you need to have at least One directors for you to operate a nonprofit corporation.
Create Bylaws: Your bylaws are the governing document for your nonprofit, outlining the roles and responsibilities of board members, the decision-making process, and the procedures for managing finances and record-keeping. Be sure to cover board meetings, voting, committees, officer positions, conflicts of interest, and amendment procedures. Your bylaws should be tailored to your organization’s needs and requirements and developed in consultation with an attorney experienced in nonprofit law.
Hold the First Board Meeting: Once your bylaws have been drafted, hold your first board meeting to review and approve them. This meeting should also include the election of officers, such as the president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Be sure to document the meeting’s discussions and decisions in meeting minutes, as these records will be important for maintaining your nonprofit’s legal compliance.

Step 5: Incorporate the Nonprofit

The next step in starting your Mississippi nonprofit corporation is to formally incorporate your organization with the Mississippi Secretary of State. Incorporation establishes your nonprofit as a separate legal entity and provides limited liability protection for its board members and officers. To incorporate your nonprofit, follow these steps:

Prepare the Articles of Incorporation

The Articles of Incorporation is the legal document formally establishing your nonprofit corporation. This document should include your organization’s name, purpose, Registered Agent, and principal office address. Be sure to follow your state’s specific requirements for the content and format of the Articles of Incorporation.

File the Articles of Incorporation

Once your Articles of Incorporation is complete, please submit them to the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office, along with any required filing fees. The filing process may vary depending on your state, but it typically involves mailing or submitting the documents online. Keep a copy of the filed Articles of Incorporation for your records.

Filing Articles of Incorporation in Mississippi may be done with one method, that is online. The Articles of Incorporation fee may vary from different state. However, in Mississippi, it costs $50 for filing online.

Online Filing: Create an account/Log in to the SOS site, get the online form, fill it, and submit online
Offline filing: there’s no offline method of filing the documents

Step 6: Apply for State and Federal Tax Exemptions

Your organization may be eligible for state and federal tax exemptions as a nonprofit corporation. Obtaining tax-exempt status can save your nonprofit money and make it more attractive to potential donors. To apply for tax exemptions, follow these steps:

Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN)

An EIN in Mississippi is a unique number the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) assigns to your organization. You’ll need this number to apply for tax-exempt status and open a bank account for your nonprofit. You can obtain an EIN by completing the online application on the IRS website or submitting Form SS-4 by mail or fax.

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Apply for Federal Tax-Exempt Status (501(c)(3))

To apply for federal tax-exempt status, you’ll need to complete and submit Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ, depending on the size and complexity of your organization. This application requires detailed information about your nonprofit’s finances, governance, and programs. Be prepared to provide supporting documentation, including your bylaws, Articles of Incorporation, and financial projections. You’ll also need to pay a filing fee, which varies depending on the size of your organization and the form you submit.

Apply for Mississippi Tax-Exempt Status

In addition to federal tax-exempt status, your nonprofit may be eligible for state tax exemptions. The process for applying for state tax-exempt status varies by state, so research your specific state’s requirements and procedures. This may involve submitting additional forms, documentation, and fees to the Mississippi State Tax Commission.

Step 7: Obtain the Necessary Licenses and Permits

Depending on your nonprofit’s activities and location, you may need to obtain various licenses and permits to operate legally—research local, state, and federal requirements and apply for any necessary licenses and permits. Be sure to maintain compliance by renewing licenses and permits as needed and staying up-to-date on any regulation changes.

Step 8: Develop a Fundraising Plan and Strategy

Fundraising is critical to the success of your Mississippi nonprofit corporation, providing the financial resources needed to carry out your mission and programs. Develop a comprehensive fundraising plan that outlines your goals, strategies, and timelines for raising funds. This plan should include various funding sources, such as grants, donations, and special events. Create marketing materials and strategies to promote your nonprofit’s fundraising efforts and engage potential supporters.

Step 9: Open a Bank Account for the Nonprofit

With your legal and financial foundations in place, it’s time to open a bank account for your nonprofit corporation. Choose a bank that offers services tailored to nonprofits and provides the features and support your organization needs. To open an account, you’ll typically need to provide your EIN, Articles of Incorporation, bylaws, and a resolution authorizing the account opening. Establish proper financial controls and procedures to ensure responsible management of the organization’s funds.

You can check out the Mississippi Best Banks to know which bank will suit your nonprofit corporation.

Step 10: Establish Record-Keeping Systems

Effective record-keeping and reporting are essential for maintaining your nonprofit’s legal and financial compliance and demonstrating transparency and accountability to your supporters. Set up systems for tracking financial transactions, maintaining records of your organization’s activities, and reporting to the IRS, state, and other relevant agencies. Stay up-to-date on reporting requirements and deadlines to ensure your nonprofit remains in good standing. Hiring a CPA in Mississippi for this reporting system is best.

Step 11: Launch and Promote the Nonprofit

With your Mississippi nonprofit corporation officially established and your financial and legal foundations in place, it’s time to launch your organization and begin making a difference in your community. Develop a marketing plan to promote your nonprofit’s mission and services, including creating a website, social media presence, and other marketing materials. Network with other nonprofits, community organizations, and stakeholders to build partnerships and collaborations to strengthen your organization’s impact.

Step 12: Ongoing Compliance and Management

Starting a nonprofit corporation is just the beginning – maintaining your organization’s legal and financial compliance is an ongoing responsibility. Stay informed about changes in nonprofit laws and regulations, file required Annual Reports and financial statements, and regularly review and update your bylaws, policies, and procedures as needed. Foster positive relationships with board members, volunteers, and supporters to ensure your nonprofit’s continued success.

Cost of Forming a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi

In forming a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi, the filing and Annual fees must be paid. Without it, your nonprofit corporation won’t operate. In Mississippi, the nonprofit costs $50 for filing online, and should file an Annual Report. You should ensure you comply with all the necessary fees and costs so your Mississippi nonprofit corporation will run successfully and smoothly.

Is Forming a Nonprofit Corporation in Mississippi Worth It?

Forming a nonprofit corporation in Mississippi can be worth it if you are dedicated to a specific cause and prepared to meet the challenges and responsibilities of running a nonprofit organization. It is essential to carefully consider your goals and resources and consult with a Business Attorney in Mississippi or other professionals experienced in nonprofit formation and management to ensure that you are making the best decision for your situation.

FAQs

What is a non-profit corporation and how is it different from a for-profit corporation?

A non-profit corporation is an organization formed for charitable, educational, or other purpose, while a for-profit corporation is established to generate profits for its owners or shareholders.

What do I need to do to create a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

To start a non-profit corporation in Mississippi, you need to file articles of incorporation with the Mississippi Secretary of State.

Do I need to have a board of directors for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, you are required to have a board of directors for your non-profit corporation in Mississippi.

How many people can serve on the board of directors for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

There is no maximum number of people who can serve on the board of directors for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi.

When should I obtain tax-exempt status for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

You should apply for tax-exempt status as soon as possible after filing your articles of incorporation.

Is there a filing fee to create a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, the current filing fee to create a non-profit corporation in Mississippi is $50.

How long does it take to start a non-profit corporation in Mississippi after submitting my articles of incorporation?

It can take several weeks or more for the Mississippi Secretary of State’s office to process your articles of incorporation.

Do I need to have a specific purpose or mission for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, your non-profit corporation in Mississippi needs to have a specific purpose or mission that aligns with the non-profit classification.

Can I operate a non-profit corporation in Mississippi from my home office?

Yes, your non-profit corporation in Mississippi can be based out of your home office.

Is there a residency requirement to form a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

No, there is no requirement that you reside in Mississippi in order to form a non-profit corporation in the state.

Can I charge fees for services provided by my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, your non-profit corporation in Mississippi can charge for services, as long as the fees are reasonable and directly related to your organization’s mission.

Should I hire a lawyer to start my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

It is not required, but it is recommended that you consult with a lawyer to ensure that you are taking all the necessary steps to create your non-profit corporation in Mississippi properly.

Is there a required number of employees for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

No, there is no required number of employees for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi.

What’s the annual report filing fee for non-profit corporations in Mississippi?

The annual report filing fee for non-profit corporations in Mississippi is only $25.

What kind of name can I use for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

You must submit a name that is unique and not already taken by another business or organization in Mississippi.

Can I use “Inc.” in the name of my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, you can, but you must also include the appropriate non-profit identifier (e.g., “Nonprofit Corporation” or “NFP”) after the name.

Can I serve on the board of directors for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi if I’m not a Mississippi resident?

Yes, you can. Mississippi does not require its board of directors to be residents of the state.

Is there a limit to the salaries that can be paid to employees of non-profit corporations in Mississippi?

There is no limit to the amount of salaries that can be paid to employees of non-profit corporations in Mississippi.

Are non-profit corporations in Mississippi required to have a financial audit?

No, a financial audit is not required, but it may be beneficial to perform one for fundraising purposes and financial transparency.

Do I have to incorporate my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, you must incorporate your non-profit corporation in Mississippi to establish a legal entity.

Is there an age requirement for directors of non-profit corporations in Mississippi?

No, there is no age requirement for directors of non-profit corporations in Mississippi.

How long is the non-profit incorporation process in Mississippi?

It can take up to four weeks for the approval of your non-profit corporation in Mississippi.

Can non-profit corporations in Mississippi solicit donations and apply for grants?

Yes, they can. Non-profit corporations in Mississippi are eligible to solicit donations or apply for grants to further their philanthropic efforts.

Do non-profit corporations in Mississippi have to register with the Mississippi Department of Revenue?

Yes, they must register, obtain a state tax exemption for income and sales tax, and pay Corporation Franchise Tax even if they don’t pay federal income tax.

Is it necessary to have insurance for my non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, in case of liability or any other emergencies, it is advised to have insurance for your non-profit corporation in Mississippi.

Are there compliance requirements that must be met for non-profit corporations in Mississippi?

Yes, all non-profit corporations in Mississippi must comply with federal tax laws applicable to tax-exempt organizations, and the Internal Revenue Service authorized some disclosures depending on their financial activities.

Should I get different designation numbers between federal and state tax exemption applications if the corporation will operate in multiple states?

Yes, State tax agencies (like Mississippi Department of Revenue) may request new documents because the definitions and requirements for non-profit organizations might be different in each state.

Can a corporation convert into a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, under special rules and procedures, an establishment previously created as a “C” or “S” Corporation can become tax-exempt located in Mississippi.

What is a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

A non-profit corporation in Mississippi is a legal entity that is formed to engage in activities that promote a charitable, educational, or social purpose.

What is the process for forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The process for forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi involves filing articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, obtaining tax-exempt status from the Internal Revenue Service, and registering with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Charities Division.

Are there any specific requirements for forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, there are specific requirements for forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi, including having a minimum of three directors, adopting bylaws, and appointing a registered agent.

How do I file articles of incorporation for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Articles of incorporation for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can be filed online or by mail with the Secretary of State.

Is it necessary to have tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, it is necessary to have tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi in order to operate as a tax-exempt entity.

What are the steps to obtaining tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The steps to obtaining tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi include filing an application with the Internal Revenue Service and waiting for approval.

How long does it usually take to obtain tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

It can take several months to obtain tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi, depending on the complexity of the application and the workload of the Internal Revenue Service.

What are the benefits of obtaining tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The benefits of obtaining tax-exempt status for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi include being exempt from federal income tax, having access to certain grants, and being able to solicit tax-deductible donations from supporters.

What is a registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

A registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi is a person or entity that receives legal and official documents on behalf of the corporation.

Who can serve as a registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

A registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can be any individual who is at least 18 years old and has a physical address in the state.

How do I hire a registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

A registered agent for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can be hired by submitting the agent’s name and address in the articles of incorporation.

Does a non-profit corporation in Mississippi need to have bylaws?

Yes, a non-profit corporation in Mississippi is required to have bylaws that outline its rules and regulations.

Who is responsible for adopting the bylaws for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The board of directors of a non-profit corporation in Mississippi is responsible for adopting the bylaws.

Can a non-profit corporation in Mississippi pay its directors and officers?

Yes, a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can pay its directors and officers reasonable compensation for their services.

What is the process for filing annual reports for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The process for filing annual reports for a non-profit corporation in Mississippi involves submitting a report to the Secretary of State’s Charities Division.

Can a non-profit corporation in Mississippi sell goods or services?

Yes, a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can sell goods or services as long as the revenues are used to further the organization’s charitable purpose.

Do non-profit corporations in Mississippi have to pay sales tax?

Non-profit corporations in Mississippi are not exempt from state sales tax unless they have obtained a sales tax exemption certificate from the Mississippi Department of Revenue.

How can I make a donation to a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Donations can be made to a non-profit corporation in Mississippi by mailing a check or money order to the address listed on the organization’s website or by making an online donation through the organization’s website.

Can I deduct my donation to a non-profit corporation in Mississippi on my taxes?

Yes, donations to a non-profit corporation in Mississippi that has obtained tax-exempt status can be deducted on your federal tax return.

Are there any fees associated with forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, there are fees associated with forming a non-profit corporation in Mississippi, including a fee for filing the articles of incorporation and an annual fee for registering with the Mississippi Secretary of State’s Charities Division.

How do I check if a non-profit corporation in Mississippi is legitimate?

Information about non-profit corporations in Mississippi can be found on the Mississippi Secretary of State’s website.

What is the difference between a non-profit and a for-profit corporation in Mississippi?

The main difference between a non-profit and a for-profit corporation in Mississippi is that a non-profit is organized for a charitable, educational, or social purpose, while a for-profit is organized to generate a profit for its shareholders.

Can a for-profit corporation be converted into a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

Yes, a for-profit corporation in Mississippi can be converted into a non-profit corporation through a process known as reorganization.

Can non-profit corporations in Mississippi own businesses or property?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Mississippi can own businesses or property as long as the revenues generated are used for the organization’s charitable purpose.

What is the difference between a non-profit corporation and a 501(c)(3) entity in Mississippi?

A non-profit corporation is a legal entity that is formed to engage in activities that promote a charitable, educational, or social purpose, while a 501(c)(3) entity is a tax-exempt organization that is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as being organized for a charitable purpose.

How do I dissolve a non-profit corporation in Mississippi?

To dissolve a non-profit corporation in Mississippi, the organization must file a certificate of dissolution with the Secretary of State’s Charities Division.

Can a non-profit corporation in Mississippi be sued?

Yes, a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can be sued, just like any other legal entity.

Does a non-profit corporation in Mississippi have to file annual tax returns?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Mississippi are required to file annual tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service.

Is there a maximum number of directors a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can have?

There isn’t a maximum number of directors a non-profit corporation in Mississippi can have, but three is the absolute minimum.

Why You Should Start Mississippi Nonprofit

One of the primary reasons why you should consider starting a nonprofit in Mississippi is the ability to address important issues facing your community. From poverty and hunger to education and healthcare, there are numerous social issues that can be effectively addressed through the efforts of a nonprofit organization. By starting a nonprofit, you have the opportunity to bring together like-minded individuals who are passionate about creating positive change in their community.

Additionally, starting a nonprofit allows you to amplify your impact and reach a larger audience. Nonprofits have the ability to mobilize resources, engage volunteers, and collaborate with other organizations to create lasting change. By establishing a nonprofit in Mississippi, you have the opportunity to be a catalyst for positive change and help to address some of the most pressing issues facing your community.

Furthermore, starting a nonprofit can provide you with a sense of fulfillment and purpose. Being actively engaged in a cause that you are passionate about can be incredibly rewarding and can give you a sense of meaning and satisfaction. Knowing that your efforts are making a difference in the lives of others can be a powerful motivator and can help you to stay committed to your mission.

In addition to the personal benefits of starting a nonprofit, there are also practical advantages to consider. Nonprofit organizations in Mississippi are eligible for tax-exempt status, which can provide significant financial benefits. This status can also make it easier to secure grants and donations from individuals, corporations, and foundations who are more likely to support organizations that are making a positive impact in their community.

Overall, starting a nonprofit in Mississippi can be a fulfilling and impactful way to give back to your community. Whether you are passionate about social justice, environmental sustainability, or any other cause, there is a need for dedicated individuals who are willing to step up and make a difference. By starting a nonprofit, you can create a platform for change, bring together a community of like-minded individuals, and make a meaningful impact in the lives of others. So why wait? Take the first step towards starting a nonprofit in Mississippi today and begin your journey towards creating a better future for your community.

Conclusion

Starting a nonprofit corporation is a rewarding and challenging endeavor that requires careful planning, dedication, and a thorough understanding of the various legal and financial requirements. By following the steps outlined in this comprehensive guide, you’ll be well on your way to creating a nonprofit that makes a meaningful difference in your community. As you embark on this journey, remember to stay focused on your mission and your organization’s impact on the lives of those you serve. Never underestimate the power of a passionate, committed team working together to improve the world.