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

If you would like to form a corporation in Texas, 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 Texas 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 Texas, 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 Texas, you must cross-check all the factors and be guided by the steps.

How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Texas

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

What is a Nonprofit Corporation?
Steps on How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Texas
Cost of Forming a Nonprofit Corporation in Texas
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 Texas is North Texas Food Bank – A non-profit organization that provides food assistance to those in need in North Texas..

Recommended: LegalZoom’s Nonprofit Corporation Service is a game changer for aspiring visionaries who seek to transform their ideas into tangible impact, ensuring your organization leaps forward towards a better future with seamless efficiency and unwavering support. That’s why we recommend using –
LegalZoom – Starts at $99 + filing fees

Steps on How to Start a Nonprofit Corporation in Texas

To start a nonprofit corporation in Texas, you must follow the below steps that, include research and planning, choosing a corporate name, appointing directors, filing for Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation, 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 Texas, 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 Texas 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 Texas:

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 Texas Secretary of State

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

Register the Name

Depending on your Texas ‘s requirements, you may need to register your nonprofit’s name with the Secretary of State. This typically involves completing a name reservation of 120 days or registration form and paying an online reservation fee of $40, and mail reservation fee of $40. 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 Texas Secretary of State’s business name database and Texas 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 two methods, by mail and in person., which costs around Varies by county. In addition, the DBA’s validity in Texas is ten years, which you can file in Texas Secretary of State.

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

Recommended: Unlock your business’s full potential with LegalZoom’s DBA service, providing a hassle-free experience that allows you to focus on what matters most – turning your passion into profit. We recommend –
– LegalZoom – Starts at $99 + filing fees

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 Texas Registered Agent Services to check in forming Texas Nonprofit Corporation.

We reviewed some of the Best Registered Agent Services and provided features as an add-on with their formation packages.

LLC Service	Rating & Pricing	Top Features	Learn More
#1 Recommendation	5/5 $299 Per Year	Free LLC Formation RA service in all states Legal consultation	Learn More
	4/5 $125 Per Year	Flat price for RA service LLC formation package Fast service	Learn More

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 Texas, you need to have at least Three 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 Texas nonprofit corporation is to formally incorporate your organization with the Texas 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 Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation

The Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation 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 Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation.

File the Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation

Once your Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation is complete, please submit them to the Texas 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 Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation for your records.

Filing Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation in Texas may be done with four methods that are online, fax, by mail and in-person. The Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation fee may vary from different state. However, in Texas, it costs $300 for filing online, by mail, in person filing, or by Fax.

Online Filing: Create an account/Log in to the SOS site, get the e-form, fill it, and submit online. Or get the online PDF, fill it up and upload it back on the site.
Offline filing: Send the form by mail to or drop it off in person at Secretary of State, P.O. Box 13697, Austin, TX 78711-3697. Or Fax it to (512) 463 – 5709

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 Texas 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.

Recommended: With LegalZoom’s EIN service, obtaining your business’s crucial tax ID becomes a breeze, saving you time and effort by handling the complexities so you can quickly set sail on your entrepreneurial voyage. We recommend –
– LegalZoom – $79 (Standard Fee)

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, Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation, 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 Texas 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 Texas Comptroller of Public Accounts.

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 Texas 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, Certificate of Formation – For Profit Corporation, 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 Texas 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 Texas for this reporting system is best.

Step 11: Launch and Promote the Nonprofit

With your Texas 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 Texas

In forming a nonprofit corporation in Texas, the filing and Annual fees must be paid. Without it, your nonprofit corporation won’t operate. In Texas, the nonprofit costs $300 for filing online, by mail, in person filing, or by Fax, and should file an Annual Report. You should ensure you comply with all the necessary fees and costs so your Texas nonprofit corporation will run successfully and smoothly.

Is Forming a Nonprofit Corporation in Texas Worth It?

Forming a nonprofit corporation in Texas 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 Texas 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?

A non-profit corporation is a type of organization that is created for a specific charitable or public purpose.

What are the benefits of starting a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Texas offers several benefits for non-profit corporations like tax exemptions, public service grant programs, and flexibility of incorporation.

What is the process for starting a non-profit corporation in Texas?

The process for starting a non-profit corporation in Texas involves filing articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, obtaining a tax ID number, and registering for state and federal tax exemptions.

Do I need an attorney to start a non-profit corporation in Texas?

No, you do not need an attorney to start a non-profit corporation in Texas. However, legal advice may be useful in complex situations.

What are the requirements for incorporating a non-profit in Texas?

Texas requires that a non-profit corporation has at least one person as a director and three people as incorporators.

How long does it take to start a non-profit corporation in Texas?

In Texas, it can take anywhere from two weeks to several months to start a non-profit corporation, depending on the complexity of the organization and the state’s approval process.

What should be included in the Articles of Incorporation of a Texas non-profit corporation?

The Articles of Incorporation should include the non-profit’s name, its purpose, the names of its directors and incorporators, and information about financial management.

How much does it cost to incorporate in Texas?

The filing fee for incorporating a non-profit corporation in Texas is $25.

What are the requirements for registering a Texas non-profit corporation for tax-exempt status?

A non-profit corporation must have a 501(c)(3) determination letter from the IRS and must file a Form 1023 with the state.

How often must a Texas non-profit file its annual report?

Texas non-profits must file their annual reports once a year.

Is there a minimum age requirement to start a non-profit corporation in Texas?

There is no minimum age requirement to start a non-profit corporation in Texas, as long as the person is legally able to enter into a contract.

Can a non-profit corporation operate outside of Texas?

Yes, a non-profit corporation can operate outside of Texas, but it would need to register in each state where it does business.

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

A non-profit corporation is formed for a specific charitable or public purpose, while a for-profit corporation is formed to generate profits for its shareholders.

Can a non-profit corporation pay its directors or officers in Texas?

Yes, a non-profit corporation may pay its directors or officers in Texas, as long as the compensation is reasonable and reflects fair market value.

What are the reporting requirements for a Texas non-profit corporation?

Texas non-profit corporations must file an annual report with the Secretary of State and maintain proper financial records.

Can a non-profit corporation hold a fundraiser in Texas?

Yes, a non-profit corporation can hold a fundraiser in Texas, but it must comply with the state’s laws and regulations regarding charitable solicitation.

Is a non-profit corporation in Texas exempt from state taxes?

Yes, a non-profit corporation in Texas is generally exempt from state taxes, but it must receive an exemption from the Texas Comptroller.

How can I apply for tax exemptions for a Texas non-profit?

In order to apply for tax exemptions for a Texas non-profit, organizations must file the necessary paperwork with the appropriate state agencies.

How can I find out if a Texas non-profit is registered with the state?

You can check the Texas Secretary of State’s business search database to determine if a non-profit corporation is registered in Texas.

What are the fundraising requirements for a Texas non-profit corporation?

Texas non-profit corporations must adhere to state and federal regulations when soliciting and accepting donations from the public.

Can a Texas non-profit corporation lobby for legislation?

Yes, a Texas non-profit corporation can lobby for legislation, but it must comply with federal and state laws regarding lobbying and political activity.

How can a Texas non-profit corporation change its articles of incorporation or bylaws?

A Texas non-profit corporation can change its articles of incorporation or bylaws by following a specific amendment process, including obtaining approval from the board of directors and filing paperwork with the state.

What happens to a Texas non-profit corporation’s assets if it dissolves?

In the event of dissolution, a Texas non-profit corporation’s assets must be distributed to another non-profit corporation that is qualified to receive them.

Can a Texas non-profit corporation have paid employees?

Yes, a Texas non-profit corporation may have paid employees, but it must comply with state and federal wage regulations.

How can I get funding for my Texas non-profit corporation?

There are several options for funding a Texas non-profit corporation, including grants, private donations, and fundraising events.

Are there any restrictions on political involvement for a Texas non-profit corporation?

Yes, non-profit corporations are restricted from participating in political campaigns or endorsing political candidates in Texas.

What is the difference between a private foundation and a public charity in Texas?

Private foundations are typically funded by a small number of individuals or organizations, while public charities receive funding from a larger and more diverse group of donors.

What is the purpose of a Texas non-profit corporation’s board of directors?

The board of directors of a Texas non-profit corporation is responsible for overseeing the organization and making crucial decisions regarding its operations.

What is a non-profit corporation in Texas?

A non-profit corporation in Texas is a legally recognized entity that operates for purposes other than generating profits.

What are the filing requirements for starting a non-profit corporation in Texas?

To start a non-profit corporation in Texas, you must file Articles of Incorporation with the Texas Secretary of State’s office.

How much does it cost to start a non-profit corporation in Texas?

The cost of starting a non-profit corporation in Texas varies depending on the size of the corporation and the specific needs of the organization.

How do I choose a name for my non-profit corporation in Texas?

To choose a name for your non-profit corporation in Texas, you must ensure that it is unique and not already in use by another organization.

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

The main difference between a non-profit and a for-profit corporation in Texas is the purpose for which they are formed. Non-profits are designed to serve a specific cause or mission, while for-profits are focused on generating profits for their owners.

Can I get a loan for my non-profit corporation in Texas?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Texas are eligible for loans from banks and other financial institutions.

Can a non-profit corporation make a profit in Texas?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Texas can generate a profit, but it must be reinvested in the organization’s mission rather than distributed to its directors or members.

How do I obtain tax-exempt status for my non-profit corporation in Texas?

To obtain tax-exempt status for your non-profit corporation in Texas, you must file an application with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

What is the board of directors for a non-profit corporation in Texas?

The board of directors for a non-profit corporation in Texas is a group of individuals responsible for managing the organization’s affairs and goals.

What are the annual reporting requirements for a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Non-profit corporations in Texas must file an annual report with the Texas Secretary of State’s office by May 15th of each year.

Can a non-profit corporation pay salaries in Texas?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Texas can pay salaries to their employees, but these salaries must be reasonable and consistent with the organization’s mission and purpose.

What are the restrictions on fundraising for non-profit corporations in Texas?

Non-profit corporations in Texas must follow specific guidelines when fundraising, including complying with state and federal laws on charitable solicitations.

Can a non-profit corporation in Texas accept donations from individuals and businesses?

Yes, non-profit corporations in Texas can accept donations from individuals and businesses as long as these donations are made in accordance with state and federal laws.

What are the rules for changing the purpose of a non-profit corporation in Texas?

If a non-profit corporation in Texas wants to change its purpose, it must follow specific guidelines and may need to seek approval from the Texas Secretary of State’s office.

How do I terminate a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Terminating a non-profit corporation in Texas involves a number of legal and administrative steps, including filing dissolution paperwork with the Texas Secretary of State’s office.

What are the governance rules for non-profit corporations in Texas?

Non-profit corporations in Texas must comply with specific governance rules, including having bylaws and a board of directors.

What happens to the assets of a non-profit corporation if it dissolves in Texas?

If a non-profit corporation dissolves in Texas, its assets must be distributed to another non-profit organization with a similar mission.

What are the steps for creating bylaws for a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Creating bylaws for a non-profit corporation in Texas involves defining the organization’s purpose, governance structure, and operating procedures.

How are non-profit corporations in Texas governed?

Non-profit corporations in Texas are governed by their board of directors, which is responsible for overseeing the organization’s mission, operations, and finances.

What is the role of the Texas State Attorney General in overseeing non-profit corporations?

The Texas State Attorney General has the authority to investigate or take legal action against a non-profit corporation in Texas for violating state or federal laws.

Can non-profit corporations in Texas engage in political activities?

Non-profit corporations in Texas can engage in political activities to a limited extent, but these activities cannot involve partisan politics or endorsing particular candidates.

Do non-profit corporations in Texas have to pay property taxes?

Non-profit corporations in Texas are exempt from paying property taxes on property that is used exclusively for the organization’s charitable purposes.

Can I claim a tax deduction for donations to a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Yes, donations to non-profit corporations in Texas are tax-deductible to the extent allowable by law.

What is the process for removing a board member from a non-profit corporation in Texas?

Removing a board member from a non-profit corporation in Texas typically involves following specific procedures outlined in the organization’s bylaws.

Do non-profit corporations in Texas have to register with the state?

Non-profit corporations in Texas must register with the Texas Secretary of State’s office and may also need to register with other state agencies depending on their specific activities and operations.

What is the Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act?

The Texas Non-Profit Corporation Act is the state law that governs all non-profit corporations in Texas and provides the legal framework for their creation and operation.

Why You Should Start Texas Nonprofit

One compelling reason to start a Texas nonprofit is the opportunity to address pressing social issues in your community. By establishing a nonprofit organization, you can take a hands-on approach to tackling challenges like homelessness, poverty, education, or environmental sustainability. Nonprofits have the flexibility and autonomy to implement creative solutions and mobilize resources to address these issues at the local level.

In addition to addressing community needs, starting a nonprofit can also be a meaningful way to connect with like-minded individuals and build a network of supporters who share your values and goals. Nonprofits often rely on volunteers, donors, and community partners to sustain their work, creating opportunities for collaboration and collective impact. By creating a nonprofit organization, you can bring together a diverse group of individuals who are committed to creating positive change in their community.

Furthermore, starting a nonprofit can be a fulfilling way to express your own values and beliefs. If you are passionate about a particular cause or issue, creating a nonprofit can give you a platform to advocate for change and make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Nonprofits provide a platform for individuals to amplify their voices and raise awareness about important social issues, contributing to a more informed and engaged society.

Moreover, starting a nonprofit in Texas can also provide personal and professional development opportunities. As a nonprofit leader, you will have the opportunity to develop valuable skills in areas such as fundraising, strategic planning, communication, and leadership. Running a nonprofit can be a dynamic and challenging experience that pushes you to grow and learn as an individual, helping you to build resilience, adaptability, and problem-solving skills that can benefit you in various aspects of your life.

Ultimately, starting a Texas nonprofit is a powerful way to make a difference in your community and leave a lasting impact on the world. Whether you are motivated by a specific cause, a desire to connect with like-minded individuals, or a vision for positive change, creating a nonprofit organization can be a fulfilling and meaningful endeavor. By taking the initiative to start a nonprofit, you can play a vital role in shaping the future of your community and creating a more just, compassionate, and sustainable society.

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.