How to start a nonprofit in Washington state

To start a nonprofit in Washington State you need to select a name for your organization, draft the nonprofit's articles of incorporation, and obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Here are some details on these steps and others:

• Select a name for your organization. The first step in this process is to choose a name for your nonprofit organization. The name that you choose must be unique and different from other organizations that have registered names with the Washington Secretary of State.
• Draft the nonprofit's articles of incorporation. You then must write your nonprofit's articles of incorporation, this is a document that outlines your nonprofit organization's primary purpose, structure of governance, and other important information. You must then pay a fee and file this document with the Washington Secretary of State.
• Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). The next step is to get federal and state tax IDs. Your employer identification number (EIN) is critical to starting and growing your nonprofit, as it helps with matters like opening a business bank account and paying taxes, although nonprofits remain exempt from many federal taxes.
• File for tax-exempt status with the IRS. Your nonprofit will have to meet certain requirements to receive tax-exempt status from the IRS. You can research the requirements on the IRS website and also apply there as well.
• Register with the Washington Attorney General's Office. If your nonprofit organization plans to receive donations or funding from the public, you must first register with the Attorney General's Office in your state and provide it with specific information about your nonprofit organization.
• Get the required permits and licenses. Dependent on your business.
• Create a board of directors and bylaws. Lastly, your nonprofit needs a board of directors that can provide oversight for the organization. It is also advisable for you to create bylaws that delineate your organization's structure of governance, procedures, and protocols.