How to Start a Nonprofit in Arkansas: 2026 Step-by-Step Guide
This guide covers every step to start a nonprofit in Arkansas — from filing with the Secretary of State to getting your 501(c)(3) determination letter. For the general process, see our complete nonprofit startup guide.
Use our interactive Arkansas startup tools to track your progress, calculate costs, and access direct links to every filing portal.
Arkansas Nonprofit Quick Facts
| Detail | Arkansas |
|---|---|
| Filing agency | Secretary of State |
| Incorporation fee | $50 |
| Expedited processing | $25 additional |
| Online filing | Yes |
| Processing time | 3-5 business days |
| Minimum board members | 3 |
| Charitable solicitation | Not required |
| State tax exemption | Required — Department of Finance and Administration |
| Annual report fee | $0 |
Step 1: Define Your Mission and Name
Write a clear mission statement that describes who you serve and what problem you solve. Search the Secretary of State business name database to confirm your name is available.
Step 2: Recruit Your Board of Directors
Arkansas requires a minimum of 3 directors. The IRS expects at least 3 unrelated board members for a 501(c)(3) application. Best practice is 5-15 members with diverse skills. See our Board of Directors guide.
Step 3: File Articles of Incorporation
File your articles with the Secretary of State.
- Fee: $50 (expedited: add $25)
- Filing: Online filing available
- Processing time: 3-5 business days
Your articles must include:
- Purpose clause referencing Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code
- Dissolution clause directing assets to another 501(c)(3) organization
- Name and address of registered agent in Arkansas
Without these clauses, the IRS will reject your application. See our Articles of Incorporation guide.
Step 4: Adopt Bylaws and Governance Policies
At your organizational board meeting, adopt bylaws covering board structure, officer roles, meeting procedures, and amendments. Also adopt a conflict of interest policy and compensation policy — the IRS asks about both on Form 1023.
Step 5: Get Your EIN
Apply for an Employer Identification Number at irs.gov/ein. Free and instant. See our EIN guide.
Step 6: File IRS Form 1023 or 1023-EZ
- Form 1023-EZ: $275, 2-4 week approval, for organizations under $50,000/year in projected receipts
- Full Form 1023: $600, 3-6 month approval, for larger organizations
File within 27 months of incorporation for retroactive tax-exempt status. Use our Form 1023 Checklist to prepare.
Step 7: Charitable Solicitation Registration
Good news: Arkansas does not require separate charitable solicitation registration for nonprofits. Once you have your 501(c)(3) determination, you can begin fundraising without additional state registration.
Step 8: Apply for State Tax Exemption
Federal 501(c)(3) status does not automatically exempt you from Arkansas state taxes. Apply through the Department of Finance and Administration for state income tax and sales tax exemptions. You will need your IRS determination letter.
Step 9: Set Up Operations
With legal formation complete, set up your systems:
- Open a bank account with your EIN and articles
- Set up fund accounting — purpose-built for restricted funds and Form 990 reporting
- Configure your donor CRM for gift tracking and tax receipts
- Create a donation page to accept online gifts
- Set up volunteer management if your programs need volunteers
For a complete timeline, see our Setting Up a Nonprofit guide.
Step 10: Ongoing Compliance
Arkansas has minimal annual reporting requirements for nonprofits.
Also mark your Form 990 deadline — missing three consecutive years means automatic revocation of your tax-exempt status.
Arkansas Nonprofit Cost Breakdown
| Cost | Amount | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Secretary of State incorporation | $50 | Yes |
| Expedited processing | $25 | Optional |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ | $275 | Yes (or $600 for full 1023) |
| EIN | Free | Yes |
| Charitable solicitation | Not required | N/A |
| State tax exemption application | Free | Yes |
| Annual report | $0/year | Varies |
| Minimum total | $325 |
Arkansas Nonprofit Resources
-
Secretary of State — business filings and incorporation
-
Department of Finance and Administration — state tax exemption
-
Arkansas Nonprofit Alliance — statewide nonprofit membership and resources
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