Everything you need for starting a nonprofit in Texas - filing requirements, fees, board minimums, EIN, Form 1023, and direct links to state agencies. This guide also covers common searches like how to start a nonprofit in TX.
To start a nonprofit in Texas (TX), file articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, pay the $25 state filing fee, appoint at least 3 directors, get an EIN, and apply for 501(c)(3) recognition with Form 1023-EZ or the full Form 1023. Texas does not require a separate charitable solicitation registration for most nonprofits.
If you are comparing the IRS forms, use the Form 1023 vs. 1023-EZ decision guide before you pay the non-refundable Pay.gov fee. For budgeting, the Texas nonprofit cost calculator includes incorporation, IRS, solicitation, registered agent, and first-year operating costs.
Texas nonprofits usually file Form 202 with the Texas Secretary of State ($25 state fee), often through SOSDirect, then apply for an EIN and file Form 1023 or 1023-EZ through Pay.gov. Confirm the current IRS user fee on Pay.gov before you pay—it is non-refundable. There is no Texas state income tax, but many charities still file Form AP-204 for sales tax exemption with the Comptroller. See our Texas cost breakdown, Form 1023 instructions and fees, and the 50-state incorporation comparison.
| State filing | Form 202 with the Texas Secretary of State; $25 state fee. |
| Board | At least 3 directors before you approve bylaws and open operating accounts. |
| IRS step | EIN first, then Form 1023-EZ or full Form 1023 through Pay.gov. |
| Texas follow-up | No separate Texas charitable solicitation filing for most nonprofits; review Form AP-204 for sales tax exemption after IRS recognition. |
$25
State Filing Fee
3+
Minimum Board Members
$300
Minimum Total Cost
Texas requires a minimum of 3 board members. Write a clear mission statement and recruit directors who are passionate about your cause. See How to Write a Mission Statement and Board Requirements.
Draft bylaws covering board structure, officer roles, meeting requirements, conflict of interest policy, and dissolution clause. The IRS requires a copy with your Form 1023. See free bylaws generator or bylaws writing guide.
File Form 202 (Certificate of Formation) with the Texas Secretary of State. Fee: $25. Processing: 2-5 business days. Most teams file online through SOSDirect; mail filing is also available—confirm current options on the official site.
File on SOSDirectYour articles must include IRS-required purpose and dissolution clauses. See What to Include.
Apply online at IRS.gov - free and instant during business hours (Mon-Fri, 7am-10pm ET).
Apply for EIN at IRS.govFile Form 1023-EZ ($275, 2-4 week approval) if your gross receipts are under $50K/year, or the full Form 1023 ($600, 3-6 months) for larger organizations.
Open a bank account, set up fund accounting, and start tracking donations from day one. Alignmint's Free plan includes dashboard, Minty AI, donation management, CRM, and fundraising tools at no cost.
| Expense | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Texas incorporation fee | $25 | Yes |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ | $275 | Yes* |
| IRS Form 1023 (full) | $600 | If needed |
| EIN | Free | Yes |
| Registered agent (optional) | $100-300/yr | Optional |
| Accounting software (Alignmint Free) | Free | Effectively yes |
| Total (minimum) | $300 |
*Most small nonprofits qualify for Form 1023-EZ ($275). Use the full Form 1023 ($600) if gross receipts exceed $50K/year.
Fiscal sponsorship lets you start fundraising in weeks instead of months. InFocus Ministries handles the legal structure and compliance.
Looking for local resources? The Texas Nonprofit Strong provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Texas.
Interactive tools tailored to Texas's requirements.
