How to Start a Nonprofit in Arkansas: 7 Steps, Costs, and 501(c)(3)
Everything you need for starting a nonprofit in Arkansas - 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 AR.
Quick Answer: Starting a Nonprofit in Arkansas
To start a nonprofit in Arkansas (AR), file articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, pay the $50 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. Arkansas 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 Arkansas nonprofit cost calculator includes incorporation, IRS, solicitation, registered agent, and first-year operating costs.
Prefer a narrative walkthrough? Extended Arkansas startup guide →
$50
State Filing Fee
3+
Minimum Board Members
$325
Minimum Total Cost
Step-by-Step: Start a Nonprofit in Arkansas
1Define Your Mission & Recruit a Board
Arkansas 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.
2Write Your Bylaws
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.
3File Articles of Incorporation
File with the Secretary of State. Fee: $50. Processing: 3-5 business days. Online filing available.
File with Arkansas Secretary of StateYour articles must include IRS-required purpose and dissolution clauses. See What to Include.
4Get Your EIN
Apply online at IRS.gov - free and instant during business hours (Mon-Fri, 7am-10pm ET).
Apply for EIN at IRS.gov5Apply for 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status
File 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.
6Arkansas State Registrations
7Set Up Accounting & Operations
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.
Cost Summary: Starting a Nonprofit in Arkansas
| Expense | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Arkansas incorporation fee | $50 | 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) | $325 |
*Most small nonprofits qualify for Form 1023-EZ ($275). Use the full Form 1023 ($600) if gross receipts exceed $50K/year.
Not ready for your own 501(c)(3) in Arkansas?
Fiscal sponsorship lets you start fundraising in weeks instead of months. InFocus Ministries handles the legal structure and compliance.
Looking for local resources? The Arkansas Nonprofit Alliance provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Arkansas.
Frequently Asked Questions - Arkansas
Free Tools for Arkansas Nonprofits
Interactive tools tailored to Arkansas's requirements.