How to Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania: 7 Steps, Costs, and 501(c)(3)
Everything you need for starting a nonprofit in Pennsylvania - 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 PA.
Quick Answer: Starting a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania
To start a nonprofit in Pennsylvania (PA), file articles of incorporation with the Department of State - Bureau of Corporations, pay the $125 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. Pennsylvania also requires charitable solicitation registration before you ask the public for donations.
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 Pennsylvania nonprofit cost calculator includes incorporation, IRS, solicitation, registered agent, and first-year operating costs.
$125
State Filing Fee
3+
Minimum Board Members
$400
Minimum Total Cost
Step-by-Step: Start a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania
1Define Your Mission & Recruit a Board
Pennsylvania 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 Department of State - Bureau of Corporations. Fee: $125. Processing: 7-14 business days. Online filing available.
File with Pennsylvania Department of StateYour articles must include IRS-required purpose and dissolution clauses. See What to Include.
4Get Your EIN
Apply online at IRS.gov. It is free during the posted hours: Monday-Friday 6 a.m.-1 a.m., Saturday 6 a.m.-9 p.m., and Sunday 6 p.m.-midnight Eastern. The EIN is issued at the end of a completed session.
Apply for EIN at IRS.gov5Apply for 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status
File Form 1023-EZ ($275) only if the IRS eligibility worksheet allows it, including gross receipts generally under $50,000 and assets generally under $250,000. Otherwise file the full Form 1023 ($600). Approval timing is not guaranteed.
6Pennsylvania 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, donation management, CRM, and fundraising tools at no cost.
Cost Summary: Starting a Nonprofit in Pennsylvania
| Expense | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Pennsylvania incorporation fee | $125 | Yes |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ | $275 | Yes* |
| IRS Form 1023 (full) | $600 | If needed |
| EIN | Free | Yes |
| Charitable solicitation registration | $15 | Yes |
| Registered agent (optional) | $100-300/yr | Optional |
| Accounting software (AlignMint Free) | Free | Effectively yes |
| Total (minimum) | $400 |
*Form 1023-EZ ($275) is available only when the IRS eligibility worksheet allows it, including gross receipts generally $50,000 or less and assets $250,000 or less. Otherwise use the full Form 1023 ($600).
Not ready for your own 501(c)(3) in Pennsylvania?
Fiscal sponsorship lets you start fundraising in weeks instead of months. A fiscal sponsor handles the legal structure and compliance.
Looking for local resources? The Pennsylvania Association of Nonprofit Organizations provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Pennsylvania.
Frequently Asked Questions - Pennsylvania
Free Tools for Pennsylvania Nonprofits
Interactive tools tailored to Pennsylvania's requirements.