Everything you need for starting a nonprofit in Tennessee - 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 TN.
$100
State Filing Fee
3+
Minimum Board Members
$375
Minimum Total Cost
To start a nonprofit in Tennessee (TN), file articles of incorporation with the Secretary of State, pay the $100 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. Tennessee 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 Tennessee nonprofit cost calculator includes incorporation, IRS, solicitation, registered agent, and first-year operating costs.
Tennessee 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 with the Secretary of State. Fee: $100. Processing: 5-10 business days. Online filing available.
File with Tennessee Secretary of StateYour 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? |
|---|---|---|
| Tennessee incorporation fee | $100 | Yes |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ | $275 | Yes* |
| IRS Form 1023 (full) | $600 | If needed |
| EIN | Free | Yes |
| Charitable solicitation registration | $50 | Yes |
| Registered agent (optional) | $100-300/yr | Optional |
| Accounting software (Alignmint Free) | Free | Effectively yes |
| Total (minimum) | $375 |
*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 Tennessee Nonprofit Network provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Tennessee.
Interactive tools tailored to Tennessee's requirements.