How to Start a Nonprofit in Texas: 7 Steps, Costs, and 501(c)(3)
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.
Quick Answer: Starting a Nonprofit in Texas
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.
Texas nonprofit startup checklist
| 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
Step-by-Step: Start a Nonprofit in Texas
1Define Your Mission & Recruit a Board
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.
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 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.
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.
6Texas 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 Texas
| 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 |
*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 Texas?
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 Texas Nonprofit Strong provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions - Texas
Free Tools for Texas Nonprofits
Interactive tools tailored to Texas's requirements.