How to Start a Nonprofit in Virginia: 7 Steps, Costs, and 501(c)(3)
Everything you need for starting a nonprofit in Virginia - 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 VA.
Quick Answer: Starting a Nonprofit in Virginia
To start a nonprofit in Virginia (VA), file articles of incorporation with the State Corporation Commission, pay the $75 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. Virginia 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 Virginia nonprofit cost calculator includes incorporation, IRS, solicitation, registered agent, and first-year operating costs.
Prefer a narrative walkthrough? Extended Virginia startup guide →
$75
State Filing Fee
3+
Minimum Board Members
$350
Minimum Total Cost
Step-by-Step: Start a Nonprofit in Virginia
1Define Your Mission & Recruit a Board
Virginia 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 State Corporation Commission. Fee: $75. Processing: 3-5 business days. Online filing available.
File with Virginia State Corporation CommissionYour 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.
6Virginia 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 Virginia
| Expense | Cost | Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Virginia incorporation fee | $75 | Yes |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ | $275 | Yes* |
| IRS Form 1023 (full) | $600 | If needed |
| EIN | Free | Yes |
| Charitable solicitation registration | $100 | Yes |
| Registered agent (optional) | $100-300/yr | Optional |
| Accounting software (Alignmint Free) | Free | Effectively yes |
| Total (minimum) | $350 |
*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 Virginia?
Fiscal sponsorship lets you start fundraising in weeks instead of months. InFocus Ministries handles the legal structure and compliance.
Looking for local resources? The Center for Nonprofit Excellence provides networking, training, and advocacy for nonprofits in Virginia.
Frequently Asked Questions - Virginia
Free Tools for Virginia Nonprofits
Interactive tools tailored to Virginia's requirements.