Start a Sole Member Nonprofit
A sole-member nonprofit is a 501(c)(3) public charity that provides the founder with enhanced protection to match the level of risk they are assuming. Our seasoned professionals are experts in this unique structure and can help you to create a fully-functioning, 501(c)(3) organization that is IRS-compliant, founder-protecting, and poised for real success!
Our CEO, Greg McRay explains sole-member nonprofits and how they may benefit startup founders
Client Review
“Setting up a 501(c)(3) is a daunting undertaking that requires a LOT of patience and drive. Foundation Group came HIGHLY RECOMMENDED and they DID NOT DISAPPOINT! From the very first contact, their staff were AMAZING. The knowledge, willingness to teach, guide, encourage, and push at times, was REFRESHING. They LISTENED to our mission, and made sure that EVERYTHING WE DID WAS IN COMPLIANCE with the legal requirements, while staying true to our vision. WELL WORTH THE INVESTMENT!”
RICHARD E.
One In A Million Organization
Benefits of Using Our Services:
PERSONAL EXEMPTION
SPECIALIST
Expertise matters! That’s why every SureStart client is paired with one of our in-house Nonprofit Exemption Specialists, who is an expert in the particular type of organization you are starting. They will dive deep into your plans, and work with you to establish your nonprofit according to compliant, best practice.
OVERSIGHT BY IRS-LICENSED
TAX SPECIALISTS AND CPAS
Credentials matter, too! Foundation Group is the only nonprofit-focused specialty firm in America providing true tax advice and counsel for nonprofits. Our team includes IRS-licensed Enrolled Agents and CPAs, ensuring federal and state tax compliance for all SureStart clients.
NAME
AVAILABLITY
Your nonprofit’s name is your brand. We research name availability in your state, prior to incorporation, so that you can secure the name you most want or the closest variant possible.
FEDERAL EIN
We apply for your required Federal Employer Identification Number, or FEIN, which is the numeric identifier assigned to your nonprofit by the IRS. It is similar to how a Social Security identifies an individual.
ARTICLES OF INCORPORATION
Sometimes called a Charter, this is the document that legally establishes your sole-member nonprofit corporation in your chosen home state. Your date of incorporation is usually considered the official, legal birthday of your nonprofit. We prepare your customized Articles of Incorporation for you to file with your state’s Corporations Office.
SOLE-MEMBER BYLAWS
Your bylaws are one of your most important legal documents. They dictate how your nonprofit will be governed. We prepare state- and IRS-compliant, draft bylaws that are uniquely suited to the specific needs of a sole-member nonprofit. Or, if you already have bylaws, we will review for compliance and advise changes at your direction.
CONFLICT OF
INTEREST POLICY
The IRS requires 501(c)(3) organizations to have a policy that dictates how its leadership will manage conflict-of-interest. We provide an IRS-approved Conflict of Interest Policy that is plug-and-play ready, and will help your leadership avoid unnecessary problems.
IRS 501(C)(3)
STATUS
This is where it all comes together! We prepare your IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exemption application and represent it while under IRS review. We’ve surpassed 25,000 IRS approvals with 100% success, since 1995. Your success is moneyback guaranteed!
STATE FUNDRAISING
REGISTRATION
The vast majority of states require nonprofits to register with their Division of Charities prior to seeking donor support or initiating other revenue generating activities. Our Compliance Team works with you to get you registered in your home state, unlocking your ability to raise the funds you need.
STATE TAX
EXEMPTION
Some states’ Division of Taxation requires nonprofits to obtain a state equivalent to IRS 501(c)(3) status in order to be corporate tax exempt. California and Texas are especially complex in this regard. We work with you to apply for and receive state exemption where necessary.
IRS FORM 990
PREPARATION (1ST YEAR)
Equivalent to a corporate tax return for nonprofits, IRS Form 990 must be filed annually by all 501(c)(3) organizations. Failure to file can result in having your nonprofit’s 501(c)(3) status revoked. All SureStart clients can rest assured, knowing their first year’s Form 990 preparation is included in their startup package.
ONGOING
CONSULTATION
SureStart clients are provided one year of ongoing access to our consulting staff by appointment or online client portal. Get the answers you need to make better decisions, reduce risk, and grow your organization.
OUR GUARANTEE: YOUR SOLE MEMBER 501(C)(3)
APPLICATION WILL BE IRS APPROVED, OR YOUR MONEY BACK!
Download Our Free, Essential Guide
to Forming Sole Member Nonprofits
Learn how this unique structure can help you establish a fully-functioning, fully-IRS compliant public charity, while simultaneously providing your founder with a level of risk protection not available with other structures.