Here is the fully detailed, version of the steps to start a nonprofit in Florida and get 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status, with official websites and costs included:

✅ STEP 1: Choose a Name for Your Nonprofit

• Check if the name is available using the Florida Division of Corporations.
• Website: https://search.sunbiz.org

✅ STEP 2: Appoint Directors and Officers

• You need at least 3 directors who are not related.
• You’ll also need a President, Secretary, and Treasurer (one person can hold more than one office, but not all three).

✅ STEP 3: Write Your Bylaws

• This is your rulebook—how you will run your nonprofit.
• Bylaws aren’t filed with the state, but the IRS will need to see them later.

✅ STEP 4: File Articles of Incorporation with Florida

• File online with Sunbiz (Florida Division of Corporations)
• Must include specific IRS-required language (for 501(c)(3) approval).
• Website: https://efile.sunbiz.org/np_file.html
• Cost: $35 filing fee + $35 for registered agent = $70 total
• (Optional Certified Copy: $8.75, Certificate of Status: $8.75)

✅ STEP 5: Get an EIN from the IRS (Free)

• An EIN (Employer Identification Number) is like a Social Security number for your nonprofit.
• Apply online: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online
• Cost: FREE
• You’ll get your EIN immediately.

✅ STEP 6: Register with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

• If you plan to ask people for donations, you must register your nonprofit.
• This is called the Solicitation of Contributions Act.
• Register online here: https://www.fdacs.gov/Consumer-Resources/Charities
• Cost: Varies (can be $10 – $400) based on your revenue

✅ STEP 7: Apply for Florida Sales Tax Exemption (Optional)

• You can apply to be exempt from paying sales tax.
• Apply here: https://floridarevenue.com/taxes/taxesfees/Pages/sales_tax_exempt.aspx
• Form: DR-5
• Cost: FREE

✅ STEP 8: File IRS Form 1023 for 501(c)(3) Tax Exempt Status

This gives you the official federal approval to be a tax-exempt nonprofit.

There are 2 versions:

1. Form 1023-EZ (Short version)

• For nonprofits with projected revenue under $50,000/year
• File online: https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/62143174
• Cost: $275
• Easier and faster (approval in 2–4 months)

1. Form 1023 (Full version)

• For larger nonprofits or complex cases
• File online: https://www.pay.gov/public/form/start/23779454
• Cost: $600
• Can take 4–8+ months to get approval

• IRS Instructions and Help: https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits

✅ STEP 9: Wait for IRS Determination Letter

• This letter confirms that your nonprofit is officially recognized as tax-exempt under section 501(c)(3).
• Save this letter for banks, grants, and legal records.

✅ Optional but Important:

• Open a Bank Account using your EIN and IRS letter.
• File Annual Reports with the state through Sunbiz: https://efile.sunbiz.org/
• IRS Annual Filing: File Form 990-N (or 990/990-EZ) yearly.

• 💰 Total Estimated Costs:

• Item	Cost
  Florida Incorporation	$70
  IRS Form 1023-EZ	$275
  OR IRS Form 1023	$600
  Charitable Registration (Florida)	$10–$400
  Total (minimum)	~$355 (EZ route)
  Total (maximum)	~$1,070 (full route)