Keep the accepted Articles. Save the state-stamped or electronically accepted version permanently. Banks, funders, insurers, and the IRS may request it.
Your post-incorporation sequence
- Read the acceptance notice. Confirm the exact legal name, effective date, file number, and any correction required.
- Create the corporate record book. Store Articles, bylaws, policies, minutes, resolutions, EIN letter, applications, determinations, and annual filings.
- Hold the organizational meeting. Adopt bylaws, elect officers, approve policies, authorize banking, approve the fiscal year, and document decisions.
- Obtain an EIN. Apply directly with the IRS and preserve the confirmation notice.
- Open the organizational bank account. Use board-authorized signers and never mix organizational and personal funds.
- Complete the IRS eligibility analysis. Determine whether to prepare Form 1023 or consider Form 1023-EZ after completing the official worksheet.
- Address state tax and charity registrations. Incorporation does not automatically complete sales, income, property-tax, or fundraising registrations.
- Adopt bookkeeping and receipt controls. Track restrictions, donor information, expenses, approvals, and supporting documents from day one.
- Calendar annual obligations. Include the state annual report, Form 990-series return, charity renewals, board meetings, and conflict disclosures.
Which generated documents are filed?
| Document | Typical next action |
|---|---|
| Articles of Incorporation | File with the state formation agency. |
| Bylaws | Adopt and keep in internal records; provide when legitimately requested. |
| Conflict-of-interest policy | Adopt, follow, and maintain annual disclosures. |
| Organizational minutes | Approve, sign, and keep in the minute book. |
| EIN guide | Use to apply directly to the IRS; the guide itself is not filed. |
| Form 1023 prep guide | Use to prepare the separate electronic IRS application. |
Start Your Cause does not submit these items. Generating or printing a document does not file it with any agency.
Service boundary: Start Your Cause generates customizable templates and educational guidance. We do not submit filings or government fees to a state agency or the IRS. Review current agency instructions before filing.
Frequently asked questions
Does state incorporation make us tax exempt?
No. State incorporation creates the state entity. Federal 501(c)(3) recognition generally requires a separate Form 1023-series application.
When should we get the EIN?
Generally after the legal entity is formed and before banking or the Form 1023-series application. Use the organization’s exact legal information.
Do we file our bylaws with the state?
Bylaws are usually adopted and retained internally rather than filed with the Articles. Other applications may request them.
When can we open a bank account?
Banks set documentation requirements, commonly including accepted Articles, EIN confirmation, bylaws, and a board banking resolution.
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Turn your answers into organized documents
Use the guided Start Your Cause questionnaire to prepare formation templates, governance documents, and a state-specific next-step checklist.
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