The Big Picture Follow the steps below to start a nonprofit organization in Illinois. Pick a name. The name must be unique. Appoint a registered agent. Choose your board of directors. State your charitable purpose. File your articles of incorporation. Create bylaws.
The IRS generally requires a minimum of three board members for every nonprofit, but does not dictate board term length. What is important to remember is that board service terms aren't intended to be perpetual, and are typically one to five years.
All charities that solicit in Illinois should be registered with the Office of the Attorney General. The Attorney General's Office can tell you if a charitable organization is registered and current in its reporting requirements.
There must be at least three directors. They do not have to be Illinois residents or corporation members, but you may require these and any other qualifications you choose.
Corporate bylaws are legally required in Illinois. Illinois statute §805 ILCS 5/2.20 requires that bylaws be adopted either by shareholders at the first shareholder meeting or by directors at the initial director meeting.
There must be at least three directors. They do not have to be Illinois residents or corporation members, but you may require these and any other qualifications you choose. Restrictions and qualifications may be outlined in the Articles of Incorporation under the Other Provisions section or in the corporate by-laws.
How to Start a Nonprofit in Illinois Name Your Organization. Recruit Incorporators and Initial Directors. Appoint a Registered Agent. Prepare and File Articles of Incorporation. File Initial Report. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) ... Store Nonprofit Records. Establish Initial Governing Documents and Policies.
Form an Illinois Corporation: Name Your Corporation. Designate a Registered Agent. Submit Articles of Incorporation. Get an EIN. File the BOI Report. Write Corporate Bylaws. Hold an Organizational Meeting. Open a Corporate Bank Account.