501 & Forward™

Your approval was the beginning.

Before you fundraise

Build the foundation.
No skipping. No surprises.

Pick your state and follow a locked, step-by-step checklist — name, incorporation, EIN, bylaws, IRS Form 1023, and every filing in between. Finish this and your nonprofit is legally ready to raise money and run programs.

Pick your stateAlready approved? 501 & Forward
12 no-skip stepsAll 50 states + DCSaves your progress
Nonprofit founders signing incorporation documents together at a sunlit table

Start here

Where are you setting up?

Choose your state (or DC) to load the right agency, fees, and filings. Your checklist adapts to where you operate.