Nonprofit Formation Guide (501(c)(3) Ready)

Start your Virginia nonprofit the right way — with clarity, compliance, and confidence.
The Virginia Nonprofit Formation Guide (501(c)(3) Ready) is a step-by-step resource designed to help founders properly register a Virginia Nonstock Corporation, file Articles of Incorporation through the SCC CIS system, and prepare for IRS 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status.
This guide walks you through the exact selections to make in the Virginia SCC system, explains when clerk review is required, and ensures your Articles include the required IRS language — without overcomplicating the process.
What’s Included:
✅ Step-by-step Virginia SCC CIS filing instructions
✅ Director-governed / no-members nonprofit structure
✅ IRS-required purpose and dissolution language
✅ Guidance on uploading custom Articles (clerk review explained)
✅ Clear amendment guidance if changes are needed later
Designed For:
New nonprofit founders
Small to mid-size nonprofits
Organizations planning to apply for IRS 501(c)(3) status
Important Note:
This guide is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute legal or tax advice.