The short answer: most founders spend between $275 and $1,000 in government fees to start a nonprofit, and more if they use professional help. The exact number depends on your state and which IRS form you file. Here is the full breakdown so there are no surprises.
Government fees you cannot avoid
| Fee | Amount | Paid to |
|---|---|---|
| State incorporation (Articles) | ~$0–$150 | Your state |
| EIN | Free | IRS |
| IRS Form 1023-EZ user fee | $275 | IRS |
| IRS full Form 1023 user fee | $600 | IRS |
| State charitable registration (if required) | ~$0–$100 | Your state |
State incorporation fees vary widely. Some states charge nothing for nonprofit Articles; others charge over $100. Your IRS fee depends entirely on which form you qualify for, which comes down to your projected size.
Which IRS fee applies to you?
If your nonprofit projects under $50,000 in annual gross receipts and holds under $250,000 in assets, you likely qualify for the 1023-EZ ($275 fee). Larger or more complex organizations file the full Form 1023 ($600 fee). Our 1023 vs 1023-EZ guide explains how to tell which one fits.
Three realistic budgets
| Approach | Typical total | What you get |
|---|---|---|
| Do it entirely yourself | $300–$1,000 | You handle every document and filing. Lowest cost, highest risk of errors and delays. |
| Specialist filing service | $1,499 + IRS fee | A specialist prepares and reviews everything. Far less than an attorney, much safer than DIY. |
| Nonprofit attorney | $2,500–$10,000+ | Full legal support. Best for complex organizations, highest cost. |
Costs founders forget
- Website and domain so donors and funders take you seriously.
- State tax exemption filings, separate from federal.
- Annual filings like the Form 990 series, due every year after approval.
- Bank account and basic accounting tools.
Want the IRS step done for you?
Our 501(c)(3) filing service prepares your IRS Form 1023-EZ with the exact language the IRS expects, reviews every answer, and walks you through filing, for a flat $1,499 with a 100% approval record.
Explore 501(c)(3) Filing →Where it makes sense to spend
The government fees are fixed. Where founders get real value is in getting the IRS application right the first time, because a rejection or months of delay costs far more than the filing fee. The same goes for credibility: a professional website often pays for itself with the first grant or major donor. Our step-by-step guide to starting a nonprofit shows where each cost fits in the overall process.