How to Form a Non Profit Organization in California

Step-by-Step Guide

1. 1

   Step 1: Choose a name for the nonprofit organization.

   Check with the California Secretary of State to make sure the business name is not taken.
   
   Look under the Name Availability section of the Business Portal on the Secretary of State website (sos.ca.gov).
2. 2

   Step 2: Appoint a Board of Directors.

   California requires every nonprofit to have at least one director. , These are required by California law in order to establish a nonprofit.
   
   Include information about internal regulations and procedures.
   
   You will need to keep a copy of these bylaws in the office of your nonprofit. , These will need to be filed with the Secretary of State when you incorporate your nonprofit.
   
   Refer to sample Articles of Incorporation found in the Secretary of State's regulations and codes.
   
   They can be found at leginfo.ca.gov.
   
   There is specific language that you need to include in your nonprofit's Articles of Incorporation.
3. 3

   Step 3: Write bylaws.

4. 4

   Step 4: Write Articles of Incorporation.

Detailed Guide

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