Your First Year as a Nonprofit: Key Deadlines and Filings

Introduction

Starting a nonprofit is an exciting milestone. But once your organization is legally formed, your first year includes important deadlines that go beyond incorporation. Federal filings, state reports, and recordkeeping responsibilities all play a role in protecting your nonprofit’s legal status.

This guide walks through the most common filings and compliance steps nonprofits encounter during their first year. While requirements vary by state and organization, understanding the general timeline can help you stay organized and avoid missed obligations.

If you are still preparing to form your nonprofit, start with our Nonprofit Compliance Checklist: What Every Founder Needs to Know. If you are newly formed, this guide will help you navigate what comes next.

Immediately After Formation: The First 30 Days

Once your nonprofit is incorporated at the state level, several tasks should happen as soon as possible.

Apply for an EIN

Most nonprofits must obtain an Employer Identification Number from the IRS. An EIN is required to open a bank account, hire employees, and apply for federal tax-exempt status.

The IRS provides EIN application guidance on its Apply for an Employer Identification Number (EIN) page.

Open a Bank Account for Your Nonprofit

Keeping nonprofit funds separate from personal funds is essential. A dedicated bank account supports transparency and helps establish financial controls from the start.

Banks typically require your EIN and incorporation documents, as well as sometimes your bylaws, to open an account.

Create Bylaws and Appoint Officers

Bylaws outline how your nonprofit operates, including board structure, decision-making, and officer roles. Most nonprofits adopt bylaws shortly after formation and formally appoint directors and officers at their first board meeting.

Early in the First Year: Federal and State Nonprofit Filings

After initial setup, many nonprofits move quickly into required filings that support tax-exempt status and state compliance.

Apply for 501(c)(3) Tax-Exempt Status

Most charitable nonprofits apply for federal tax exemption by filing IRS Form 1023 or Form 1023-EZ. Approval allows your organization to receive tax-deductible donations and avoid federal income tax.

The IRS explains eligibility and application requirements on its Applying for Tax-Exempt Status page.

File an Initial or Organizational Report (If Required)

Some states require nonprofits to file an Initial Report or similar filing shortly after incorporation. Deadlines can range from a few weeks to several months after formation.

Check your Secretary of State’s website to confirm whether this requirement applies to your organization.

Fundraising Considerations in the First Year

In addition to formation and tax filings, fundraising activities can trigger separate state-level requirements during your first year.

Register for Charitable Solicitation

If your nonprofit plans to solicit donations, many states require charitable registration before fundraising begins. This applies to in-person, online, and mail-based fundraising.

Requirements vary by state and may depend on where donors are located. The National Association of State Charity Officials (NASCO) provides state-by-state charitable solicitation resources.

Ongoing Responsibilities During the First Year

Compliance is not limited to one-time filings. Throughout your first year, several ongoing practices help support good standing.

Hold Board Meetings and Keep Minutes

Even in the first year, nonprofits should document board meetings and major decisions. Meeting minutes demonstrate governance oversight and support transparency.

Maintain Accurate Records

Keeping documents organized early makes future filings easier. Important records include:

• Formation documents
• Bylaws and amendments
• Board meeting minutes
• Financial records
• IRS and state correspondence

Strong recordkeeping supports audits, grant applications, and leadership transitions.

End of the First Year: Required Annual Filings

As your nonprofit approaches the end of its first year, several filings typically come due.

File IRS Form 990

Most nonprofits must file an annual information return with the IRS, even in their first year of operation.

The IRS uses three primary versions:

• Form 990-N (e-Postcard) for organizations with gross receipts under $50,000
• Form 990-EZ for nonprofits with gross receipts under $200,000 and total assets under $500,000
• Form 990 for organizations exceeding those thresholds

Failing to file for three consecutive years results in automatic revocation of tax-exempt status.

The IRS outlines annual filing requirements on its Form 990 Series page.

File Your State Annual or Biennial Report

Most nonprofits must file a state annual or biennial report to remain in good standing. These reports confirm your organization’s address, registered agent, and leadership information.

Deadlines and requirements vary by state, so it is important to confirm details with your Secretary of State.

Why the First Year Matters

Your first year sets the tone for long-term compliance and organizational stability. Staying organized from the beginning helps nonprofits:

• Protect their 501(c)(3) tax-exempt status
• Avoid missed deadlines and penalties
• Build credibility with donors and grantmakers
• Establish strong governance practices

When you understand your responsibilities early, compliance becomes part of your routine rather than a last-minute scramble. The habits you build in your first year create a foundation for sustainable growth, donor trust, and long-term impact.