Creating a 501c3 org

[mightyisis]

Does anyone have a rough outline of the process necessary to create a 501c3 organization? I thought I found a powerpoint presentation on this site a year ago and I didn't save it. I realize it is specific to each state and I am located in Ohio. I have been told you do not need to be a lawyer to accomplish this task. Any guidance would be welcome.

[Mark McLeod]

Look on NEMO Resources (http://www.firstnemo.org/resources.htm) for related articles, e.g.,
Gus article about Forming A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit For A RoboticsTeam (http://thinktank.wpi.edu/article/105) on Think Tank.
MOE presentation 501(c)3 Nonprofit Status: What is it, do we need it, and how do we get it? (http://first.wpi.edu/Images/CMS/First/2006CON_Nonprofit_Status_Perotto_Enslen.ppt)

[pfreivald]

Or do what I did: Find a bank with a community endowment and form an umbrella under them. It was much faster, incredibly easy, and free.

[Mark McLeod]

BSA Venturers, 4H, and local educational foundations are also frequently used as simple umbrella organizations.
They provide a vehicle for charitable tax donations and insurance coverage if that's lacking.

[RoboMom]

Or other STEM related non-profits in the area. Most will charge some administrative fees - 5% off incoming donations seems to be common.

[pfreivald]

Or other STEM related non-profits in the area. Most will charge some administrative fees - 5% off incoming donations seems to be common.

Really? Not our experience!

[RoboMom]

Has anyone had experience with this group?
http://www.501c3u.com/

501(c)(3)university

[Jimmy Nichols]

We formed our umbrella with the Local Community Foundation. They charge a 2% annual fee, Min is $100. Very minor compared to handling all the taxes, processing donations, cutting checks, and sending out letters for donors to use for their taxes. We also have our money in the market so our money makes money for us.