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You're leaving money and protection on the table.
Most foundations require 501(c)(3) status. You're invisible to 90% of funding sources.
Without nonprofit status, you and your board have zero legal protection from lawsuits.
Families want tax deductions. No 501(c)(3) means losing 40% of potential donations.
Equipment, uniforms, facility rentals - you're paying sales tax on everything.
Nike, Dick's, local businesses - they only sponsor official nonprofits.
Collecting over $5,000? The IRS requires filing within 27 months or face penalties.
Everything you need to get approved quickly
Everything you need to go from idea to IRS approval in 6-8 weeks
Essential Documents & Templates
Save $3,000+ in legal fees with our pre-approved templates that have helped hundreds of youth sports organizations get approved on their first submission.
Four key benefits of making it official
Parents can deduct their donations, making them 40% more likely to give. Turn $100 asks into $60 actual cost for donors.
Save money on every purchase. Equipment, uniforms, facility rentals - it can add up to big saving!
Most corporate programs and the majority of youth-sports grants prioritize 501(c)(3) organizations. Access $1,000 to $50,000 grants from foundations nationwide.
Corporations (Nike, Dick's, others) and local businesses typically only sponsor official nonprofits. Open doors to equipment deals and cash support.
Every day without 501(c)(3) status is money left on the table.
Whether you're starting fresh or converting existing programs
Starting a youth sports program from scratch? Get the foundation right from day one with proper nonprofit structure.
Transform your existing booster club into a standalone 501(c)(3) to access more funding and reduce liability.
Breaking away from school district control? Establish your own nonprofit to gain independence and funding flexibility.
Already running but missing 501(c)(3) status? Retroactively apply and start claiming tax benefits immediately.
Most youth sports organizations do! If you expect less than $50,000 in annual revenue and have less than $250,000 in assets, you qualify for the simplified form that costs only $275.
With the 1023-EZ, most organizations receive approval in 2-4 weeks. The full 1023 can take 3-6 months. We'll help you determine which form you qualify for.
Yes! Once approved (and if you filed timely), deductibility is generally retroactive to your formation/incorporation date.
No problem! File within 27 months of formation to preserve retroactive status; filing later may create additional steps and can affect deductibility.
Plan for at least three directors, with a majority unrelated, and check your state's minimums.
Get your complete 501(c)(3) formation kit - templates, timeline, and 30-day email course.