Starting a 501c3 Charitable Organization

[reeses16 8]

Hi! I'm planning to start a 501c3 non-profit organization with my husband and one of my classmates. We've gathered much of the paper work and researched our options but I still have some remaining questions. If anyone has started a 501c3, any feedback would be appreciated.

I will try to be concise and number them to make it easier.

(1) What structure did you pick for your organization and why? We're considering LLC for the personal liability protection. But must LLC appear in the official title ("doing business as" name)?

(2) How long after forming your organization did you wait to apply for 501c3 status? Is it possible to register the organization as a business with the state, then apply for 501c3 immediately or do you have to do business for a year or so?

(3) Is your organization considered a public charity, what are the challenges and benefits? We're thinking we would be considered public. We plan on raising most of our money from the community and via grant writing.

(4) Did having your organization affect your personal taxes in any way, or were they filed completely separately?

(5) Is US citizenship a requirement for 501c3 status? My husband is not a US citizen; he is a legal permanent resident (green card holder). In the state of Washington, he is legally allowed to own/run a business. I haven't noticed any think about citizenship in the IRS 501c3 paperwork.

(6) After submitting your 501c3 application to the IRS, how long did it take you to get a ruling on your status?

(7) Do you have any other advice/ lessons learned to offer?

[desert_fox 32]

You need to incorporate as a non-profit with the Secretary of State in the state where you live. Im sure they are many other hoops you need to jump thru with the Atty Generals office etc.