Nonprofit Services

Information on government requirements specific to nonprofit organizations, and resources that may be available to assist you. For your convenience, we have compiled a few Internet resources that you may want to review as you begin your own research. This page is not intended to substitute for professional, legal or financial advice. As with any business venture, please consult your attorney or financial professional for advice.

Review Oregon Nonprofit Law
The Oregon Department of Justice provides current Oregon statutes and administrative rules specific to nonprofit organizations.

Nonprofit Business Wizard
Use this Business Wizard fast path to show general referrals specific to nonprofit corporations. If you need more specific information, please try our full Business Wizard interview.

Register with the Secretary of State, Corporation Division
Nonprofit organizations formed as a corporation must register and renew annually with the Secretary of State, Corporation Division. To register a new nonprofit organization use Articles of Incorporation form, or register online for faster service. Also, visit Starting a Business for general information on requirements for new businesses, including nonprofit corporations.

Department of Justice, Charitable Activities Section
The Department of Justice, Charitable Activities Section regulates charitable activities in Oregon, including nonprofit corporations organized for a public-benefit . A public benefit nonprofit is required to register with the Department of Justice. The Department of Justice also provides two useful guides for anyone involved with a nonprofit organization or charity in Oregon "Starting and Maintaining a Charity in Oregon" and "A Guide to Non-Profit Board Service".

Oregon Department of Justice, Charitable Activities Section
1515 SW 5th Avenue, Suite 410
Portland, OR 97201

Contact by phone: (971) 673-1880
Contact by email: charitable.activities@doj.state.or.us

501(c)(3) Federal Income Tax Exemption www.irs.gov/charities/index.html
Forming a nonprofit organization does not guarantee tax-exempt status. The Internal Revenue Service makes determinations regarding the federal tax-exempt status of nonprofit organizations. To obtain tax-exempt status you must apply to the Internal Revenue Service TE/GE Division. If you intend to apply for IRS federal tax exemption as a charitable organization, your articles of incorporation must contain a required purpose clause and dissolution of assets provision.

Valuable information on 501(c)(3) qualifications, including sample articles of incorporation is available on the IRS website at www.irs.gov. Click the "Charities and Nonprofits" link and then the Life Cycle of a Public Charity link. Contact IRS Customer Service toll-free at 1-877-829-5500.

Do you need help from the IRS to restore tax-exempt status?

Oregon Tax Information www.oregon.gov/DOR
The Oregon Department of Revenue provides the publication "Information for Tax Exempt Organizations"; that provides information on Income, Employment, and Property tax issues. Contact the Oregon Department of Revenue at 503-378-4988 or toll-free in Oregon at 1-800-356-4222.

Nonprofit Association of Oregon (NAO) www.nonprofitoregon.org
The Nonprofit Association of Oregon (NAO), formerly known as TACS, is a statewide network of nonprofits, foundations, business partners, and individuals dedicated to supporting Oregon’s nonprofit sector. Serves as a resource for nonprofit organizations and a central source of information about the nonprofit sector. Connects nonprofits of all sizes, missions, and geographic locations. Offers programs and services that enhance the capacity of nonprofits to fulfill their essential missions. Has over 30 years experience providing consulting and training to nonprofit leaders, staff, and volunteers.

NAO Programs & Services: Trainings, workshops, webinars, and conferences Organizational development consulting Executive Transition Services Information and resources on nonprofit practices Public policy monitoring, reporting and advocacy Membership benefits and discounts.

Visit www.nonprofitoregon.org or contact the nonprofit helpline at (503) 233-9240 or (888) 206-3076 toll free, or by email at info@nonprofitoregon.org.

Additional Resources for Nonprofits

Better Business Bureau, Wise Giving Alliance www.give.org
The BBB Wise Giving Alliance offers guidance to donors on making informed giving decisions through our charity evaluations, various "tips" publications, and publishes the quarterly Better Business Bureau Wise Giving Guide.

BoardSource www.boardsource.org
Dedicated to building stronger nonprofit boards of directors.

GuideStar www.guidestar.org
The national database of nonprofit organizations.

Internet Nonprofit Center www.mapfornonprofits.org
Information for and about nonprofit organizations.

Small Business Administration www.sba.gov
Nonprofit organizations are both a recipient of SBA services and a partner with the SBA in serving the small business community.

USA.gov for Nonprofits www.usa.gov/Business/Nonprofit
Official information and services from the U.S. government.