What are the options for non-americans to set up and operate a non-profit in the US?
<p>Could it be done if you are not a citizen of the US?</p>

<p><strong>Yes, non-citizens can set up non-profits.</strong></p>
<p>Because non-profits are tax exempt, to become a non-profit, you have to apply to the IRS.</p>
<p><strong>Before you can apply to the IRS for non-profit status,</strong> need to legally form your organization. Usually, that means incorporating your organization, although it can also be a trust or an association. In the US, forming organizations is controlled by states. You should double-check for your state, but as far as I can tell, all states allow non-citizens to form and run corporations.</p>
<p><strong>After you've set up your organization,</strong> you can apply to the IRS for non-profit status. They will check your plans and decide whether you qualify. Because a 501(c)(3) does not pay taxes, the IRS imposes additional requirements.</p>
<p><strong>Where to go for more information:</strong></p>
<p>Because business organizations are formed under state law, you'll need to check the requirements for your state. If you are lucky, your state government has a helpful website. If not, searching for your state's name and &quot;how to incorporate&quot; should give you plenty of information.</p>
<p>USA.gov has a nice overview of the application process <a href="https://www.usa.gov/start-nonprofit" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>. The IRS has several publications and websites that you might find helpful: <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4220.pdf" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p557.pdf" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p4221pc.pdf" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>, and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/charities-non-profits/application-process" rel="nofollow noreferrer">here</a>. These cover everything from the general rules to nuts-and-bolts details about which forms to use.</p>

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