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Cost to start a nonprofit in Massachusetts

Filing nonprofit articles in Massachusetts costs $35. For a small charity that asks for donations, confirmed state and IRS formation costs come to about $410 in year one and $50 a year after that.

Last checked October 28, 2026 · core fees verified on official state pages

Massachusetts nonprofit fee table

ItemFeeHow oftenStatus
Articles of Organization (Chapter 180 non-profit)$35; +$6 expedite when fax/electronic.$35One timeverified source
State nonprofit reportDue: November 1 each year$15 (annual)annualverified source
Charity registrationMassachusetts Attorney General, Non-Profit Organizations/Public Charities DivisionRequired; fee tiered by revenueannualverified source
IRS Form 1023-EZ / Form 1023$275 / $600One timeverified source
IRS Form 990-N, 990-EZ or 990No IRS feeYearlyverified source
Registered agent$0 if a director serves; typically $100–150/yr paidYearlytypical market range
Charity registration fee tiers (gross support and revenue (Form PC))
  • <=100000$35
  • 100001-250000$70
  • 250001-500000$125
  • 500001-1000000$250
  • 1000001-10000000$500
  • 10000001-100000000$1,000
  • >100000000$2,000

Massachusetts nonprofit cost calculator

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Massachusetts nonprofit cost FAQ

How much does it cost to start a nonprofit in Massachusetts?

For a small charity (under $50,000 a year) that asks for donations, confirmed state and IRS fees in Massachusetts come to about $410 in year one, including the IRS Form 1023-EZ fee of $275, and about $50 a year after that.

What is the filing fee for nonprofit articles of incorporation in Massachusetts?

$35 (Articles of Organization (Chapter 180 non-profit)). $35; +$6 expedite when fax/electronic.

Does Massachusetts require charity registration?

Required; fee tiered by revenue. One-time $100 initial registration (M.G.L. c.12 § 8E); annual Form PC fee by gross support and revenue.

Does a Massachusetts nonprofit have to file a yearly report?

$15 (annual). Annual report $15 (+$3.50 expedite electronic).

Official sources

Checked October 28, 2026. Fees change; confirm on the official site before filing.

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