Cost to Start a Nonprofit in Washington (2026): Formation Costs & Yearly Fees

Q: How much does it cost to start a nonprofit in Washington?

For a small charity (under $50,000 a year) that asks for donations, confirmed state and IRS fees in Washington come to about $315–$375 in year one, including the IRS Form 1023-EZ fee of $275, and about $20–$60 a year after that.

Q: What is the filing fee for nonprofit articles of incorporation in Washington?

$80 (Articles of Incorporation – Domestic Nonprofit Corporation). $80 default; $40 with certification of gross revenue < $500,000 (plus online processing fee). Expedite +$100.

Q: Does Washington require charity registration?

Required; $60 to register, $40 to renew. $60 initial, $40 annual renewal, $50 late fee (WAC 434-120-042). Organizations raising < $50,000 with no paid officers/fundraisers are generally exempt (RCW 19.09.076 — not re-read this run).

Q: Does a Washington nonprofit have to file a yearly report?

$60 (annual). $60 default; $20 with certification of gross revenue < $500,000.

Washington nonprofit fee table

Item	Fee	How often	Status
Articles of Incorporation – Domestic Nonprofit Corporation$80 default; $40 with certification of gross revenue < $500,000 (plus online processing fee). Expedite +$100.	$80	One time	verified source
State nonprofit reportDue: End of anniversary month	$60 (annual)	annual	verified source
Charity registrationWashington Secretary of State, Charities ProgramExemption: < $50,000 with no paid officers or fundraisers (unverified detail)	Required; $60 to register, $40 to renew	annual	verified source
IRS Form 1023-EZ / Form 1023	$275 / $600	One time	verified source
IRS Form 990-N, 990-EZ or 990	No IRS fee	Yearly	verified source
Registered agent	$0 if a director serves; typically $100–150/yr paid	Yearly	typical market range

Washington nonprofit cost calculator

1About your nonprofit

State you'll incorporate in Expected yearly revenue Donations, grants and other income. This decides Form 1023-EZ vs 1023, which Form 990 you file, and tiered charity fees. We'll ask the public for donations (most states then require charity registration)

More options

Use a paid registered agent (typical $100–150/yr; a director with an in-state address can usually serve for free)

2Your formation costs

Washington nonprofit cost FAQ

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

For a small charity (under $50,000 a year) that asks for donations, confirmed state and IRS fees in Washington come to about $315–$375 in year one, including the IRS Form 1023-EZ fee of $275, and about $20–$60 a year after that.

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

$80 (Articles of Incorporation – Domestic Nonprofit Corporation). $80 default; $40 with certification of gross revenue < $500,000 (plus online processing fee). Expedite +$100.

Does Washington require charity registration?

Required; $60 to register, $40 to renew. $60 initial, $40 annual renewal, $50 late fee (WAC 434-120-042). Organizations raising < $50,000 with no paid officers/fundraisers are generally exempt (RCW 19.09.076 — not re-read this run).

Does a Washington nonprofit have to file a yearly report?

$60 (annual). $60 default; $20 with certification of gross revenue < $500,000.

Official sources

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

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