Massachusetts Nonprofits
Registration, Tax Exemption, and Annual Report Filing Requirements
Massachusetts Nonprofits - A Guide to Registration and Tax Compliance
In order to start and operate a nonprofit organization successfully, it’s important that you have a clear understanding of the guidelines and requirements established by the respective state agency.
Here, you can find out how to start and register a nonprofit organization in Massachusetts, including obtaining tax-exempt status and the annual filing requirements, due dates, and penalties.
| Requirements |
Registration
|
Annual Filing
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| With the State of Massachusetts | With the Attorney General Office | Charity Annual Renewal | Annual Report | |
Required Forms |
Form PC & A copy of |
|||
Due Date |
Before establishing a Nonprofit entity |
Must register before conducting operations in the state | 4.5 months after the end of organizations accounting year | On or before November, 1st of each year |
Filing Fee |
$35 | $100 | $35 - $2000 | $15 |
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Start a Nonprofit in Massachusetts?
To start a nonprofit in the State of Massachusetts, you must follow these registration procedures.
Registration with the Secretary of the Commonwealth:
To register your non-profit organization in Massachusetts, you are required to file an Article of Organization with the state.
Typically, this submission should include the following information:
- Name of the corporation
- Purpose of the corporation
- Address and principal office of the corporation in massachusetts
- Fiscal year of the corporation
- Name and address of the resident agent
In addition to these details, you must pay the incorporation filing fee of $35.
Registration with the Massachusetts Attorney General Office:
Massachusetts law mandates that nonprofit corporations must file an initial charity registration form with the state to conduct operations in Massachusetts and pay a registration fee of $100.
*Note: Charities that need to solicit funds must obtain a Certificate of Solicitation before soliciting any contributions.
How do you obtain tax-exempt status from the State of Massachusetts?
To obtain the tax exemption from the state of Massachusetts, you must register with the Massachusetts Department of Revenue and submit a copy of your IRS determination letter.
To complete your application for exemption with the Massachusetts, you must register through MassTaxConnect.
What are the annual filing requirements for nonprofits in Massachusetts?
Form PC:
The state of Massachusetts mandates that nonprofit organizations renew their registration annually by submitting Form PC with the office of the attorney general along with a copy of IRS Form 990.
Annual Report:
In addition to the Form PC, Massachusetts law also requires nonprofit organizations to file an Annual Report each year with the secretary of the commonwealth.
When is the deadline for Charitable Organization Form PC and Annual Report?
Form PC:
The Form PC is due 4.5 months after the end of the organization’s accounting period. This means that if the organization follows the calendar year, the deadline for annual renewal is April 15.
Annual Report:
The due date to submit an annual report to the state of Massachusetts is on or before November 1st of each year.
Are there any penalties for failing to file an annual report?
Yes, if the nonprofit organization fails to file an annual report for 2 years, the division will send a notice. If the nonprofit does not file an annual report within 90 days after the notice is received, it will result in canceling the charter.
How do I file a Form PC and annual report form with the state of Massachusetts?
Form PC:
You can complete the Form PC and send it by mail to the address given below:
Office of the Attorney General,
One Ashburton Place,
Boston, MA 02108.
Annual Report:
Annual Reports can be filed either electronically or on paper with the state of Massachusetts.
- You can file returns electronically through the online portal provided by the Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
- You can also complete the annual report on paper and send it by mail to the address given below:
Secretary of the Commonwealth,
Att: Annual Report - AR180,
One Ashburton Place, Room 1717,
Boston, Massachusetts, 02108-1512.