Applying for 501(c)(3) status costs $275 to $600
The IRS charges a user fee to review an application for 501(c)(3) tax exemption. The full Form 1023 costs $600. Smaller groups that qualify for the short Form 1023-EZ pay $275. Both fees are paid through Pay.gov when you file.
501(c)(3) application fees
| Form 1023 user fee | $600 |
|---|---|
| Form 1023-EZ user fee | $275 |
| How to pay | Pay.gov, when you file |
| Difference between the two forms | $325 |
|---|
The IRS says these amounts can change and publishes the latest user fees on irs.gov. Sources: IRS, Form 1023 and 1023-EZ: Amount of user fee.
Is your quote fair?
Type the price you were quoted. We compare it to the usual 2026 range of $275 to $600.
What this price covers
The IRS fee is only one cost of starting a nonprofit. State filing fees and any help from a lawyer or accountant are extra.
What changes your price
- Which form. Only groups that meet the Form 1023-EZ rules can use the $275 form.
Ways to pay less
- Check the Form 1023-EZ eligibility worksheet before filing. Using the wrong form can delay your exemption.
How we got these numbers
Every fee on this page comes from the IRS website or an IRS form. Where we show a total, we only add up the IRS's own fees so you can see the full amount in one place. We do not add our own guesses, and tax preparer or lawyer fees are not included. Fees can change, so check irs.gov before you pay. We last checked on September 26, 2026.
Common questions
How much is Form 1023?
$600.
How much is Form 1023-EZ?
$275.
How do I pay?
Through Pay.gov when you file.
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