Just starting? Here are some suggestions:

1. Choose a name: Name the church what you want it to be. Check with your state authorities concerning  availability of the name you want to use. 

2. Articles of incorporation must be filed in your state of residence.

3. Application for IRS 501 (c) 3 tax exemption should be filed.

4. Apply for a state tax exemption: Only a few states require a separate application, others will require confirmation of your IRS approval. 

5. Adopt your New Testament based Apostolic By-Laws:

6. Appoint your Local Presbytery: Many states allow as few a one presbyter.

7. Hold a meeting of the Presbytery: At your first meeting adopt the Apostolic By-Laws, select officers and record the receipt of federal and state tax exemptions. Minutes of the first meeting should be recorded for your non-profit records.

8. Check with local authorities: Obtain any required licenses and permits from state and local governments.

Whether starting a church or already leading one the first step to assuring the success of the ministry is by having a sound biblically based, New Testament based set of By-Laws.