Hi momof3 --
Two different avenues for you if going PTO and getting insured/nonprofit/etc. on your own:
1. Completely on your own. If you continue to use this site, you'll defitely get the guidance you need (piecemeal: JHB's insight here, someone else's there)to walk you through the steps. Lots of folks have done it that way. It's not all that tricky.
Done this way, the best liability insurance rate I've seen is about $400 (depends on state and broker and other factors).
2. Utilize the services of the National PTO Network
(LINK to NPN)
.
While the NPN has great benefits for all groups, many newly forming groups find it especially beneficial because of the first Expert Guide, called "PTO Start-Up." That Guide walks you step-by-step all the way through the process, including exactly how to answer all the questions on the IRS Form 1023.
NPN membership is $179 per year per group and includes all kinds of features and benefits that you can read about at the above link.
Another NPN advantage is access to an NPN-only insurance plan. Liability insurance for NPN groups is $235.
Hope this helps. You can order an NPn brochure at the NPN site.
Tim