If you plan to do this as a non-profit - you should file for a 501(c)3 with the IRS. This is a bit time consuming but the just calling yourself a non-profit will not excluded you from being taxed like a for-profit business unless you are designated a 501(c)3. Plus, as a 501(c)3 - if you raise money, your donors might be able to receive a tax deduction - but, only if you are a 501(c)3. You should always get a tax id number - they are easy to get - can be done simply on the IRS's website. The reason is to keep your personal transactions separate from your business.

mrsmorris, To start a business, you can follow 10 Steps for Starting a Business. These should walk you through what you need to do. If you are starting a business you will need some type of tax id. A SSN does count as a tax ID. Read this article from the IRS about Do You Need an EIN? If you have any additional questions, please ask them here. JimD