What Is Charitable Solicitation Registration?
Charitable solicitation registration is a state-level filing that gives a charity permission to ask that state's residents for donations. Think of it as a license to fundraise. About 40 states and the District of Columbia require it.
Why states require it
States regulate fundraising to protect donors from fraud and to make charities' finances public. Registration lets the state's charity regulator see who is soliciting, how much they raise, and how they spend it.
What the filing usually includes
- A registration form with your organization's details, officers, and fundraising methods
- Your IRS determination letter and governing documents
- Your most recent Form 990 and financial statements — some states require a CPA review or audit above certain revenue levels
- Information about any professional fundraisers or fundraising counsel you use
- A state filing fee, which varies from nothing to several hundred dollars
Who has to register?
Generally, any organization that solicits contributions from residents of a registration state — whether it's based there or not. Exemptions vary: some states exempt religious organizations, small organizations under a revenue threshold, or educational institutions, but many require you to file for the exemption.
It's an ongoing obligation
Registrations must be renewed — usually every year — with updated financials. Missing a renewal can make your organization unregistered even if it was approved before.
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