State Solicitation Registration Charities of America (SSRCA) provides information, education, and training for charities about state solicitation registrations and the resources available to help navigate the state solicitation registration process.
We award a Compliance Shield of Approval to recognize non-profits that are compliant with state solicitation requirements including current approvals. This shield can be displayed to donors to illustrate your effort and achievement.
State Solicitation Registration Charities of America recognizes non-profits that are compliant with state solicitation requirements including current approvals. We strongly encourage all non-profits to become educated about each state’s solicitation requirements. Where applicable, non-profits must adhere to these requirements by completing each state’s application process. SSCRA stands by state solicitation officials and their duty to protect the public against fraudulent charities. SSCRA’s Compliance Shield of Approval is awarded to charities that are working hand-in-hand with state solicitation offices to protect the public and defend the reputation of our charitable community.
Any charity who solicits contributions or support in a state that requires registration must register in that state. What constitutes âsolicitationâ is different in every state but many states have broad interpretations so to be prudent it is critical to maintain proper compliance.
There are currently 39 states and the District of Columbia that require registration. There are also eight additional states that may require a Certificate of Authority. Four states do not currently require any type of registration.
No. After the Initial registration most states will require a renewal registration or at a minimum an annual report each year.
Yes. This is different for each state but can include but not limited to monetary fines, civil and criminal penalties, loss of solicitation privileges, officers and board members can be also be liable for non-compliance.
Possibly. Each state has different qualifications for exemption and those can change at any time. In many states, schools, hospitals and religious organizations may be exempt as well as organizations that have gross income of less than $25,000. However, a number of states require the organization to apply or exemption by completing forms and providing some additional documentation.
The registration fees vary by state and type of organization. Some fees are based on income as well as a financial audit prepared by an accountant is required in most states. The general range of state fees for initial nationwide registrations is between $1,700 – $3,600 but could be more for very large non-profits.
There are some jurisdictions that require an organization that solicits in the state and does not have a local office to have a registered agent with a local address. The registered agent is a legal representative who can receive official documents on behalf of the organization.
Use our E-SSISTANT – State Information portal for Attorney General Charity Directory and the Secretary of State Corporate Directory listed by state.
