Part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series. It is design to provide practical guidance on charitable solicitation registration and multi-state fundraising compliance.
Video Overview:
Many nonprofits assume that once they receive federal tax-exempt status, they can begin fundraising anywhere without additional requirements. However, Michigan requires nonprofits to register before soliciting donations from its residents, even if the organization is based elsewhere.
In this video, we explain how charitable solicitation registration works in Michigan, including who must register, what types of fundraising activities trigger requirements, and how the initial filing process is completed. We also cover the role of the Michigan Department of Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Section and the state’s financial reporting requirements.
Because Michigan includes financial reporting thresholds that may require additional documentation for larger organizations, understanding these rules is especially important for growing nonprofits. This overview provides practical guidance to help organizations evaluate their obligations and remain compliant.
This video explains Michigan charitable solicitation registration requirements, including who must register, how to file, and how financial reporting requirements impact compliance.
This video is part of the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series, which explains charitable solicitation registration and nonprofit fundraising compliance requirements across the United States.
What This Video Covers
- Overview of Michigan charitable solicitation laws
- Role of the Michigan Department of Attorney General (Charitable Trust Section)
- Who must register, including out-of-state nonprofits
- Initial registration process and required documentation
- Annual reporting and renewal requirements
Who This Video Is For
- Executive directors launching fundraising expansion
- Development teams building online campaigns
- Finance and compliance staff overseeing registrations
- Boards evaluating regulatory risk
- Organizations expanding fundraising beyond their home state
Video Summary
Michigan regulates charitable solicitation through the Department of Attorney General, specifically within the Charitable Trust Section. This office oversees charitable organizations that solicit donations from Michigan residents and maintains a registry of those organizations. These regulations are designed to promote transparency and ensure that nonprofits properly report their fundraising activities.
Most nonprofits must register in Michigan before soliciting charitable contributions from residents of the state. This requirement applies to organizations located within Michigan as well as those based in other states. If a nonprofit is requesting donations from Michigan residents, whether through online, digital, or traditional fundraising methods, registration is typically required before those activities begin.
A wide range of fundraising activities can trigger registration requirements. These include donation requests through a nonprofit’s website, email campaigns, social media appeals, direct mail solicitations, telephone fundraising, and events promoted to Michigan donors. Even organizations without a physical presence in Michigan may still be required to register if their fundraising efforts reach donors in the state.
To complete the initial registration, nonprofits must file with the Michigan Attorney General’s Charitable Trust Section. This filing typically includes formation documents, an IRS determination letter, a list of officers and directors, and financial information about the organization’s activities. Most organizations must also submit a copy of their most recent IRS Form 990 as part of the registration process.
Once registered, nonprofits must maintain compliance through annual reporting filings. These filings generally include updated financial information, IRS Form 990 data, and organizational updates. Submitting these reports on time is essential for maintaining good standing with the state.
Michigan may also require additional financial reporting depending on the amount of charitable contributions an organization receives. Larger organizations may need to submit audited financial statements or additional disclosures. These requirements are intended to provide greater transparency for organizations that raise significant funds from the public.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt from Michigan’s requirements. Even without a physical presence in the state, organizations must register if their fundraising activities reach Michigan residents. Charitable solicitation registration is separate from corporate registration requirements, which depend on whether the nonprofit conducts business activities within the state.
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About the Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series
The Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Series is an educational video series explaining charitable solicitation registration, multi-state fundraising compliance, and related nonprofit regulatory requirements. Each video addresses a specific compliance question commonly faced by nonprofit executives, development teams, and finance leaders.
Full Video Transcript
FAQs
Do nonprofits need to register in Michigan before fundraising?
Yes. Most nonprofits must register with the Michigan Department of Attorney General before soliciting donations from Michigan residents.
Does online fundraising trigger Michigan registration requirements?
Yes. Online fundraising—including websites, email campaigns, and social media—can trigger registration if Michigan residents are being solicited.
Do out-of-state nonprofits need to register in Michigan?
Yes. Nonprofits located outside Michigan must register if they solicit donations from Michigan residents.
Who regulates charitable solicitation in Michigan?
The Michigan Department of Attorney General, through the Charitable Trust Section, oversees charitable solicitation registration.
What financial reporting requirements apply in Michigan?
Depending on fundraising levels, nonprofits may be required to submit additional financial disclosures or audited financial statements.
Are there exemptions from Michigan registration requirements?
Yes. Certain religious organizations, advocacy groups, and small charities may qualify, though documentation or notice requirements may apply.
Related Compliance Videos
- What Is Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Which States Require Charitable Solicitation Registration?
- Charitable Solicitation Registration Explained for Nonprofits
- Do Small Nonprofits Need to Register in Every State?
Related Compliance Resources
- Michigan Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
- Michigan Fundraising Compliance Guide
- Michigan Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
Need Help Evaluating Your Registration Requirements?
If your organization is evaluating fundraising expansion or navigating multi-state registration requirements, you may schedule a consultation to discuss your situation.