Last Updated: February 2026
Nonprofits that solicit charitable contributions from Missouri residents are generally required to register with the Missouri Attorney General before beginning fundraising activities. Missouri maintains ongoing annual reporting obligations and financial documentation thresholds that can impact mid-sized and nationally fundraising organizations.
Because Missouri’s financial reporting requirements are triggered at moderate contribution levels, it is commonly included early in multi-state compliance planning.
Managing registrations in multiple states? Contact Ironwood Registrations
Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state.
At-a-Glance Overview
Regulating Agency
Missouri Attorney General — Consumer Protection Section (Charitable Organizations)
Initial Registration Required
Yes, unless a qualifying exemption applies.
Registration Term
Registration remains active with annual reporting.
Annual Renewal Required
Yes — through submission of annual report.
Renewal Due Date
Generally tied to the organization’s fiscal year end (typically several months after close).
Financial Reporting Required
Yes, with documentation level based on contribution totals.
Filing Method
Filings may be submitted electronically or by mail.
Who Must Register in Missouri
A charitable organization is typically required to register if it:
- Solicits donations from Missouri residents
- Conducts online or direct mail fundraising reaching donors located in the state
- Holds fundraising events in Missouri
- Uses professional fundraisers or commercial co-venturers
These requirements apply regardless of whether the organization is physically located in Missouri.
Out-of-state nonprofits that maintain ongoing operational activity within Missouri may also need to qualify separately with the Secretary of State.
Initial Registration Process
Initial registration is filed with the Missouri Attorney General’s charitable organizations unit.
Organizations should expect to submit:
- Formation documents
- Governing documents
- IRS determination letter
- Most recent IRS Form 990 (or financial information if newly formed)
- Lists of officers and directors
- Professional fundraiser contracts, if applicable
The filing must be signed by an authorized officer or representative.
Financial Reporting & Audit Thresholds
Missouri applies financial documentation requirements based on total annual charitable contributions:
- $300,000 to $500,000 in contributions: CPA-reviewed financial statements required
- Over $500,000 in contributions: Audited financial statements prepared by an independent CPA required
Organizations below these thresholds generally submit their IRS Form 990 or equivalent financial information.
Because Missouri’s audit threshold is lower than many states, it often becomes the driver for audit preparation timing within multi-state compliance programs.
Exemption Overview
Missouri provides several exemption categories, including:
- Religious organizations and affiliated entities
- Educational institutions
- Government agencies
- Certain membership organizations soliciting only within their membership
- Organizations receiving limited public contributions
Even when exempt, organizations should confirm eligibility and maintain documentation supporting their status.
Nationwide comparison of exemption rules
Annual Reporting Requirements
Registered charities must submit an annual report to maintain active status.
Typical annual reporting includes:
- Updated organizational information
- IRS Form 990 or financial documentation
- Audited or reviewed financial statements when required by contribution level
Deadlines are generally tied to the organization’s fiscal year end and should be tracked carefully.
Nationwide charitable solicitation renewal deadlines
Missouri in a Multi-State Compliance Strategy
Missouri’s moderate audit threshold and ongoing annual reporting requirements make it a state that benefits from centralized compliance management.
Organizations fundraising nationally often coordinate Missouri filings alongside other states with similar financial reporting requirements to reduce administrative burden and prevent lapses.
For broader planning guidance: Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Guide
Need Help Managing Missouri Registration?
Ironwood Registrations assists nonprofits with coordinated multi-state charitable solicitation filings, renewal tracking, and financial documentation management.
Or contact our team directly.