Last Updated: February 2026
Arkansas requires most charitable organizations to register with the Secretary of State before soliciting contributions in the state. However, several statutory exemptions apply. These exemptions are narrower than many organizations assume and typically require affirmative action to claim.
This page explains which organizations may qualify for exemption from Arkansas charitable solicitation registration and when registration may still be required.
For a broader overview of how charitable registration works nationally, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
When Registration Is Normally Required in Arkansas
A charitable organization must register before soliciting contributions in Arkansas unless a statutory exemption applies.
Registration generally applies to:
- Arkansas-based nonprofits
- Out-of-state nonprofits soliciting Arkansas residents
- Organizations using paid solicitors, fundraising counsel, or commercial co-venturers
- Online fundraising that reaches Arkansas donors
Organizations operating across multiple states should also review:
Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Guide
Arkansas Charitable Registration Exemptions
Unlike some states where exemptions apply automatically, Arkansas requires most exempt organizations to file an exemption verification form with the Secretary of State.
Exemption in Arkansas does not eliminate registration requirements in other states.
1. Small Organization Exemption ($25,000 Threshold)
An organization may qualify for exemption if:
- It does not intend to solicit and does not actually receive more than $25,000 in contributions during a calendar year, and
- All organizational functions, including fundraising, are conducted by volunteers.
Key considerations:
- The $25,000 limit applies to total contributions, not just Arkansas-based fundraising.
- If the organization exceeds the threshold, registration becomes required.
- Compensation tied to fundraising activity generally disqualifies this exemption.
For national nonprofits with online or growth-stage fundraising, this exemption is often short-lived.
Related guidance:
How Many States Do We Need to Register In?
2. Religious Organizations
Bona fide tax-exempt religious entities are exempt from registration.
This exemption generally applies to houses of worship and integrated religious bodies.
Separately incorporated ministries or religious-affiliated nonprofits operating independently should evaluate whether exemption applies based on structure and fundraising methods.
3. Educational Institutions
Accredited educational institutions and parent-teacher associations qualify for exemption.
The accreditation requirement is significant — not all education-related nonprofits qualify.
4. Political Candidates and Political Organizations
Candidates for federal, state, or local office are exempt.
Political parties and committees required to file financial disclosures with election authorities are also exempt.
This exemption does not apply to general charitable advocacy organizations.
5. Governmental Organizations
Federal, state, and local government entities — including their departments and instrumentalities — are exempt from charitable registration.
6. Nonprofit Hospitals
Nonprofit hospitals licensed in Arkansas or another state are exempt from registration.
7. Individuals Soliciting for Exempt Organizations
Individuals who solicit solely on behalf of an exempt organization are also exempt.
This does not extend to organizations that would otherwise be required to register.
8. Chapters and Affiliates of Registered Parent Organizations
A chapter, branch, or affiliate of a registered parent organization is not required to register separately if:
- The parent organization files a consolidated financial report or tax information form that includes the subordinate entity.
This structure can significantly reduce administrative burden when properly implemented.
What Arkansas Does Not Exempt
Arkansas does not provide blanket exemptions for:
- National nonprofits above the $25,000 threshold
- Organizations that compensate fundraising personnel
- Online-only fundraising organizations
- Federated campaign recipients unless otherwise qualifying
Because Arkansas requires filing to confirm exemption status in most cases, nonprofits should not assume exemption without formal verification.
Online Fundraising and Arkansas
Online fundraising campaigns targeting Arkansas residents may trigger registration requirements.
Organizations operating nationally should review:
- Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
- Where Nonprofits Must Register Based on Online Fundraising
Even modest Arkansas fundraising activity can eliminate small-charity exemption eligibility.
Governance and Risk Considerations
Boards and finance committees should ensure:
- Calendar-year contribution thresholds are monitored
- Volunteer-only requirements are documented if relying on exemption
- Consolidated reporting structures are evaluated where applicable
- Online fundraising expansion is reviewed before launch
Failure to properly register when required may expose the organization to enforcement action and reputational risk.
See:
What Happens If a Nonprofit Fails to Register?
Multi-State Context
Even if exempt in Arkansas, your organization may still be required to register in many other jurisdictions.
For a comprehensive view, review:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
Evaluating Arkansas Exemption Status
Because Arkansas requires affirmative exemption filings in most cases and applies a calendar-year contribution threshold, careful monitoring is essential — particularly for growing nonprofits.
If your organization is fundraising in Arkansas or reassessing its multi-state compliance footprint, you may schedule a consultation