Last Updated: February 2026
California’s charitable registration framework differs from most states. Registration is triggered not by solicitation alone, but by receiving charitable assets in the state or conducting charitable activity there.
Unlike many jurisdictions, California does not provide a small-charity revenue exemption. Even organizations with modest fundraising activity may be required to register.
This page explains which organizations are exempt from California charitable solicitation registration and where risk commonly arises.
For a general overview of registration systems nationwide, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
When Registration Is Required in California
A nonprofit must register with the Attorney General’s Registry of Charities and Fundraisers within 30 days after initially receiving charitable assets in California.
Registration is typically required if the organization:
- Receives donations from California residents
- Holds charitable property in California
- Conducts charitable programs in California
- Maintains an office, employees, or board activity in California
- Solicits California donors through mail, digital campaigns, or events
Out-of-state nonprofits may also have separate corporate qualification and tax implications.
See:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements by State
California Charitable Registration Exemptions
California provides limited categorical exemptions. There is no automatic exemption based solely on low revenue.
Organizations do not file a separate exemption application. However, if a nonprofit believes it qualifies, it may request written confirmation from the Registry.
1. Religious Organizations
Nonprofit religious corporations and organizations holding property for religious purposes are exempt.
This generally includes:
- Churches and houses of worship
- Integrated religious corporations
- Religious entities holding property solely for religious use
However, religious organizations conducting substantial nonreligious charitable programs should evaluate whether registration may still be required.
2. Educational Institutions
Nonprofit educational institutions are exempt.
This category generally includes qualifying schools and institutions operating educational programs.
3. Nonprofit Hospitals
Licensed nonprofit hospitals are exempt from registration.
4. Licensed Health Care Service Plans
Certain regulated health care service plans are exempt.
5. Governmental Entities
Federal, state, and local government agencies are exempt.
6. Political Committees
Political committees reporting to the California Secretary of State are exempt.
This does not apply to general charitable advocacy organizations that are not formal political committees.
7. Cemetery Corporations
Cemetery corporations meeting statutory criteria are exempt.
What California Does Not Exempt
California does not provide:
- A small charity revenue exemption
- A volunteer-only exemption
- A low-donor exemption
- A general exemption for small out-of-state nonprofits
Even organizations raising minimal funds in California may be required to register if they receive charitable assets in the state.
This distinguishes California from states that provide $25,000 or similar thresholds.
Online Fundraising and California
California’s framework focuses on receipt of charitable assets and conducting business in the state.
Out-of-state nonprofits may be considered to be doing business in California if they:
- Actively solicit California residents
- Operate interactive donation platforms that receive California funds
- Conduct repeated and ongoing charitable activity in the state
Organizations with national digital campaigns should review:
Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
Where Nonprofits Must Register Based on Online Fundraising
Additional Compliance Considerations
Out-of-state nonprofits that register in California may also need to:
- Qualify to do business with the Secretary of State
- Appoint an agent for service of process
- Evaluate California franchise tax exposure
- Maintain annual renewal and financial reporting
California enforces its charitable registration laws actively, and noncompliance can result in significant financial and tax consequences.
See:
What Happens If a Nonprofit Fails to Register?
Multi-State Implications
An organization exempt in California may still be required to register in many other states.
Conversely, an organization exempt in other jurisdictions may still need to register in California due to its lack of a small-charity exemption.
For broader context:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
Multi-State Registration Complexity
Evaluating California Exemption Status
Because California does not provide revenue-based exemptions and applies a broad “doing business” standard, national nonprofits should evaluate exposure carefully — particularly when launching online campaigns or expanding programming into the state.
If your organization is assessing California registration or exemption status as part of a national compliance strategy, you may schedule a consultation