Last Updated: February 2026
Charitable organizations that solicit contributions in Wisconsin are generally required to register with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions before engaging in fundraising activity in the state.
Wisconsin provides several statutory exemptions. However, exemption eligibility depends on revenue thresholds, organizational structure, and whether professional fundraisers are involved.
This page explains who qualifies for exemption from Wisconsin charitable solicitation registration and when registration is required.
For a national overview of charitable registration systems, see:
How Charitable Registration Works
When Registration Is Required in Wisconsin
A charitable organization must register in Wisconsin if it:
- Solicits charitable contributions in Wisconsin; or
- Has contributions solicited on its behalf in Wisconsin.
Registration must generally be completed before solicitation and must be renewed annually.
Out-of-state nonprofits are not exempt solely because they are incorporated elsewhere.
For broader context:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Requirements by State
Wisconsin Charitable Registration Exemptions
Wisconsin provides categorical exemptions and a limited small-organization exemption.
Organizations claiming exemption may be required to file documentation confirming eligibility.
1. Small Organization Exemption ($25,000 Threshold)
An organization may qualify for exemption if:
- It does not receive more than $25,000 in contributions during a fiscal year; and
- It does not use professional fundraisers.
Key considerations:
- The $25,000 threshold applies to total contributions, not solely Wisconsin-based donations.
- If contributions exceed the threshold, registration becomes required.
- Engagement of compensated fundraising personnel generally eliminates eligibility.
Because the threshold is modest, many regional and national nonprofits exceed it quickly.
For planning context:
How Many States Must Nonprofits Register In?
2. Religious Organizations
Certain religious organizations are exempt from registration.
This generally includes churches and religious bodies operated primarily for religious purposes.
Separately incorporated affiliates should independently evaluate exemption eligibility.
3. Educational Institutions
Accredited educational institutions may qualify for exemption.
Affiliated foundations or supporting organizations may not automatically qualify and should independently assess registration obligations.
4. Governmental Entities
Federal, state, and local governmental entities are exempt from charitable registration requirements.
5. Political Organizations
Political candidates and political committees required to file campaign finance disclosures are exempt.
This exemption does not extend to charitable advocacy organizations that are not formal political committees.
6. Fraternal and Membership Organizations
Certain fraternal, benevolent, or membership organizations that solicit solely from members may qualify for exemption.
Public-facing solicitations generally trigger registration requirements.
Audit and Financial Reporting Considerations
Registered charities in Wisconsin must renew annually and submit required financial documentation.
Audit or review requirements apply at higher revenue levels and should be coordinated with Form 990 preparation and independent CPA engagements.
For renewal timing:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Renewal Deadlines by State
Online Fundraising and Wisconsin
If your nonprofit:
- Accepts online donations from Wisconsin residents,
- Conducts digital campaigns targeting Wisconsin, or
- Uses national donation platforms that generate Wisconsin contributions,
registration is generally required unless a clear exemption applies.
Online fundraising frequently creates multi-state exposure.
For digital compliance guidance:
Online Fundraising & Charleston Principles
Where Nonprofits Must Register Based on Online Fundraising
What Wisconsin Does Not Exempt
Wisconsin does not provide:
- A blanket exemption for all 501(c)(3) organizations
- An exemption solely because the organization is headquartered outside Wisconsin
- A broad exemption for organizations exceeding the $25,000 threshold
Most organizations conducting public fundraising in Wisconsin must register.
For related risk considerations:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Mistakes
Multi-State Planning Context
An organization exempt in Wisconsin may still be required to register in neighboring states such as Illinois, Minnesota, or Michigan.
Conversely, organizations exempt elsewhere may exceed Wisconsin’s threshold and trigger registration here.
For broader exemption strategy guidance:
Charitable Solicitation Registration Exemptions
If your organization is evaluating Wisconsin exemption eligibility as part of a national fundraising strategy: