Last Updated: February 2026
Nonprofits that solicit contributions from Indiana residents are generally required to register with the Indiana Attorney General before beginning fundraising activity. Indiana maintains an annual registration and reporting system that applies to both in-state and out-of-state organizations conducting charitable solicitations.
If your organization is fundraising across multiple jurisdictions, coordinated registration management can help prevent compliance gaps and reduce administrative workload.
Managing registrations in multiple states? Contact Ironwood Registrations
Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state.
At-a-Glance Overview
Regulating Agency
Indiana Attorney General — Charitable Trust Section
Who Must Register
Most charitable organizations that solicit contributions from Indiana residents, including nonprofits headquartered outside the state.
Registration Timing
Registration is generally required prior to conducting fundraising activity.
Registration Term
Valid for one year.
Renewal Requirement
Annual renewal required.
Filing Method
Online filing is commonly used, though paper submissions may also be permitted.
Financial Reporting Required
Yes — financial documentation must accompany registration and renewal filings.
Who Must Register in Indiana
A nonprofit typically must register if it:
- Solicits donations from individuals or businesses located in Indiana
- Conducts fundraising events within the state
- Uses online fundraising platforms that reach Indiana donors
- Allows professional fundraisers or commercial co-venturers to solicit on its behalf
These requirements apply regardless of whether the organization has a physical presence in Indiana.
National nonprofits conducting digital or recurring fundraising campaigns should evaluate Indiana registration early in their compliance planning.
Initial Registration Process
Filing Agency
Indiana Attorney General — Charitable Trust Section
Typical Initial reporting includes:
- Organizational formation documents
- IRS determination letter
- Current IRS Form 990 (if available)
- List of officers and directors
- Financial statements or supporting financial information
An authorized representative of the organization must certify the filing.
Exemptions
Certain organizations may qualify for exemption from registration, including:
- Religious organizations
- Educational institutions
- Government entities
- Smaller organizations receiving limited contributions
Organizations seeking exemption generally must submit documentation demonstrating eligibility rather than assuming exempt status.
Nationwide comparison of exemption rules
Annual Renewal Requirements
Indiana registrations must be renewed each year.
Renewal Typically Includes
- Updated organizational information
- IRS Form 990 or equivalent financial documentation
- Disclosure of professional fundraising arrangements
Renewal deadlines are generally tied to the organization’s fiscal year and should be tracked carefully.
Nationwide renewal timing comparisons
Financial Reporting & Audit Considerations
Indiana applies tiered financial reporting expectations based on contribution levels.
Organizations with higher annual contributions may be required to submit independently prepared financial statements. At certain thresholds, reviewed or audited financial statements prepared by a CPA may be required.
Because Indiana is frequently included in national registration footprints, nonprofits fundraising across multiple states often coordinate their audit timeline with renewal deadlines to ensure complete filings.
Additional Compliance Considerations
Out-of-state nonprofits that maintain ongoing operational activity within Indiana may also need to qualify to do business with the Indiana Secretary of State. This corporate filing is separate from charitable solicitation registration.
Organizations using professional fundraisers must ensure those relationships are properly disclosed during registration and renewal.
Indiana in a Multi-State Fundraising Strategy
Indiana is commonly included in multi-state compliance programs due to its annual reporting requirements.
For broader planning guidance: Multi-state Fundraising Compliance Guide
Need Help Managing Indiana Registration?
Ironwood Registrations assists nonprofits fundraising across multiple jurisdictions with coordinated filings, annual renewals, and financial reporting management.
Or contact our team directly.