Last Updated: February 2026
Nonprofits that solicit contributions from Kansas residents are generally required to register with the Kansas Secretary of State before beginning fundraising activity. Kansas maintains both an initial registration requirement and ongoing annual reporting obligations that apply to in-state and out-of-state organizations conducting charitable solicitations.
If your organization is fundraising nationally, including Kansas early in your compliance planning can help prevent delays or administrative issues.
Managing registrations in multiple states? Contact Ironwood Registrations
Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state
At-a-Glance Overview
Regulating Agency
Kansas Secretary of State — Charitable Organizations Division
Who Must Register
Most charitable organizations that solicit contributions from Kansas residents, including organizations headquartered outside the state.
Registration Timing
Registration must be completed prior to conducting charitable solicitations.
Registration Term
Valid for one year.
Renewal Requirement
Annual renewal and financial reporting required.
Filing Method
Filings are typically submitted by mail or online through the Secretary of State’s system.
Financial Reporting Required
Yes — financial documentation must be included with annual reporting.
Who Must Register in Kansas
Registration is generally required if a nonprofit:
- Solicits contributions from Kansas residents
- Conducts fundraising campaigns or events within the state
- Uses online fundraising that reaches Kansas donors
- Engages professional fundraisers or commercial co-venturers
These requirements apply regardless of whether the organization has a physical presence in Kansas.
Organizations running national digital campaigns or recurring donor programs should evaluate Kansas registration requirements early in their compliance process.
Initial Registration Process
Filing Agency
Kansas Secretary of State — Charitable Organizations Division
Typical Initial Filing Includes
- Organizational formation documents
- IRS determination letter
- Current IRS Form 990 (if available)
- List of officers and directors
- Financial information regarding contributions and expenses
An authorized officer or representative must certify the filing.
Exemptions
Certain organizations may qualify for exemption from registration, including:
- Religious organizations
- Educational institutions
- Government entities
- Smaller organizations that meet limited fundraising thresholds
Organizations seeking exemption generally must submit documentation supporting eligibility rather than assuming exempt status automatically.
Nationwide comparison of exemption eligibility
Annual Renewal Requirements
Kansas registrations must be renewed annually.
Renewal Typically Includes
- Updated organizational information
- IRS Form 990 or equivalent financial documentation
- Disclosure of fundraising relationships
The annual filing is generally due several months after the close of the organization’s fiscal year.
Nationwide renewal timing comparisons
Financial Reporting & Audit Considerations
Kansas applies escalating financial reporting requirements based on contribution levels.
Organizations above certain revenue thresholds may be required to submit independently prepared financial statements, including audited financials prepared by a CPA once contribution levels exceed specified limits.
Because these requirements often coincide with other states’ reporting thresholds, nonprofits fundraising nationally frequently coordinate audit timing with their Kansas annual filing schedule.
Additional Compliance Considerations
Out-of-state nonprofits conducting ongoing operational activity in Kansas may also need to qualify to do business with the Kansas Secretary of State. This corporate qualification requirement is separate from charitable solicitation registration.
Organizations using professional fundraisers must ensure those relationships are properly disclosed during registration and renewal.
Kansas in a Multi-State Fundraising Strategy
Kansas is commonly included in multi-state registration programs due to its annual reporting obligations.
For broader planning guidance:
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/multi-state-fundraising-compliance-guide/
Need Help Managing Kansas Registration?
Ironwood Registrations assists nonprofits fundraising across multiple jurisdictions with coordinated initial filings, annual renewals, and financial reporting management.
Schedule a consultation:
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/schedule-consultation/
Or contact our team directly:
https://www.ironwoodregistrations.com/contact-us/