Last Updated: February 2026
Organizations that solicit charitable contributions in New Hampshire are generally required to register with the state before engaging in ongoing or targeted fundraising activities. The state’s compliance structure is somewhat different from many jurisdictions because the initial registration is followed by an annual financial reporting obligation rather than a traditional annual renewal filing.
For nonprofits fundraising nationally, New Hampshire’s reporting deadline should be incorporated into the organization’s multi-state compliance calendar.
Managing registrations across multiple states? Contact Ironwood Registrations
Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state
At-a-Glance Overview
Regulating Agency
New Hampshire Department of Justice — Charitable Trusts Unit
Initial Registration Required
Yes, unless a qualifying exemption applies.
Annual Renewal Filing
No traditional renewal form.
Annual Financial Report
Required each year.
Annual Report Due Date
Approximately 4½ months after the end of the organization’s fiscal year.
Extension Availability
Extension available upon request.
Registration Fee
Annual reporting fee applies.
When Registration Is Required
A nonprofit must generally register if it:
- Actively solicits contributions from New Hampshire residents
- Conducts targeted or sustained fundraising activity within the state
- Receives recurring or significant donations from New Hampshire donors
Organizations that have only minimal contact with the state and do not specifically target New Hampshire donors may not be required to file, but this is a fact-specific determination.
Initial Registration Process
Initial registration is filed with the Charitable Trusts Unit of the Department of Justice.
Typical submission elements include:
- Organizational formation documents
- IRS determination letter
- Current financial information or IRS Form 990
- Officer and director information
The filing must be signed by an authorized officer or trustee. Electronic submission is generally permitted.
Estimated Processing Timeline
Processing times vary depending on completeness of the filing but are commonly measured in several weeks.
Financial Reporting Requirements
New Hampshire requires an annual financial report from registered charities.
Organizations generally submit:
- IRS Form 990 or equivalent financial information
- Annual report forms required by the Charitable Trusts Unit
- Additional disclosures related to governance or transactions where applicable
Organizations with very small combined revenue and investment levels may qualify to request a temporary suspension from the annual reporting requirement if they meet certain conditions.
Exemption Overview
Common exemptions include:
- Religious organizations and certain affiliated entities
- Governmental organizations
- Organizations with only minimal fundraising activity in the state
Even when exempt, organizations should maintain documentation supporting their eligibility.
Nationwide comparison of exemption eligibility
Annual Reporting Timeline
Registered organizations must submit their annual financial report each year to maintain compliance.
- Due Date: Approximately four and a half months after fiscal year end
- Extension: Available if requested prior to the filing deadline
- Late Fees: Generally not imposed if extension procedures are followed
Nationwide comparison of filing timelines
New Hampshire in a Multi-State Compliance Strategy
Because New Hampshire relies on annual financial reporting rather than a renewal registration, it is often tracked separately from anniversary-based states. Coordinating Form 990 completion with New Hampshire’s reporting timeline can reduce administrative risk.
For broader planning guidance: Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Guide
Need Help Coordinating New Hampshire and Multi-State Filings?
Ironwood Registrations works with nonprofits to:
- Evaluate where registration is required
- Coordinate multi-state filings
- Track annual reporting deadlines
- Align financial documentation across jurisdictions
Or contact our team directly: