Last Updated: February 2026
Nonprofits that solicit or receive charitable contributions from Oregon residents are generally required to register with the Oregon Department of Justice before beginning fundraising activities. Oregon’s process is relatively streamlined compared to many states, but annual financial reporting obligations still apply.
Organizations conducting nationwide fundraising should incorporate Oregon into their overall compliance calendar to avoid interruptions in solicitation authority.
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Explore all charitable solicitation registration requirements by state
At-a-Glance Overview
Regulating Agency
Oregon Department of Justice — Charitable Activities Section
Initial Registration Required
Yes, prior to soliciting or holding charitable assets in Oregon.
Registration Term
Approximately one year.
Registration Fee
No state filing fee for charitable organization registration.
Filing Method
Application submitted by mail or email.
Registered Agent Requirement
Not required for charitable registration.
Form
Form RF-C – Initial Form for Corporations
Form RF-T – Initial Form for For Trusts
Form CT-12 – Renewal Form
When Registration Is Required
Organizations must typically register if they:
- Solicit charitable contributions from Oregon residents
- Hold or manage charitable assets within the state
- Conduct fundraising campaigns that reach Oregon donors
Out-of-state nonprofits must register before beginning solicitation activities but do not automatically need to separately qualify under corporate law unless they maintain physical operations such as offices or employees in Oregon.
Initial Registration Process
Filing Agency
Oregon Department of Justice — Charitable Activities Section
Common Submission Components
Initial filings generally include:
- Formation documents
- Governing documents
- IRS determination letter
- List of officers, directors, trustees, and key personnel
- Professional fundraiser disclosures (if applicable)
An authorized organizational officer must sign the filing.
Exemptions
Oregon recognizes several exemption categories. Unlike many jurisdictions, there is not a broad exemption solely based on low contribution levels.
Examples of organizations commonly exempt include:
- Religious corporations operating exclusively for religious purposes
- Certain educational institutions that do not hold property in Oregon and solicit only alumni
- Mutual benefit organizations such as certain membership-based associations
- Government entities and specific trust arrangements
Some exempt organizations may still need to submit documentation confirming eligibility.
Nationwide charitable solicitation exemption guide
Annual Reporting Requirements
Oregon does not require a traditional annual “renewal” filing, but organizations must submit a financial report each year.
Annual Financial Report Due Date
Approximately four and a half months after the close of the organization’s fiscal year.
Extensions
An extension of up to 180 days may be requested through the Department of Justice.
Failure to submit the required report can result in loss of compliant status.
Financial Reporting & Audit Considerations
Oregon requires annual financial reporting but does not impose a single statewide audit mandate tied exclusively to the charitable registration filing.
Organizations fundraising nationally or operating at higher revenue levels often maintain audited or reviewed financial statements to meet requirements in other jurisdictions simultaneously and streamline annual reporting.
Estimated Processing & Planning Considerations
- Initial registration is generally straightforward when documentation is complete.
- Because Oregon does not charge a filing fee, it is frequently included early in multi-state expansion.
- Tracking the annual financial reporting deadline is the primary ongoing compliance responsibility.
Organizations managing many states often benefit from centralized tracking to ensure reporting is submitted consistently.
Additional Resources
Multi-State Fundraising Compliance Guide
Initial Filing Timing by State
Need Help Managing Oregon Compliance?
Ironwood Registrations assists nonprofits with coordinated multi-state registration, reporting calendars, and ongoing compliance support.